Painting Guide
Getting a Great Finish
A short guide to preparing, applying and caring for your paint, plus how to pick the right sheen for each room.
Four Steps to a Better Finish
1. Prepare the surface
Wash off dust, grease and loose material, fill cracks or holes, and sand smooth. A clean, dry, even surface is what makes any paint job last.
2. Prime where needed
Bare plaster, wood, metal or a big colour change all benefit from a primer or undercoat first. It seals the surface and helps your topcoat cover evenly in fewer coats.
3. Apply in even coats
Stir the paint well before use. Cut in edges and corners with a brush, then roll the larger areas in a W pattern to avoid lines. Two thin coats give a better result than one thick one.
4. Let it cure
Most emulsion paints are touch-dry within 1–2 hours and ready to recoat after about 4 hours, but a full cure can take up to two weeks. Avoid scrubbing or hanging anything on the wall until then.
Choosing a Finish by Room
Not sure which sheen fits your space? Here's a quick starting point.
| Finish | Good For | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Matte / Flat | Ceilings, low-traffic walls | Hides surface imperfections well; less scrubbable. |
| Satin | Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways | A soft sheen that wipes clean without showing every mark. |
| Gloss | Doors, trims, metal surfaces | Tough and easy to wipe down, with a reflective finish. |
| Weather Shield | Exterior walls | Built to handle rain, sun and humidity across the seasons. |
Want help getting it right?
Book an in-home colour consultation, or bring your questions to our team in Lugbe.
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