Top 7 Painting Mistakes St. Louis Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Painting seems simple, but a few wrong moves can turn a DIY project into a disaster. Whether it’s streaky coverage, peeling paint, or messy edges, here are the seven most common mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping Surface Prep

Painting over dust or gloss will stop your paint from sticking properly. Always clean and lightly sand surfaces before painting.

2. Ignoring Primer

Primer helps paint stick evenly and improves color accuracy — especially over dark or glossy walls.

3. Using the Wrong Finish

Flat paint hides imperfections but doesn’t clean well. Use satin or eggshell in high-traffic areas for durability.

4. Not Using Painter’s Tape Correctly

Remove painter’s tape before the paint fully dries to avoid peeling — and always press edges down firmly before painting.

5. Overloading the Brush

Dip only one-third of your brush into paint. Too much paint causes drips and brush marks.

6. Painting in the Wrong Conditions

Avoid painting in high humidity or extreme heat — both can cause uneven drying and texture issues.

7. Forgetting to Stir Paint

Paint separates while sitting, so stir it every time you pour a new batch.

Conclusion

Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be surprised how professional your results look.
Or skip the learning curve entirely — book your local painting experts at Red Roller Painting today!