A fresh coat of paint is the easiest way to up your home decor game with a major transformation. While professional services are quick and efficient, a lot of people decide to take up by themselves for cost savings. Despite getting messy at times, the process does not really have to be tedious or unmanageable. So if you are considering a DIY home painting project, we have compiled some tips you should keep in mind to make the experience a breeze.
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Ventilation
The paints you are using for your walls are bound to have harmful chemicals and even emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Inhaling the fumes might be detrimental to your health. To avoid this, ensure proper ventilation in the area and use fans to disperse the fumes and speed up the drying time. Painting in closed, confined spaces without adequate ventilation should be avoided at all costs.
Protective gear
Protect your hands from the chemicals and solvents in the paint by wearing gloves and use safety goggles to prevent paint splatters from getting into your eyes. While sanding or using oil-based paints and solvents, inhalation of dust and fumes is common. Avoid this by wearing a mask or respirator. Additionally, make sure to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from paint splashes.
Stable ladder
Always use a ladder that is sturdy, non-wobbly and has non-slip feet. Place it on a flat and level surface and steer clear off slippery or uneven surfaces. Maintaining optimal balance while climbing a ladder typically involves three points of contact, i.e. two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. By following this thumb rule, you can avoid accidents and mishaps.
Avoid overreaching
When trying to go for an area out of your reach, always get off and move the ladder and avoid overreaching at all costs. A common cause of ladder accidents, it is very easy to lose balance and fall off the ladder by overreaching. Maintain proper balance by keeping your body centred between the ladder rails at all times and do not lean too far to one side.
Cleanup
If there are any spills while painting, make sure to address them immediately to prevent slips and accidents. Use a cloth or paper towels to wipe it up and barricade the area and put up warning signs until the area is completely dry.
Electrical safety
Be extra careful around electrical outlets, switches and fixtures. If you need to paint around such areas, do so only after turning off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid the risk of electrical shock. To avoid painting over electrical outlets and switches, apply painter’s tape over them while the process lasts and take it off only once the paint is fully dry.
Disposal
Disposal of paint cans, brushes, rollers and other materials should be done in an environmentally friendly manner after the job is done. Pouring paint or solvents down drains or into the environment is a big no-no. All required measures must be taken to ensure that the waste disposal method adopted does not pose a threat to the environment.
Fire safety
Paints and solvents are flammable materials, and thus must be kept away from open flames, sparks and heat sources. These materials are best stored in a cool, dry place. Never smoke in the painting area and ensure that any pilot lights or any other sources of ignition are safely turned off.
Child and pet safety
To prevent accidental ingestion or contact with paint and supplies, keep children and pets at a safe distance away from the painting area. When not in use, store the materials safely out of reach of children and pets.
Safe storage
Paint and supplies are best stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. The lids should be tightly closed at all times when not in use to prevent spills and evaporation. Keep these materials out of reach of children and pets as it might cause accidental poisoning or injury.
FAQs
Why is ventilation important during a painting project?
Ventilation is important to prevent inhalation of harmful paint fumes that might otherwise cause headaches, dizziness or respiratory problems if inhaled.
What protective gear should I wear while painting?
Gloves, safety goggles, a mask or respirator and long-sleeved clothing are must-haves while undertaking a painting project.
How can I ensure my ladder is used safely?
Place the ladder on a flat stable surface, always maintain three points of contact and avoid overreaching and keep your body centred between the rails at all times.
What should I do if I spill paint?
It is recommended to clean up any spills immediately to prevent slips and accidents. Wipe off the affected area with a cloth or paper towel and keep the area off limits until completely dry.
What precautions should I take around electrical outlets and switches?
Turn off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid the risk of electric shock while painting near outlets and use painter’s tape to mask them and keep them free of paint.
How should I dispose of paint and related materials?
Paint cans, brushes, rollers and other materials should be disposed of keeping in mind ecological guidelines to avoid harming the environment with careless practices.
How can I keep children and pets safe during a painting project?
Keep pets and children at a safe distance away from the area to prevent accidental ingestion or contact with paint and supplies. Store supplies out of reach when not in use.
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