Home decorating is more than the latest trend; it increases the value and enjoyment of any property. The easiest way to get maximum value from your personal and monetary investment is with a fresh coat of paint.

Maintaining and improving your home enhances both your living style and your long-term investment. The money you spend on fixing up your property today will pay for itself in profits when you decide to sell. Painting your home indoors, and outdoors, is the fastest and easiest way to create the look you want, without spending a bundle.

The following tips will help you to get the job done faster, and smarter:

Shake Things Up

The first step to a great finish is to fully stir the paint before you begin. Even though paints are professionally mixed when you buy them, the colors can separate during storage and transportation. If you fail to completely stir the paint you can end up with an uneven finish. Using a stir stick can be tiresome, and your portable or electric drill offers a great alternative.

Cut a plastic clothes hanger into a long "J" shape and insert it into the end of your drill. This handy tool provides a time-saving and energy-conserving means of mixing the paint to perfection.

Avoid Drips

When painting with a brush, most people try to get rid of excess paint by scraping it against the rim of the can. Paint is wasted as it drips down the side of the can. Instead, try tapping or slapping the brush. More paint will remain at the end of the brush where it's needed, and the excess will fall back into the can. You'll be able to cover more area between dips, which is particularly important if you're making trips up and down the ladder.

Know Your Codes

Before you invest the time and expense painting the exterior of your home, make sure that you're aware of any building codes or restrictions in your area. Don't go to all the trouble of painting your stucco home a nice bright color if your neighborhood holds restrictions allowing only neutral tones. The height, size and color of fences and other outdoor appointments may also be held under code. Always check before painting, or all of your hard work may be in vain.

Go Lead-Free

It's imperative that you remove any old lead paint that may exist in your home. Lead paint can cause illness in children, including learning disabilities. Check your home for peeling paint that may be lead based. Window sills and wood trims are common culprits. If you find any old, peeling paint, scrape it off and repaint. Your home will not only look better, it will also be a safer place for your kids.

Take the Time to Prime

Careful preparation is the first step to getting the job done quickly and properly. Using a good quality primer can also save money, as you need to use less paint in the pricey top coat.

Look for other ways to save money by doing basic tasks. Taking an existing fence and giving it a new look beveling the edges with a rotary saw is a free and easy way to create a whole new look. Of course, a fresh coat of paint will complete the effect.

Painting your home really is an easy way to create more equity, and greater profit when you're ready to sell. Follow these steps and you'll get maximum payoff for minimum investment.

Article Source: http://www.thewahmshack.com/articledirectory/

About The Author:  Sadie Bedgegood is a frequent contributor to several well-known web sites, on lowes home improvement and home equity topics.

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