If you want to save on your construction or renovation budget, you can take care of that painting job yourself. But then you have to do it correctly. Could you still use some advice? Jens Johnson, professional painter at [url]paintitperfect.co.nz[/url], shares his best tips.

1. Choose paint
The range of paint types is huge. And it is not possible to ask for personal advice in the store. How do you know if you are ordering the right paint for your job? “It may be a cliché, but it's best not to save your paint,” says Jens. “Paint from the A-brands, which is usually a bit more expensive, simply lasts longer. Cheaper paint will require you to apply a new coat every few years. And in the long run you actually pay even more.” Jens himself prefers acrylic paint over latex paint. “ Acrylic flows together much better, you have less chance of streaks and it is also much more durable than latex.” Another tip: “The more matte the paint, the less you will see streaks and marks.”

No idea which colors you can combine? With these basic rules in mind, you can't go wrong.

2. Brushes and Rollers
In addition to paint, you also need brushes. And according to Jens there is also a lot of difference in quality. “Cheap brushes lose more hair while you're painting. For a normal painting job, so without special effects or structure, we use the same brushes for walls and ceilings.” Although you can also use a brush on a handle for a high ceiling. That is slightly safer than standing on a ladder if you are not used to this.

3. Good preparation
The most important thing for a nice result? “That's good preparation. Make sure your walls and ceilings are ready to paint by sanding down any irregularities first. Then you can cover everything with tape.” Jens prefers to work with yellow masking tape, regardless of the brand. “With white tape, glue residues are more likely to remain on the surface.” As soon as you're done taping, you can start. “It is best to finish all rooms where you are going to apply the same color at the same time as much as possible. Be sure to respect the drying time of the paint. We recommend at least 24 hours. This is important for the opaque effect of the paint.”

4. Paint Tips
Jens also has some practical advice for painting itself. “For example, always start with your ceilings first. Small splashes often end up on the walls. It would be a shame if you already painted it. Also always roll out wet paint in a wet area. This way you avoid triggers. With walls you also have to unroll the paint completely from top to bottom.”