Painting a room seems easy—until it isn’t.
While painting is often considered one of the most beginner-friendly DIY projects, it’s also one of the most commonly botched. Uneven coats, peeling paint, or colors that looked great online but awful in person—these missteps don’t just ruin the vibe of a room, they can cost real money to fix.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common interior painting mistakes that Edmond homeowners make—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re tackling a bedroom, hallway, or entire home, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
1. Skipping Surface Prep
This is the mistake that derails most DIY paint jobs. Dirty, glossy, or damaged surfaces won’t hold paint well. That means chipping, streaking, or peeling later.
Avoid it by:
- Washing walls with mild soap or degreaser
- Repairing cracks, nail holes, and dents
- Sanding glossy surfaces
- Using primer on patched or uneven areas
Pro Tip: Even “paint-and-primer in one” products still require solid prep.
2. Choosing the Wrong Paint Finish
Using flat paint in a high-traffic hallway? Glossy paint in a softly lit bedroom? The wrong sheen can make your space look off—and age poorly.
Best finish by space:
- Flat/Matte: Ceilings, low-traffic walls
- Eggshell/Satin: Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways
- Semi-gloss/Gloss: Bathrooms, trim, kitchens
Finish affects durability AND appearance—choose accordingly.
3. Not Testing the Paint Color
That dreamy color from the store? It can look totally different under your lighting or against your furniture.
Avoid it by:
- Testing a swatch on each wall of the room
- Observing the color in both daylight and at night
- Letting it dry fully before making a decision
Always test before you invest.
4. Ignoring Tape and Edges
A rushed paint job often shows up in the details—especially around trim, ceilings, and corners. Crooked lines or paint on baseboards will stand out more than you think.
Avoid it by:
- Using high-quality painter’s tape
- Sealing tape edges by pressing them down firmly
- Removing tape while the paint is still slightly tacky
5. Painting Over Wet or Dirty Surfaces
Moisture and dirt are enemies of adhesion. Painting over damp patches (especially in bathrooms or basements) can lead to peeling or bubbling.
Avoid it by:
- Allowing surfaces to fully dry after cleaning
- Waiting 24 hours after patching or priming
- Using fans or dehumidifiers in high-moisture areas
6. Using Cheap Tools or Supplies
Thin rollers, bargain brushes, and low-quality paint may seem like savings—but they lead to uneven coverage, visible strokes, and a shorter lifespan.
Avoid it by:
- Investing in good brushes and rollers
- Using the right tool for the right paint type (angled brushes for trim, microfiber rollers for smooth walls)
- Choosing quality paint that’s appropriate for your space
A $5 brush can cost you hundreds in touch-ups.
7. Applying Paint Too Thickly (or Too Thinly)
Uneven coats can lead to visible streaks or peeling paint later on. Trying to “get it all in one coat” often backfires.
Avoid it by:
- Applying thin, even layers
- Letting each coat dry fully before applying the next
- Checking the manufacturer’s recommended dry time
8. Not Using Primer When It’s Needed
Primer isn’t always necessary, but skipping it when it is can be costly.
You need primer if:
- You’re painting over dark colors
- You’re covering stains or water damage
- You’ve patched large areas
- You’re switching paint finishes or brands
When in doubt, prime it out.
9. Painting in the Wrong Conditions
Paint doesn’t like extreme temps or high humidity. Painting in the wrong environment can result in tacky finishes, bubbles, or poor curing.
Ideal conditions:
- Temps between 50–85°F
- Low humidity (under 60%)
- Good airflow
10. Rushing the Job
Paint needs time. Rushing between coats, skipping prep, or skipping cleanup can ruin a project that could have lasted for years.
Avoid it by:
- Scheduling enough time (including drying time!)
- Following instructions on your paint can
- Embracing the process, not just the result
Painting may seem simple, but the details matter—and the mistakes can be expensive. Taking the time to prepare, plan, and paint properly ensures your effort pays off in a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
So whether you’re going DIY or hiring a pro, remember: a good paint job doesn’t just save money—it adds value, protects surfaces, and transforms your space for the better.