When it comes to refreshing your home, painting seems like the simplest DIY job — until things go wrong. Uneven brush strokes, peeling walls, patchy colours and messy edges are all far more common than most homeowners realise.
At Emporium Decorators, we’ve spent years fixing these issues for clients across West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and beyond. This guide breaks down the 10 most common painting mistakes people make and how to avoid them, so you can understand what separates a quick DIY job from a professional finish.
1. Skipping Proper Surface Preparation
Preparation is the foundation of a quality finish. Many homeowners skip sanding, filling cracks, cleaning walls, or applying the correct primer.
Why it matters:
Paint cannot adhere properly to a dirty, glossy or uneven surface. This leads to peeling, cracking, and visible imperfections.
Avoid the mistake:
For expert-level preparation, explore our Interior Painting & Decorating service.
2. Using Low-Quality Paint or Tools
Cheap brushes shed bristles. Low-quality rollers leave texture marks. Budget paint requires more coats and fades quicker.
Avoid the mistake:
Invest in trade-quality brushes, rollers and paints — or let professionals handle it.
3. Choosing Colours Without Testing
Lighting dramatically changes how paint looks. Many homeowners pick a colour from a brochure and regret it after painting the entire room.
Avoid the mistake:
Test sample patches on multiple walls and observe them at different times of day.
You can also read our blog on colour planning:
👉 How to Choose the Right Colour Scheme for Any Room
4. Painting Over Damp or Mould
This is a major issue in older UK homes. Painting over damp hides the problem temporarily — but it always returns.
Avoid the mistake:
Identify the source of moisture first. Damp-proofing may be needed before painting.
5. Overloading the Brush or Roller
Thick, overloaded tools cause drips, streaks and uneven coverage.
Avoid the mistake:
Use thin, even coats and allow proper drying time between layers.
6. Ignoring Cutting-In Techniques
Cutting in (the technique used around edges and corners) requires skill. DIY attempts often result in wavy or messy edges.
Avoid the mistake:
Use painter’s tape or hire a professional for sharp, clean lines.
7. Painting Too Quickly
Rushing leads to visible start-and-stop marks, roller lines, and inconsistent texture.
Avoid the mistake:
Paint steadily and maintain a "wet edge" to avoid overlap marks.
8. Poor Timing and Weather Conditions
Even indoor painting is affected by temperature and humidity. Too warm? The paint dries too fast. Too cold? It won’t cure properly.
Avoid the mistake:
Plan painting projects during stable conditions and ensure proper ventilation.
9. Using the Wrong Paint Finish
Choosing between matte, eggshell, satin or gloss isn’t just about preference — each serves a purpose.
Avoid the mistake:
Let our experts guide you with the right choices during a consultation.
10. Underestimating the Time & Skill Needed
Painting seems simple until you start. Proper decorating demands patience, control and experience — something homeowners often don’t have time for.
Avoid the mistake:
If you want long-lasting, flawless results, hiring professionals like Emporium Decorators is the best investment you can make.
👉 Contact Us for a free quote.
Why These Mistakes Cost More in the Long Run
DIY errors lead to:
A skilled decorator delivers:
Explore our gallery to see the difference:
👉 View Our Work
When Should You Call a Professional Painter?
You should consider hiring a professional when:
Our team covers:
Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Halifax, Huddersfield, Dewsbury, York, Harrogate, Ripon, Knaresborough and surrounding areas.
Final Thoughts
Painting your home should enhance the look and feel of your space — not create stress or disappointment. By avoiding these common mistakes (or by hiring experts), you’ll enjoy a smooth, clean, professional result that lasts for years.
