One of the most common frustrations after painting is seeing the finish fade, peel or lose its lustre far sooner than expected. If you’re paying for a repaint of your unit, you want results that look good now and stand the test of time. In this article we discuss why paint quality and workmanship matter, what to ask your painter and how to guarantee long-lasting results.
What drives poor quality finishes
Several factors can lead to sub-par results: using cheap paint, oversimplified preparation (or none at all), insufficient drying time between coats, skipping primer and ignoring surface defects. These issues may be invisible at the start but become painfully apparent later — flaking, discolouration, patchy coverage, and more.
Key factors for a durable, top-tier finish
1. Surface preparation and priming
A durable paint job begins long before the colour goes on. Walls should be cleaned, patched, sanded and free of dust or grease. After that, a primer should be applied if surfaces are porous, previously damaged or if you’re painting a light colour over a dark one.
2. High-quality paint and supplies
Investing in good paint pays off. Professionally formulated paint offers better coverage, adhesion and colour retention. Cheap alternatives may require more coats, fade faster or give poorer finish.
3. Skilled application
Even the best paint will under-perform if applied incorrectly. The painter should use appropriate brushes/rollers, respect drying times, apply coats evenly and avoid texture inconsistencies. Techniques like maintaining a “wet edge” help prevent visible overlaps or roller marks.
4. Environmental and usage considerations
In a flat or unit, you may have heating, ventilation or sunlight exposure that affects paint durability. Ensure the paint brand and finish chosen are suited to your environment.
Questions to ask your painter
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Which brand and grade of paint are you using?
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Will you apply primer or an undercoat?
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How many coats will you apply, and what is the drying time between coats?
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What surface preparation will you conduct?
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What guarantee or warranty do you offer on your workmanship?
Why the extra cost is worth it
Choosing high-quality materials and skilled labour reduces the likelihood of early re-works, patching or repainting. A slightly higher upfront cost translates into fewer headaches and better long-term value for you as the owner.
Final thoughts & call to action
Don’t accept second-rate results for your unit painting — demand a finish that lasts. If you’d like a free consultation with a colour advisor, brand-comparison and detailed specification of the paints and methods used, we’d love to help. Request a quote today and ensure your paint job stands the test of time.