Are you eager to begin a project to paint stairs around your property, but you’re unsure where to start? The experts from Marketplace Paints are here to inform you of all the specifics with a simple-to-follow step-by-step guide to stairs painting. If you need further assistance after you’re through with your review, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any of our three stores in Greenwood, Aiken, or North Augusta, SC. It’s time to get started!

Preparation for DIY Painting

Before starting any painting project, you must fully understand the dos & don’ts of painting stairs. The first and perhaps most crucial step is getting yourself adequately prepared. Painting is one of those projects that, when you start, you have to keep going.

The painting supplies you’ll come across might be a bit overwhelming at first. It can be challenging to decide what you need and what’s a waste of money if you’ve never done any painting work before. In most instances, this is plenty to get you started:

• Paint brushes
• Paint rollers and holders
• Drop cloths
• Rags for cleaning
• Ladder
• Paint
• Sandpaper

You may already have some of this stuff lying around, but if you don’t, it’s recommended that you go and stock up. You’ll be glad to have the extra assistance when the time comes and your stair painting project starts to get complicated.

Getting the Stairs Ready

Now it’s time to prepare your stairs for their first coat of fresh paint. When you do DIY painting, remember it’s probably a bigger job than you think. The more you can adequately prepare, the smoother everything will be.

1. Remove any carpet, existing paint, or other materials that may be on the stairs.
2. Get a high-quality cleaning solution and wipe everything down thoroughly.
3. Allow it all to dry, and take a vacuum to clean up any extra debris.
4. Sand and prime the area for it to be fully painted.

The more time you spend putting time, energy, and focus into getting the job done flawlessly, the easier it will be to complete the painting process. Ensure you take the proper precautions when working, including adequate ventilation, safety equipment, and methods for moving around the area.

Selecting the Paint

Benjamin Moore and Richards Paints are two brands available at Marketplace Paints, and they’re some of our best sellers. They’re bright, durable, and affordable, making them ideal for many homeowners. It is essential that you select a paint that can be walked on, if applicable. When choosing a color paint, check out what is available based on the right way to choose paint. Here are some of the best types of stairs:

• Epoxy – is durable and resistant, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. If applied correctly, it can also create some slip resistance.
• Latex – is versatile, durable, and easy to clean. Look for latex paints specifically for high-traffic areas.
• Acrylic – Dries quickly and can handle a lot of foot traffic. Durable.
• Urethane is usually only used in commercial settings but can also be used in homes—very high durability.
• Non-Slip – These paints are formulated with a gritty texture to reduce slip and make it safer.

Any of these listed may be good options for painting stairs. Oil-based paints are also an option, but they come with environmental concerns, take a long time to dry, and tend to turn yellow, so they’re not recommended.

Painting Techniques

Finally, it’s time to paint! You can use different methods like rolling, spraying, or painting. It’s up to you and what you’re most comfortable with. Properly drape and protect the surrounding areas; you won’t have to worry about doing it wrong.

Here are a few don’ts to keep in mind when considering the dos & don’ts of painting stairs:

• Skip taping and masking: Take the time to adequately cover all areas around the stairs so you don’t overflow or spill in places you don’t mean to.
• Overload the brush or roller: Too much paint on your brush or roller will lead to drips, blemishes, and a mess.
• Paint against the grain: If you’re painting wood stairs, try not to paint against the grain. It can make the stairs look uneven and unprofessional.
• Walk on them too soon: Give your surfaces plenty of time to dry, or you might have to repaint smudged areas.

Painting requires some skill, a little time, and a lot of patience. If you want professional-looking results, don’t rush the process. Be sure to block out enough time so you won’t be overwhelmed or stressed by how long it takes to complete.

The Finishing Touches

Finally, take some time after everything is dry to check over your work meticulously. Clean up blemishes and spills and check for unevenness or missing patches. It’s better to take care of it now while you still have everything readily available than wait until it’s all done.

Clean up all your masking, tape, and supplies. The last thing to do is stand back and enjoy your work. It’s quite an accomplishment and can make a big difference to any space.

Marketplace Paints Will Help You Get Started

Now that you’re armed with all this knowledge about how to paint stairs like a pro, it’s time to stock up on your supplies. Marketplace Paints has everything you’re looking for. You can visit us at one of our three locations in Greenwood, Aiken, or North Augusta, SC. For your convenience, you can order your paint online by visiting us at https://shop.marketplacepaints.com/. Additionally, you are encouraged to reach out by phone to get expert guidance from our professionals.