So let’s make it easier. Here’s a look at the colours people across the UK are choosing right now, why these shades work so well and how they can completely change the feel of your home.

The Colour Trends Shaping UK Homes

Across the UK, homeowners are moving away from stark, cold tones and leaning towards colours that feel warmer, calmer and more natural. These shades work well in everyday living spaces. They adapt nicely to different lighting conditions and suit a wide range of property styles, from modern new builds to older period homes.

Here are some of the most popular colour directions people are choosing at the moment, and why they work so well.

Warm Neutrals That Actually Feel Warm

Neutrals never go out of style, but the colder greys that took over a few years ago are slowly stepping aside for softer, cosier tones. Think soft beige, warm oat, muted stone and gentle biscuit shades.

These colours work because they don’t boss the room around. They sit quietly in the background, making everything look a little calmer and more pulled together without overwhelming your space. They also suit almost any type of home, from modern new builds to older Victorian houses.

If you want a colour that feels clean without feeling cold, warm neutrals are a safe, reliable choice.

Greens That Make A Room Feel Alive Again

Green has become the go-to shade for people wanting something fresh but not too bold. It’s probably because the colour sits so nicely in the middle between calming and uplifting. Sage is still the UK favourite, and for good reason. It looks good in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms… It’s hard to get it wrong.

Darker shades like olive and forest green are getting more popular, too. They bring depth and character, especially in snug rooms or spaces with warm lighting. If your home has wooden floors or natural textures, greens tend to pull the whole look together.

Soft Blues That Give You Room To Breathe

Blue is one of those colours that instantly shifts the mood of a room. Pale blues make spaces feel airy and relaxed, almost like a quiet morning by the coast. They’re perfect for bathrooms and bedrooms, but you’ll also see them creeping into kitchens and hallways.

If you want something a bit moodier, navy is still going strong. It can feel dramatic at first, but when you pair it with warm lighting and natural wood, it creates a rich, welcoming atmosphere.

Earthy Tones That Feel Grounded

People are leaning towards colours that make their homes feel warm and lived in. Terracotta, burnt umber, caramel and clay shades are becoming more popular. These colours look especially good in older homes with a bit of character, but even modern houses benefit from the warmth.

Earthy tones can make a room feel instantly more cosy, especially during the darker months. They work well in dining rooms, living rooms and even on feature walls in larger spaces.

Soft Pinks That Aren’t Sugary At All

A few years ago, saying you were painting a room pink felt like a bold statement. Now, soft muted pinks are everywhere, mostly because they warm up a space without feeling overly feminine.

Blush, muted rose, and soft mushroomy pinks are surprisingly versatile. They pair well with greys, greens, gold accents and darker woods. If you want something gentle but more interesting than beige, this is a great direction to explore.

Why These Colours Are Taking Over UK Homes

Trends shift for all sorts of reasons, but in the last couple of years, homeowners have been leaning toward colours that feel calm, grounded and natural. People want rooms that make them feel relaxed rather than overstimulated. Soft greens, warm neutrals and earthy tones all help create that sense of balance.

The other reason? These shades look good under both natural and artificial lighting, which makes them safer choices for UK homes that don’t always get loads of sunshine.

A Quick Tip Before You Decide On A Colour

Paint looks very different on your wall than it does on a swatch or a phone screen. If you’ve ever chosen a colour in the shop and then wondered why it looks completely different at home, it’s down to lighting and the size of the surface.

Always test a few samples on the actual wall. Try different areas of the room, especially near windows, corners and lamps. Look at them during the day and in the evening. You’ll be surprised how much they shift.

Thinking About Giving Your Home A Refresh?

Choosing paint colours is one of the most enjoyable parts of decorating, but getting them onto the walls neatly and evenly is another story. If you’ve got some ideas brewing and want a hand bringing them to life, A and J Painters and Decorators can help turn those swatches into a finish that feels right every time you walk into the room.

Whether it’s a single room or a full house transformation, we’re always happy to chat through options and give you honest guidance on what will work best in your space. Give us a call today on 0114 299 1356 or fill out our online contact form to get started.

The post The Most Popular Paint Colours for UK Homes Right Now appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

Choosing the right paint can feel like a bit of a minefield – not just the colour, but the type, the finish, and the quality. Get it right, and your walls will look brilliant for years. Get it wrong, and you’ll be repainting by the end of summer.

So before you grab your brush, here’s a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to help you pick the right paint for your home.

Start With the Room, Not the Colour

The biggest mistake most people make is choosing paint based on a colour card instead of the space it’s going in. A shade that looks warm and inviting under bright shop lights can look flat or cold once it’s on your wall.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• North-facing rooms tend to get cooler light, which can make colours look a bit dull. Warmer tones like beige, terracotta, or a soft cream work wonders here.
• South-facing rooms get loads of natural light. You can afford to go for deeper or bolder colours without making the room feel small.
• Small rooms benefit from lighter shades that help bounce light around.
• Big rooms can take darker tones – navy, charcoal, or even deep green – and still feel open.

If you’re unsure, test a few samples on different walls and check them at different times of day. Morning light, afternoon sun, and evening lamps all change how a colour looks.

And remember – if you wouldn’t wear it as a jumper, you probably don’t want it covering your living room walls either.

Understanding Paint Finishes

You’ve picked a colour, but then you’re hit with another decision: matt, satin, eggshell, or gloss? Paint finish changes everything about how your room looks and how easy it is to keep clean.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

• Matt: No shine at all, great for hiding small imperfections. Ideal for bedrooms, lounges, and ceilings.
• Satin: Slightly shiny, easier to wipe clean – great for kitchens and hallways.
• Eggshell: A subtle sheen, works well on walls and woodwork.
• Gloss: Very shiny, perfect for trims, skirting boards, and doors.

Think of it this way – Matt is your comfy jumper, gloss is your polished dress shoes. Both have their place, but not at the same party. If you’ve got kids or pets, go for washable paints where possible. A quick wipe-down saves a world of pain later.

Choosing Colours Without Regret

This is the fun bit… until it isn’t. It’s easy to get carried away when flicking through paint swatches. One minute you’re convinced you want “Calming Sage”, the next you’re looking at “Midnight Smoke” and wondering if dark green is too moody.

A few quick tips:

• Test small areas before committing – not just a tiny square, but a proper patch.
• Check the paint in daylight and under artificial light.
• Paint next to skirting boards and ceilings to see how it looks against other colours.

If you’re painting a few rooms, try to keep a bit of flow between them. You don’t need every wall to match, that can look a bit like a show home, but it helps if the colours feel like they belong together. Sticking with similar tones, whether that’s warm or cool shades, makes the whole house feel more connected.

And don’t forget the ceiling. A crisp white can make a room feel taller and brighter, while a slightly off-white gives things a softer, cosier look. It’s a small choice, but it makes a big difference once everything’s done.

Cheap Paint vs Quality Paint – Why It Matters

We’ve all stood in the paint aisle doing the maths and thinking, “That cheaper one will probably be fine.” The trouble is, it rarely is.

Cheaper paint usually means more coats, more time, and more frustration. It can look patchy, fade quicker, and doesn’t handle knocks as well. Spend a little more on decent paint and you’ll notice the difference straight away – it goes on smoother, covers better, and lasts years longer.

So yes, the pricier tin might sting at the checkout, but when you only need two coats instead of four, it suddenly feels like money well spent. A good paint job should last years – not until the next time you fancy rearranging the furniture.

Interior vs Exterior Paint – Don’t Mix Them Up

It might sound obvious, but paint isn’t one-size-fits-all. Indoor and outdoor paints are made differently for a reason.

• Interior paint is designed for smooth walls and easy cleaning. It’s not built to handle rain or temperature swings.
• Exterior paint has extra protection against moisture, UV rays, and mould. It’s tougher and thicker, but not suitable for inside your home – it smells stronger and doesn’t dry as smoothly.

Using the wrong paint is one of those mistakes you only make once. Trust me, you’ll smell it before you see it.

Getting the Most From Your Paint Job

A good finish isn’t just down to the paint itself – it’s about how it’s applied. Preparation makes the biggest difference. That means cleaning the surface properly, filling cracks, and sanding where needed.

If you’re painting woodwork, don’t skip the primer. It helps the paint stick and stops stains or knots from bleeding through.

And when you start painting, take your time. Two thin coats are better than one thick one. Give each coat time to dry properly, and don’t rush to move furniture back against the walls. Fresh paint can take a day or two to fully harden.

If it’s a big job – say, high ceilings or the outside of the house – it might be worth calling in the pros. There’s no shame in it. They’ve got the tools, the ladders, and the patience to get it right. Plus, you can spend your weekend doing something more fun than balancing on a stepladder.

Final Thoughts

Painting your home doesn’t need to be stressful. Once you’ve picked the right colour and finish, it’s amazing how much difference a few coats can make.

If you’d rather skip the faff of ladders and drop sheets, that’s where we come in. At AJ Painters & Decorators, we’ll handle the prep, the painting, and the tidy-up, leaving you with a finish that actually lasts.

Get in touch on 01234 857057 or fill in our online contact form for a free quote – and let’s get your home looking fresh again.

Common Painting Questions

Can you paint over old paint?
Yes, but only if it’s in good condition. If it’s flaking, peeling, or stained, you’ll need to sand and prime it first.

What’s the best paint for a kitchen or bathroom?
Go for moisture-resistant or washable paints. They handle steam and splashes far better than standard emulsions.

How long does a typical house painting job take?
A single room might take a day or two. The outside of a full house could take a week, depending on the weather.

Do I really need primer?
If you’re painting bare plaster, wood, or going from dark to light colours – absolutely. It helps the topcoat look smoother and last longer.

The post How to Choose the Right Paint for Your Home appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

What Goes Into Painting a House

Painting a house isn’t as simple as grabbing a brush and getting stuck in. The secret to a good finish lies in the preparation. Before any colour is applied, the walls need a thorough clean, any cracks or holes must be filled, and rough patches need to be sanded down. If you rush that bit, the paint won’t stick properly, and it’ll start peeling or flaking before you know it.

Most good painters actually spend more time getting the surfaces ready than they do painting. That’s what makes the end result smooth, even, and long-lasting. Once everything’s prepped, it’s just about taking your time – applying steady coats, letting each one dry fully, and keeping an eye on the details that make all the difference.

Interior Painting – Giving Rooms a Fresh Start

Interior painting can completely change how a room feels. Lighter colours open things up, darker tones make spaces feel warm and cosy, and a good finish just makes everything look clean and new again.

The main thing to remember indoors is preparation. A bit of time spent fixing scuffs, sanding edges, and taping properly makes all the difference. The right paint helps too – washable ones for kitchens and hallways, softer finishes for bedrooms or lounges. If you’re going to the effort of redecorating, it’s worth doing properly.

Exterior Painting – Looking Good and Lasting Longer

Outside paintwork has a tougher job. It’s got to look smart and stand up to British weather. Rain, frost, and sunlight all wear it down over time, which is why exterior painting is as much about protection as it is about appearance.

Before painting, walls and woodwork need a good clean, and any loose paint has to come off. Then comes the undercoat and the weatherproof topcoat that helps stop moisture from getting in. Done right, you shouldn’t need to touch it again for years.

Different Paints for Different Jobs

Interior and exterior paints aren’t the same thing. Inside paints are made to be wiped clean and give a smooth finish. Exterior paints are tougher and made to deal with changing weather. Using the wrong one is asking for trouble – it either won’t stick or won’t last.

When to Think About Repainting

Most rooms need repainting every few years, especially places like hallways or kitchens that see more wear. Bedrooms or living areas can usually go a bit longer. Outside, it depends on the surface and the weather, but every eight to ten years is a good rule of thumb.

If you start noticing fading or cracks, it’s time for a refresh before it gets worse.

Time for a Fresh Coat?

Painting can be a big job, but when it’s done properly, it completely changes how your home feels. If you’re thinking about getting started, it’s worth getting a professional in. You’ll get better results, it’ll last longer, and you won’t have to spend your weekends up a ladder.

At AJ Painters & Decorators, we help homeowners with everything from a single room to full exterior makeovers. We take care of all the prep, the paint, and the finishing touches so you can just enjoy the result.

If your home’s due for a refresh, get in touch on 01234 857057 or fill out our online contact form for a friendly chat and a free quote.

A Few Quick Questions People Often Ask

Can you paint over old paint?
You can, as long as it’s not flaking or damaged. Give it a light sand and you’ll be fine.

How long does painting take?
A single room might take a couple of days. A full exterior can take about a week, depending on the weather.

What’s the best time to paint outside?
Spring and early autumn usually work best – not too hot, not too cold.

The post House Painting Made Simple: From Interior Painters to Exterior Finishes appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

Key Takeaways

• Hiring a professional painter and decorator ensures expertise and quality results
• Professional services provide a polished, lasting finish with attention to detail
• Experienced painters and decorators adhere to industry standards and safety regulations

Why Hire a Professional Painter and Decorator

1. Their Services Offer Substantial Financial Benefits

Hiring a professional painter and decorator can save time and money in the long run. Professional painters have the expertise, tools, and experience to complete a project efficiently, which allows homeowners to avoid costly mistakes. They also have access to trade discounts on paint and materials, potentially reducing the overall cost of the project. A professionally decorated space can increase the value of a property, making it a worthwhile investment.

2. They Are Trained To Comply With Health & Safety

A professional painter and decorator is trained in safe working practices, reducing the risk of accidents on the job site. They are knowledgeable about the proper use of ladders, scaffolds, and other equipment, ensuring that the work is completed without compromising anyone’s safety. They are aware of potential hazards and toxic materials, such as lead paint, and can take appropriate precautions to protect the homeowner and themselves.

3. They Can Provide Insurance Coverage and Assurance

When hiring a professional painter and decorator, they often come with insurance coverage, providing peace of mind for the property owner in case of accidents or damages. Comprehensive insurance protects homeowners from costs that may arise due to accidental injuries or property damage during the work process. 

Additionally, hiring a professional guarantees quality results. Professionals have a reputation to protect and typically offer some form of guarantee or warranty on their work, ensuring that the final outcome meets your expectations. This assurance helps eliminate the hassle of dealing with subpar results from an inexperienced painter.

The Advantage of Experience

4. They Understand the Importance of Preparation

Hiring experienced professionals, such as a skilled tradesman in painting and decorating, ensures thorough preparation of surfaces before the actual painting process begins. This is a crucial step in achieving a high-quality finish. Experienced painters and decorators are knowledgeable in selecting the right materials and tools for the job, as well as assessing any potential issues with the surfaces, such as cracks or unevenness. This attention to detail ensures a smooth, lasting result that meets your expectations.

5. They Stay Up-to-date with the Latest Industry Techniques

An experienced professional painter and decorator is well-versed in the latest industry techniques, ensuring a more efficient and effective painting process. These techniques, gained through years of experience, enable the tradesman to produce a consistently high-quality finish, tailored to your requirements. Some of these techniques may include using the correct type of brush or roller for the specific paint and surface, as well as proper application methods to avoid common issues such as brush strokes, sagging, and roller marks.

6. They Bring Expertise to the Project

Hiring a professional painter and decorator with experience brings a level of expertise that is unmatched by DIY enthusiasts. These skilled tradesmen have the ability to problem-solve and address any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the project. Their expertise also extends to knowledge of appropriate paint types and finishes for various surfaces, ensuring the final result not only looks great but also offers long-lasting durability. 

7. They Deliver Quality Finishes and Attention to Detail

A professional painter and decorator can provide a high-quality finish, ensuring that the interior or exterior of your property is visually appealing and well-maintained. Their expertise and attention to detail lead to outstanding results, which are not easily achievable by a DIY approach.

8. They Are Skilled In Choosing The Best Paints and Materials

One aspect that sets professionals apart from DIY enthusiasts is their experience in selecting the appropriate paints and materials. They have a deep understanding of the different types of finishes available in the market, and they can guide you towards the best choice for your specific needs. A professional painter and decorator will also have access to high-quality materials that can withstand weather conditions and maintain their appearance for a longer period. This ultimately results in a durable and visually attractive finish.

Trusting a professional is a worthwhile investment, as their skills and experience contribute to the overall excellence of your completed project.

Professional Versus DIY Decorating

Specific Project Types

When considering whether to tackle a decorating project through DIY or hiring a professional painter and decorator, it’s important to first assess the type of project at hand. For straightforward tasks like painting a single wall or small room, DIY painting might be suitable for those confident in their abilities. However, large-scale projects, such as commercial projects, high walls, complex areas such as stairwells, or redecorating prior to selling your home, may require the expertise of a professional.

Time Efficiency

Although DIY painting might initially seem more cost-effective, time efficiency is another crucial factor to consider. A professional painter and decorator can carry out the task more quickly and efficiently, resulting in a faster project completion time. This can be especially beneficial when deadlines or time constraints are in place.

DIY decorators may find that a project takes longer than initially estimated, causing disruptions to daily life and potentially adding stress. By hiring a professional, the homeowner can focus on other tasks or simply enjoy their time while the decorator takes care of the project.

Hiring Process

Hiring a professional painter and decorator has several advantages, ensuring that you receive high-quality, lasting results. The hiring process can be straightforward, and it typically involves the following steps.

First, it’s important to gather a few quotes from different professional painters. You can request a free quote from each painter to compare their rates, experience, and proposed timelines. Be sure to provide detailed information about your project to get accurate quotes.

When evaluating prospective painters, it’s essential to verify their references and reviews. This will give you insight into the quality of work and professionalism of the painter.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, it’s time to hire a painter. Don’t forget to ask for proof of professional qualifications and insurance coverage. This protects you if accidental damage occurs during the project.

FAQs

• What services can a professional painter and decorator provide? They offer a range of services, including painting, wallpapering, plaster repairs, and more.
• Can a professional painter and decorator provide design advice? Yes, they can guide you in choosing colours, materials, and finishes that match your style and home.
• Is hiring a professional painter and decorator costly? The initial cost may seem higher than DIY, but considering the quality, durability, and time saved, it often proves to be a value-for-money decision.
• What should I look for when hiring a professional painter and decorator? Look for experience, customer reviews, portfolio, and whether they are insured and licensed.
• Can professional painters and decorators work within my schedule? Most professionals are flexible and willing to work within your timetable.

The post 8 Reasons You Need Professional Painters and Decorators appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

How does paint increase home value?

Your home’s paint can reveal a lot about it. Paint that is flaking, chipping, or peeling may indicate that your home is not being properly maintained. It may unintentionally affect prospective buyers’ opinions of your home before they decide to tour the interior. Therefore, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders if you want to wow potential customers and create a positive first impression, on-site or online. 

Keep in mind that curb appeal is crucial to your property’s ability to sell and has a significant impact on both the asking price and the amount that prospective buyers are ready to pay.

What to Consider for a New Paint Job

Think about the following considerations to ensure that painting your home with brand-new paint to raise its value is actually cost-effective:

• Cost of labour 
• Materials accessible nearby
• The standard of comparable postings
• How big your house is and how much of it needs painting
• Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire painters

Tips on Repainting Your House To Increase Its Value

Here are some helpful hints for repainting your home’s interior to assist in raising its value:

• Use neutral hues like white, off-white, beige, tan, grey, taupe, and light grey instead.
• Utilise colour theory to introduce specific hues into various spaces.
• When decorating a space where you want to unwind, use soothing and peaceful hues.
• The ideal time frame for house repainting is every 7-8 years.

Paint Your Home’s Exterior

The first line of defence against the elements for your house is paint. That indicates that it experiences the effects of the sun, rain, wind, heat, and cold. Even though a superb outside paint job ought to last for a while, paint will eventually fade or chip. It’s time to hire a professional for exterior painting services if it’s been a while since you painted the exterior of your house or if the paint is peeling, damaged, or faded.

Update Your Interior Paint Colours

A home where the walls disappear into the backdrop allows potential buyers to visualise themselves and their furniture better. Although painting your home’s inside before selling might seem like a burden, it’s still a rather cheap approach to wow potential buyers.

Prior to selling your house, fresh paint will also provide you with a number of other advantages, including:

• Sealing against odours (especially important if you cook a lot, have pets, or are a smoker).
• Luminise dull walls.
• Keeping walls sealed and clean.
• Make compact areas appear spacious and cheerful.
• Give homes—even older, historic ones—a fresh, new, or more contemporary feel.

Finally, interior painting will conceal scuffs, dings, dents, and heavily used areas, giving the impression that you have taken good care of your house rather than beating it up. There won’t be a sense of impending work for prospective purchasers when they enter the property.

Before you put your property on the market for sale, our interior and exterior paint professionals are prepared to assist you with your painting jobs. For a free residential decorating quote for interior or exterior painting, get in touch with us today. 

The post 5 Ways Painting Increases the Value of Your Home appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

Painting Tips – Do:

Try Testers in the Light

Place the testers against each wall in natural light to watch how the paint colour changes depending on the amount of light in the room you’re painting. When painting a north-facing room vs a more sunny one, keep in mind that paint colours react differently in natural and artificial light.

Fill in the Holes in your Wall

Use a flat knife to apply Polyfilla to any nail holes, cracks, or fissures in your wall to fill them in and guarantee you’re working with a flat and even surface. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

You Always Paint Top to Bottom

A golden rule of painting a room: always start at the top and work your way down. So, if you’re painting your ceiling, apply both layers and let them dry before moving on to the next step.

Use the right paint finish

If you’ve decided on a new paint colour or palette for your home renovation project, you might think you’re done, but there’s still one more step to consider: the finish. Paint comes in a variety of finishes, and you’ll need to figure out which one is ideal for your project before getting your brushes and rollers out.

Decorating Tips – Don’t:

Forget to prep your walls

You may wish to skip this step to save time or because your walls appear to be fine to paint over. However, grime, dust, scratches, and cracks are frequently difficult to notice until they appear through your new paint. Before you begin, wipe your walls with warm, soapy water, patch any cracks or holes with filler, and allow the surface to dry completely before painting.

Paint directly out of the can

Because colours vary somewhat from can to can, it’s a good idea to mix paint in a smaller container before you start painting. This approach might just save your sanity when it comes to decorating with the least amount of mess.

Load your brush up with too much paint

Overloading the brush with paint is one of the most typical decorating blunders to avoid. If you use a brush, make sure the paint just gets halfway down the bristles to avoid a rough finish. Make sure to evenly distribute paint by rolling the roller back and forth on the paint pan. 

Contact Us

We hope these painting tips help you when it comes to taking on the task yourself. But if you would like a professional to take on the project, get in touch with A & J Painters for your free quote. We have painters in Luton, decorators in Milton Keynes, and painters in Northampton.

The post Painting Dos & Don’ts appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

But once you’ve found the perfect paint colour, what next? Follow our comprehensive guide to improve your decorating skills, achieve impressive results and avoid any DIY disasters.

What You Need To Paint a Room

• Wall and ceiling paint
• Masking tape
• Filler
• Paintbrushes
• Rollers and roller tray
• Sandpaper
• Dust sheets

How To Paint Your Room Effectively

1. Protect furniture and surfaces with dust sheets and change into old clothes or overalls.
2. Use filler to fix any holes, then once dry sand down the surface.
3. If you are painting over satin or gloss paint, sand the walls first to help the new paint stick.
4. Clean your walls with sugar soap diluted in water, using a clean sponge to remove any dust, dirt or debris from the surface.
5. Once the walls are dry, use masking tape to protect skirting boards, sockets and switches. If you’re using a different colour on the ceiling or an adjoining wall, use masking tape along the edges to ensure a neat, clean finish.
6. Stir your paint thoroughly before pouring some into your roller tray. Apply paint to the wall in a W motion – this will ensure the paint is evenly distributed. Swap to a small brush or smaller roller for tricky edges and corners.
7. Once the first coat of paint is dry, apply a second. Two coats will usually be enough to achieve a professional finish.
8. Once the second coat is dry, carefully remove any masking tape and pack up your dust sheets. Thoroughly wash your rollers, brushes and roller tray ready for your next painting project.

Painting A Radiator

Ensure the radiator is switched off and completely cool before you begin anything. Naturally, radiators need to withstand everyday knocks and bumps so choose a good quality radiator paint. As with anything being painted, protecting the surrounding walls and floor with dust sheets.

Before you start, clean your radiator with sugar soap and water, before completely drying it. Wipe down any remaining dust particles and then cover any valves and vents with masking tape. Lightly sand the surface, wipe down then begin applying your paint, using vertical brush strokes. Apply two coats, leaving the first to dry before applying the second. Wait 24 hours before using the radiator to ensure the paint is completely dry.

How To Paint a Ceiling

1. Ensure you buy ceiling paint to achieve the best results.
2. Sand away any rough areas of the ceiling surface.
3. Use masking tape around the ceiling edges and also around light fixtures or alarms.
4. Use a paintbrush to cut in around edges and any fixtures. Avoid overloading your brush with paint and take your time as this can be a tricky step.
5. Paint the ceiling using a roller and extension pole, letting the first coat dry thoroughly before applying a second.
6. When the second coat is dry, remove any masking tape and rinse your brushes and rollers.

Common Mistakes When Painting a Room

From not protecting furniture or flooring with dust sheets to forgetting to clean the walls before you begin or not waiting for each coat to dry, there are many common mistakes you might make if it’s your first time painting. You might buy the wrong type of paint, the wrong brushes, or even not enough paint. 

Contact Our Painters

Luckily, if you’re not feeling confident in your DIY skills, the experts can help. Hiring a professional painter and decorator can save you time and stress – and also means your room will look fantastic once it’s painted. It can also save you money too, as you won’t have to buy brushes, rollers and any other kit to paint your room.

Speak to our team about your painting plans by getting in touch today.

The post Tips When Painting a Room appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

Water-based, oil based, gloss, satin or eggshell. There are many different types of paints, each with their own properties. The type of paint you should use will depend on the surface you are painting and the type of finish you want. Our painters and decorators have many years of experience with using each and every type of paint available.

In our latest post, we take a look at the types of paints available and their properties.

Oil-based and water-based paints

In the past, until 2010, oil-based paints were by far the most popular. In 2010, however, paint manufacturers were required to lower the amount of solvent in the paint and this led to yellowing of the paint, ruining the desired finish. The issue of yellowing was solved by 2012, but was met with stiff competition from water-based paints which had risen in popularity.

Today, both water and oil-based paints have great coverage, but some find that oil-based paints provide a smoother finish. On the other hand, there is hardly any paint smell with water-based paints and most options are eco-friendly with quick drying times.

Gloss

Gloss is one of the most durable types of paint and is made to last. Consequently, gloss is best used on doors and frames, skirting boards, banisters, wooden window frames and more.

Gloss paints are 100% sheen and may highlight imperfections in wood if the surface is not prepared sufficiently. A primer and undercoat will need to be used with gloss to ensure the paint does not simply get soaked into the wood.

Satinwood

Although satinwood paint is self-undercoating, it is often still advised to use a separate primer when painting directly onto bare wood. Satinwood paint is 50% sheen and is very popular for interior woodwork.

Satinwood paints come in both water-based and oil-based finishes. Whilst both are popular, water-based satinwood can leave more visible brush marks, so you will need to be mindful and purchase a very soft-bristled brush.

A & J Painters and Decorators – Paintwork

Our trusted team have many years of experience in completing residential decorating to the highest of standards, ensuring great quality, smooth paintwork every time.

If you require some paintwork at home or on your business premises, call our team today on 01234 857057.

The post What Type of Paint Should I Use? appeared first on A & J Painters and Decorators.

Every business will have a set budget when it comes to funding decor and interior projects. However, even with the tightest of budgets, there are always small changes you can do that end up having a great and positive impact on the overall feel of your interior. A & J Painters and Decorators discuss handy ways to update the interior of your commercial space and why doing so is important.

Do I Need to Update my Office Interior?

If you are wondering whether you need to spend money on updating the aesthetics of your office, keep in mind how your office feels as you walk into it and what will catch the eye of others that have never been there before. Whilst you may overlook scruffy bits of paintwork or marks in the walls, new visitors will be seeing these for the first time and they will look as prominent as ever.

Aside from ensuring you have a smart office space to accommodate visitors and meetings, several studies have proven that the environment which you work in can make a great difference to productivity levels, concentration and atmosphere.

If your office space has become uninspiring to work in, investing in this area could provide you with a great return should your employees feel more motivated and happy in the workplace.

How To Decorate a Commercial Space?

Decorating your office is a very different ball game to decorating your home. When it comes to the office environment, you will need to ensure that your decor remains on-brand, keeping everyone singing to the same hymn sheet.

To unify the space you are working, try to pick a maximum of three complementing colours to use throughout the space, then use these in additions such as cushions for the sofas or chairs, stationery and artwork.

An office space should not be over-crowded or distracting, so try to keep a neutral backdrop, with additions of personality splashed throughout.

Lighting up Your Office

Your office lighting makes a great difference to the aesthetics of the space and can even prevent headaches and strained eyes.

If your office receives a lot of natural light, you may not need your lights on at all during the summer. When you do need to use extra lighting, desk lamps that illuminate a particular spot can be less harsh and will allow each team member to adapt the level of lighting they have for a more personalised workspace.

A & J Painters and Decorators

If the time has come for you to begin scheduling updates for your office’s interior, we welcome you to contact our trusted team. Having carried out commercial decoration in milton keynes & beyond for many years, we have a wealth of experience in working in both large and small commercial buildings. We will ensure all work is completed to the highest standards and clear away any mess to leave you with a smart and personalised office space. Please call 01234 857057 today.

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