Paint a room in a sensible order

Make the room ready, not just empty

Clear a safe working space, protect what remains and complete preparation before opening the finish paint. Clean dust from ledges and the floor so it cannot settle into fresh paint. Ensure suitable ventilation without creating a draught that dries one edge much faster than another.

A common sequence is ceiling, walls, then woodwork. Other sequences can work, but always avoid splashing a finished surface or taping over a coating that has not cured enough to tolerate it.

Work in manageable sections

Stir as directed and decant a working quantity. Cutting in means brushing the edges that the roller cannot reach. Roll adjoining areas while the brushed edge is still workable so the textures blend.

1. Begin with the ceiling if it is being painted, using safe access and a suitable pole.
2. On walls, brush a manageable section around edges and fittings without touching electrical parts.
3. Load the roller evenly. Spread paint without heavy pressure or squeezing the sleeve dry.
4. Overlap the preceding wet section, keeping a wet edge across the wall.
5. Finish with light, consistent strokes before the paint begins to tack.
6. Allow the specified recoat time, inspect and apply the required further coats.

Know when to leave it alone

Fresh paint can look uneven while drying. Returning to a half dry patch often creates more texture. Wait for it to dry before assessing coverage. If it needs correction, follow the preparation and recoat instructions rather than rubbing a brush into tacky paint.