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Step-by-Step to Pro-Level Painting Results

  • Writer: Michael Carlucci
    Michael Carlucci
  • Jul 12
  • 3 min read
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How to Paint Your Walls Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking of giving your space a refresh? A new coat of paint can completely transform a room—but only if it’s done right. At Centro Paint, we know that great results come down to the right prep, the right products, and the right technique.

Whether you’re tackling your first DIY paint job or just want a smoother finish this time around, here’s our guide to painting walls the right way.


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Step 1: Get the Right Tools

Start with the right gear—quality makes a difference. You’ll need:


  • A high-quality roller and roller sleeve:

    • 3/8-inch nap for most finishes

    • 1/4-inch for glossy finishes

    • 1/2- or 3/4-inch for textured surfaces

  • A paint tray and tray liner

  • An extension pole (to comfortably reach top and bottom of walls)

  • A stepladder

  • A 2½-inch angled brush for precision work


Tip: Wash and dry your roller sleeves before use to remove any loose fibres that can ruin a smooth finish.


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Step 2: Prep the Walls

Clean walls = clean results. Use warm water and a sponge to wash away dust and grime. If you spot mildew, remove it completely with a mildew cleaner.

If you’re painting a bold colour or switching from dark to light (or vice versa), use a quality primer—especially one with a deep base for darker hues. Ask us in-store if you’re not sure what primer you need.


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Step 3: Cut In First

Before you grab the roller, “cut in” your edges. Using your angled brush, paint a few inches along the ceiling line, corners, baseboards, around outlets, and beside windows and doors. Cutting in gives you clean, crisp borders and makes rolling faster and more precise.


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Step 4: Load Your Roller Properly

Pour your paint into a tray with a liner, then roll your roller back and forth on the sloped part of the tray until it’s fully loaded. Avoid dunking the roller deep into the paint—it’ll only cause drips and uneven coverage.


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Step 5: Start Rolling the Right Way

Paint from top to bottom in small sections, overlapping each row slightly (around 3–5 inches or 7–12 cm). Apply light pressure—let the roller and the paint do the work. Pushing too hard can cause roller marks, streaks, or drips.


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Step 6: Let It Dry, Then Recoat

Two coats are best for colour richness and durability. Follow the drying times on your paint can (every product is a little different), and don’t rush the second coat. Once everything is fully dry and cured, you can put back your outlet covers, picture frames, and wall decor.



Pro Tip: Use Quality Paint

At Centro Paint, we recommend Benjamin Moore’s trusted interior lines:

  • Aura® Interior – premium durability and ultra-rich colour

  • REGAL® Select – loved by pros and homeowners alike

  • ben® Interior – ideal for first-time painters, with smooth touch-ups and drip resistance


These paints are powered by Gennex® Colour Technology for deep, lasting colour and exceptional performance.




Final Thoughts

Painting walls isn’t just about slapping on a coat—it’s about patience, prep, and precision. With the right tools, a bit of practice, and our expert guidance, your next project will look like it was done by a pro.


Need help choosing the right paint or gear? Stop by Centro Paint or visit us online at CentroPaint.ca. We're here to help you every step of the way.

 
 
 

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