Painting a room may seem intimidating to first-timers, but having the right know-how and supplies make a big difference.  Here at 21st Century Paints , we carry the entire catalog of high-quality Benjamin Moore paint products. Our painting pros have put together a list of their favorite painting hacks for a finish that will make every DIY job look professional.

It may seem tedious, but trust us, you’ll thank yourself for taking the time to properly prep your surface. This includes a thorough cleaning and sanding with 120-grit sandpaper to ensure you rid the wall of any uneven texture that can cause paint to chip down the road. Sanding is especially necessary if you are trying to paint over a high-gloss or oil-based paint, so properly prepping your surfaces are paramount to getting a clean and smooth finish.

Using a premium paint, like Benjamin Moore AURA® Interior Paint, will save you time and money. Quality paint applies more smoothly and evenly and delivers a more authentic color. The better your paint, the fewer coats and the less hassle you will have to deal with. Benjamin Moore paint is easier to clean and much more durable than bargain brands.

Using an extension pole gives you greater leverage and reach, reducing the strain on your arms and back. You will be able to get many parts of your home with less strain and without having to move ladders or step stools everywhere. An extension pole allows you to take your time while painting, ensuring a more professional-looking result. Plus, it will enable you to use consistent pressure to avoid thick paint spots on the walls and provide the paint dries evenly.

Like quality paint, premium-quality supplies are another vital component of great paint jobs. If you’re not planning to paint again soon, invest in the best roller. Lower-quality rollers will shed fuzz and lint while you’re painting, ruining the finish. You also risk the core of your roller beginning to dissolve as it comes in contact with the paint, making it slide off the frame.

A tapered brush is the best tool for cutting in and painting trim. We recommend holding the brush between your fingers, like how you have chopsticks, right where the metal and bristles meet. This gives you much better control over the brush than wrapping your palm around the handle. Avoid dipping more than the first ⅓ of the brush into your paint.

Consistency is essential when you’re painting, including the technique and texture of your paint. If you need to step away briefly, place your paint tray in a large plastic bag to keep the top portion of the roller from drying out. Partially dried paint will leave unsightly marks and mar your finish.

The perfect time to remove the painter’s tape is just before the paint is dry. If any color has made it under the edge of the tape, it will be easier to fix. Also, leaving the tape on for too long after drying can cause the edge of the tape to lift off some of your new paint.

Not that you know how to paint like a pro, stop by our store in Holland, OH, to see our selection of premium interior and exterior paint. We also offer specialty products and painting supplies to help you put your painting hacks to use. 21st Century Paints serves the areas of Holland, Toledo, Bowling Green, Findlay, Sandusky, OH & Monroe, MI.