How to Paint Over a Dark Color

There’s no need to look with dread at a room painted in a dark shade when you prefer a lighter hue. Making the change is not difficult to do once you know how to paint over a dark color. A total lack of patience is one possible hitch, and a lack of sufficient time to do the job right is another. In such cases, simply call the pros at Franklin Painting to do the work. Otherwise, you can breathe easy and transform any room with dark walls into a lighter version of itself by following the steps below.

Gather the Right Equipment

To achieve professional results as you paint over a dark color with a light shade, begin with the correct equipment. The rollers, brushes, primer, and paint you buy must all be high-quality products. They also need to be the specific items you need for the job.

■ Rollers should have a thicker nap when the wall surface is rough. A thinner nap is perfect when the wall is smooth.

■ Buy top-quality primer and paint, which means only buying proven brands such as Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore.

■ The primer you need for painting over a dark color contains a high amount of binder and pigments. These components do the job of blocking out the dark color underneath.

■ When switching from dark paint to a light color, choose a white primer. (Note: Do not make the common mistake of using a darker
primer such as gray because the results will
be less than satisfying.)

Prep Properly

Proper surface prep is the standard procedure for any painting project, and it is especially crucial when painting over dark paint with a light color. Prepping to paint involves the following basic steps, though getting rid of mold and mildew are examples of circumstances in which more than the basic may be required:

• First, patch and repair nail holes and other wall blemishes.
• Using a microfiber cloth, thoroughly wipe down surfaces to remove dust.
• Use a mild cleaner and rag to remove smudges and stubborn stains.
• In the kitchen, a degreaser is also needed during the cleaning process.
• Use a scraper to remove peeling or chipped paint and sand well.
• As needed after the cleaning process, allow the surface to dry completely.

Apply Two Coats of Primer

When you are blocking out a dark paint color, two coats of primer should be applied. Lay the paint on thick and allow each coat to dry thoroughly before continuing to the next step.

Apply Paint

The prep and primer have provided the necessary groundwork for a great finish. Apply your chosen light paint using pro tips. Keep in mind that professional painters who deliver excellent workmanship have job security for a reason. If you are not confident that you can give the necessary time and care to a home interior or exterior painting project, contact the professionals at Franklin Painting.

No matter what your painting needs, you don’t need to know things like how to paint over a dark color. Rely on our professional painting crew at Franklin Painting to deliver unbeatable results.

Call 877.646.7774 today or contact us online to schedule an appointment for a free estimate!