Painting might seem simple on the surface, but there’s a big difference between a job done and a job done well. Many homeowners (and even some tradespeople) fall into the same traps that lead to patchy finishes, peeling paint, or edges that look anything but clean. At Parfitt Painting Services, we pride ourselves on delivering sharp, durable results — and a big part of that is knowing what not to do. Below are five of the most common painting mistakes we see and exactly how we prevent them.
1. Skipping Proper Surface Preparation
One of the biggest pitfalls in painting is neglecting to prep the surface properly. Dust, grease, flaking paint, or damp patches can stop the new coat from adhering, no matter how good your paint is.
What We Do Differently:
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We thoroughly clean surfaces before starting
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We scrape or sand back flaking areas
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We fill and smooth any imperfections
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We use the right primer for the job
Whether it’s a living room wall in a Victorian terrace or a rendered exterior, we never paint over problems — we solve them first.
2. Not Using the Right Primer (or Skipping It Altogether)
Primer helps paint adhere, evens out absorption, and improves the final colour. Yet it’s often ignored, especially on fresh plaster, bare wood, or stained walls.
Our Fix:
We assess each surface individually. New plaster? We mist coat. Stained walls? We use stain-blocking primer. Wood? We seal and prime for durability.
3. Applying Paint Too Thinly or Too Thickly
Paint needs to be applied evenly. Thin layers may look patchy and require multiple coats, while thick ones can drip, crack, or peel.
Our Method:
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We use top-quality rollers and brushes
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We apply smooth, consistent coats with full coverage
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We always follow the paint manufacturer’s guidance on application
The result? A smooth, professional finish that lasts.
4. Poor Tape Work or Skipping Masking Altogether
Uneven lines around skirting boards, ceilings, or windows are dead giveaways of a rushed job.
How We Avoid This:
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We use professional-grade painter’s tape
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We take the time to mask edges precisely
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We remove tape at the right moment — not too early, not too late
This extra care gives that crisp, satisfying edge between colours and surfaces.
5. Not Allowing Enough Drying Time
Rushing to apply a second coat too soon is a recipe for peeling, bubbling, or uneven textures.
Our Practice:
We build proper drying time into every job. We also consider weather conditions — especially for exterior painting — and adjust our schedule to suit.
Bonus Mistake: Using Cheap Tools
Budget brushes and rollers often shed bristles, leave streaks, or waste paint.
We Invest in Quality:
Our tools are chosen for the specific surface and paint type — and maintained to a high standard. This ensures clean results and efficient work.
Real Life Example: We were recently called to fix a bedroom someone had attempted to paint themselves. Drips on the skirting, uneven coverage, and bits of roller fluff on the wall meant starting over. With proper prep and professional technique, we transformed it into a calm, clean retreat in just two days — and saved the client a lot of frustration.
Conclusion
Painting can be rewarding, but it’s also technical. The right method, materials, and timing make all the difference between “good enough” and excellent. That’s what we deliver at Parfitt Painting Services — every time.
Call to Action:
If you want to skip the mistakes and go straight to the flawless finish, get in touch with Parfitt Painting Services today. We offer free quotes across Manchester and beyond.
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