Budgeting for Paint Supplies: What You Need to Know
Are you thinking about giving your space a makeover with fresh paint, but you’re worried about your budget? Quality paint can get expensive, and that’s not even accounting for quality supplies. Still, there are smart ways to save money. Let’s break down how to budget for paint supplies so you can get that perfect finish without breaking the bank.
Create a Detailed Project Plan
Outlining your painting project from start to finish helps ensure that you don’t overlook any supplies or steps that can create gaps in your budget. The first step is to clearly define your goal, which will guide your decisions moving forward. Are you refreshing a single room, the whole house, or an outdoor wall?
Break down the project into specific tasks, including preparation, drying times, and cleanup. This will help you set a realistic timeline, identify the painting supplies needed, and allocate resources for each task. Double-check your project plan, and if possible, have someone with experience look at it.
Determine How Much Paint You Need
Estimating the right amount of paint is essential to achieving the finish you want without overspending. Generally speaking, buying a larger volume of paint at once is cheaper than buying multiple smaller cans. However, you might not need a giant five-gallon bucket for your project. So, how do you budget for paint? Measure the areas where you’ll apply paint and determine the total square footage. To do this, multiply the wall length by the height per wall and subtract the square footage of windows and doors.
A good rule of thumb is that one gallon of paint covers around 400 square feet. However, following the coverage per gallon indicated on the paint cans you choose is better than just taking a guess. Ensure you consider the number of coats, which will also be specified on the can. Also, buying extra paint for touch-ups is usually a good idea. You may even return unopened cans, depending on where you bought them.
Understand the Different Types of Paint
Familiarizing yourself with the different types of paint is a good step to help you budget for painting supplies. Each type has unique properties, price points, and uses, so knowing your options can help you choose.
Water-based paints are generally more affordable and are easier to apply and clean up. This makes them popular for residential painting projects. Examples include latex and acrylic.
On the other hand, oil-based paints, like alkyd and enamel, have a more durable, smoother finish but have a stronger odor and are more expensive.
Review the Prices of Various Primers and Sealants
Consider using primers and sealants to help prepare your surfaces and ensure the paint job's longevity. Primers help paint to adhere better and improve the finish, especially on porous or stained surfaces, saving you from future touch-ups. Sealants are a worthy investment if the painted surface needs extra protection, such as in a high-traffic area or outdoors.
Consider the Cost of Tools
A well-planned budget should consider essential tools, such as brushes, rollers, sanders, scrapers, tape, and more. Use a mix of brush sizes for detailed work and larger surfaces. Roller covers are essential if you need to cover large areas quickly. Sanding between coats is a good way to get the best finish. Painter’s tape helps create clean lines and prevent unintended paint splatters on unwanted areas.
Another important note here is the time requirements. Assess the project's length, including preparation, painting, and drying times. You may have to plan around these factors when choosing your supplies. For instance, if you need to speed up the process, consider getting paint sprayers and extension poles for rollers.
Research Brands That Offer the Best Value
Having many brands to choose from is good, but it can also be overwhelming. To ensure you get the best quality for your budget, compare brands and look for a balance between quality and affordability. Reading reviews can help you gauge product quality. Keep an eye out for sales and discount opportunities, too.
Word of mouth, especially from people who have done similar painting projects, can also be an incredible source of information. Inquire about their budget breakdown and ask for their recommendations on which products are effective and which to avoid.
Get Professional Help
DIY projects may be rewarding, but partnering with a professional team like Anderson Painting can elevate the results to the next level. Our experts can help you choose the best budget painting supplies and assess (or complete) your painting goals. Getting professional help reduces stress, saves you from mistakes, and lets you focus on the most exciting part of the paint job: choosing colors and finishes.
Need a paint job on a budget? Call today at 919-610-1855 or email us at info@andersonpaintingnc.com to see how we can help.
