21 October 2016
 Categories: , Blog

If you've reached the final stages of your bathroom remodel project, you're probably preparing to paint the walls so you can accessorize. However, there are a few planning tips that will help you get the most out of your bathroom paint job. Here are the 5 top prepping tips to know before you dip your brushes.

Prep the Walls. Even new drywall can prove an inadequate painting surface if it has blemishes. For this reason, go over the drywall before you start painting to ensure even, sharp corners and an even texture on the walls. There should be a nice, clear sheen without overlap marks or shadows. 

Know Your Lighting. Paint colors can be difficult to work with if there's inadequate or unstable lighting sources. Look for areas in the bath that get natural shadows or variation in sunlight as the day progresses. You may want to adjust your color choices on these walls to accommodate such changes or switch between a glossy or matte finish. If there's not a lot of natural lighting, consider using a lighter mixture of paint colors (such as a 75% mix) to make things seem more airy. 

Ensure Moisture Protection. Your remodeling contractor should have included sufficient ventilation to meet standard regulations, but your paint will still be subject to a lot of water and humidity. So, you may want to consider a special paint that has additional mold-inhibiting agents or a better surface designed to resist moisture. Talk with your painting contractor to determine if such an added measure would be right for your bathroom. 

Employ Tricks. If your bathroom isn't quite as large and luxurious as you would like, there's nothing wrong with using some tried and true painting tricks to make it better. Choosing a single neutral color or lighter wall colors, for example, can help the room feel larger. Blending in the tile and walls colors is another easy trick you can use when choosing your palette. Stripes can help you focus on specific ways to enlarge the room visually; horizontal stripes look wider, while vertical stripes look taller.

Choose an Accent Wall. An easy way to add visual interest to the bathroom is to give it a focal point. An accent wall -- a wall that is painted a different (often bold) color or covered with a different wallpaper or tile -- gets this job done with little extra work. Although a small or narrow wall is often the chosen accent wall, you can use a large wall if your bathroom is big. If you are using solely an accent color to create your focal point, complement it with something artistic or visually surprising -- such as wall art, a unique mirror, or an eclectic pendant lamp. 

By planning your paint job thoroughly before you begin, you can help ensure a smooth and beautiful end to your bathroom remodel. For more information, contact a painting service like Above Average Painting & Drywall.