Yes, You Always Need Two Coats of Paint

In almost every painting scenario, you will need at least two coats of paint. One coat will probably not give the coverage you need for a uniform color or texture and will not be as durable.

At PMV Painting, we’ve spent over two decades perfecting our process to bring our clients the highest-quality results on every project, no matter what. Here’s why applying at least two coats of paint is our standard and why it should be a best practice for any interior painting project.

Two Coats of Paint Ensures Uniform Color

Have you ever finished painting only to notice unevenly colored patches scattered across the wall? It’s normal for paint to look a little patchy as it dries. But it should begin to even out after a few hours. If not, then you may need another coat of paint.

Using at least two coats of paint is crucial for ensuring a uniform color on every wall of the room. The first coat is often not enough to cover the underlying surface, especially if you are covering a darker color with a lighter one. Without two coats, your walls could have a patchy look and uneven tone. A second coat smooths over any color inconsistencies and provides a uniform, professional finish.

Every PMV project starts with a consultation. We’ll take a look at the area you want to paint and determine ahead of time how many coats of paint we’ll need. Going from a dark red wall to a

neutral color might require a primer before the first coat. If you are covering old water or smoke stains, we’ll use a special primer to seal the wall before painting it.

Two Coats of Paint Evens Out the Texture

Applying two coats of paint not only gives you a uniform color, it also evens out the texture for a more consistent finish. The textured pattern of most rollers naturally has some thinner and thicker spots. With only one coat, the roller will apply paint with very small ridges and dips, which make your wall look strange and bumpy at a distance. You might even see the “tracks” of the roller going up and down the wall.

The way you prep a wall before painting is also important for getting an even texture. Some paints with a high sheen, like satin or semi-gloss, are almost too smooth. There’s nothing for the new paint to stick to, and you could end up with streaks or drips. We recommend sanding walls to even out the texture before painting them. We even shine an LED light on your wall to make sure we find any paint drips or other imperfections.

Two Coats of Paint Has More Durability

Two coats of paint also results in a more durable finish. Your walls or trim will be more resistant to chipping and will hold up better when cleaned. This is especially important for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms and for places that get a lot of wear and tear, like cabinets and baseboards.

Even though two coats of paint is more durable, remember to use appropriate cleaning products. For surfaces with a flat, satin, or eggshell finish, use only mild, nonabrasive cleaners. Harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard can wear away the paint. If you choose to work with PMV, we can help you decide which type of finish is best for your space and how to maintain it so it looks brand new.

Work With PMV for Flawless Results, Every Time

PMV Painting has been serving West Michigan since 2001. We are committed to going above and beyond to give our clients the highest-quality results and unparalleled service. Every part of our process, from the first estimate to the final walkthrough, is designed to create beautiful spaces that match your vision and last for many years to come. You can get started by scheduling a free painting estimate or contacting our office with any questions at 269.276.0907.

Posted in Kitchens, Residential Interior