January 24, 2025

FAQs About Interior Painting Projects

Interior painting can refresh your home and elevate its appeal, but it often comes with various questions. At Triboro Paint Center, serving North Attleborough and Warwick, Massachusetts, and Foxborough, Rhode Island, we’re here to answer your common painting concerns.

A painter using a paint roller to apply white paint to a prepped and taped-off wall near North Attleborough, MA
Our talented team can address topics like what paint preparation steps are, how long between coats of paint, how to choose the right finish, and how many cans of paint you’ll need. We have all the answers for you in our FAQs about interior painting projects.

How Long Between Coats of Paint?

Patience is key to a flawless finish. Typically, you should wait two to four hours between coats of latex paint. For oil-based paints, allow a full 24 hours for proper drying. Factors such as humidity, temperature, and ventilation can affect drying times.
Following these drying guidelines ensures even application and long-lasting results you’ll enjoy.

What Are the Paint Preparation Steps?

Proper preparation before painting is essential for a professional-looking result. A few steps you can follow include the following:

  1. Clean the surface: Remove dirt, grease, and dust with soap and water or a degreasing solution.
  2. Repair imperfections: Fill cracks, holes, and dents with spackle or filler, then smooth the area by sanding.
  3. Prime the walls: Use a primer for better paint adhesion and coverage, especially on new or previously dark-colored walls.
  4. Tape and cover: Use painter’s tape to protect the ceilings, trim, and fixtures and drop cloths to catch paint splatters and drips.

What Type of Finish Should I Get?

Choosing the right paint finish will depend on the room’s purpose and the desired look.
Here’s a quick and easy guide for paint finishes:

  • Flat or Matte: Flat or matte paint is best for low-traffic areas like bedrooms. It hides imperfections but isn’t washable and will leave streaks if you clean it.
  • Eggshell: An eggshell finish provides a subtle sheen, which is ideal for living and dining rooms.
  • Satin: Satin is durable and slightly shiny, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
  • Semi-Gloss: A semi-gloss finish is resistant to moisture and easy to clean. It’s great for trim, doors, and bathrooms.
  • Gloss: Gloss has a high shine and is durable, often used for accent pieces like cabinets or furniture.

If you’re still unsure which finish to pick, visit one of our Triboro Paint locations for expert advice and a vast selection of premium paints.

How Many Cans of Paint Do I Need?

Determining the right amount of paint depends on the size of your project. On average, one gallon of paint covers 350-400 square feet.
To estimate accurately:

  1. Measure the length and height of each wall.
  2. Multiply to find the total square footage.
  3. Divide the total by 350 or 400 for light coverage.

Remember to account for multiple coats or textured walls. To simplify the process, use our convenient Paint Calculator.

Why Choose Triboro Paint Center for Interior Painting Projects

At Triboro Paint Center, we’re more than just a paint store. We’re your trusted Benjamin Moore independent retailer for interior painting projects.
Our experienced sales associates are ready to assist with expert color matching, top-tier products, and exceptional service. We’re a family-owned small business that will always be happy to help you!

Start Your Interior Painting Project Today

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a professional, Triboro Paint Center has everything you need for a successful interior painting project. Contact us today for personalized assistance, and let’s bring your vision to life!

Triboro Paint has three convenient locations and serves Foxborough, North Attleborough, Plainville, Easton, Mansfield, Morton, and Attleboro, Massachusetts, and Warwick, East Greenwich, Cranston, Providence, and West Warwick, Rhode Island. Visit us today!

Written by Brooke Robison