Thinking about tackling a paint project in your Saint Augustine home? Whether it’s a quick touch-up or a full room refresh, having the right tools makes all the difference. At Taylor Signature Painting, we’ve painted countless homes and businesses across the area, and while we’re pros at the big jobs, we love empowering homeowners for the small ones. Here’s our Painting 101 guide to the must-have tools every homeowner should own—get these, and you’ll be ready for anything!
1. Quality Paintbrushes
- Why You Need Them: For cutting in edges, trim, and small details.
- Pick This: A 2-inch angled sash brush with synthetic bristles—great for water-based paints and Florida’s humid conditions.
- Pro Tip: Skip the cheapies; a good brush saves time and streaks.
2. Rollers and Covers
- Why You Need Them: For fast, even coverage on walls and ceilings.
- Pick This: A 9-inch roller frame with 3/8-inch nap covers for smooth surfaces, or 1/2-inch for textured walls common in Saint Augustine homes.
- Pro Tip: Keep extras on hand—cleaning between coats is a hassle.
3. Paint Tray and Liners
- Why You Need Them: To load your roller without a mess.
- Pick This: A sturdy metal or plastic tray with disposable liners for easy cleanup.
- Pro Tip: In our humid climate, paint dries fast—liners keep it simple.
4. Drop Cloths
- Why You Need Them: To protect floors and furniture from drips.
- Pick This: Canvas for indoors (it stays put), plastic for outdoors.
- Pro Tip: Tape edges down—Saint Augustine breezes can lift them!
5. Painter’s Tape
- Why You Need It: For crisp lines around trim, windows, and doors.
- Pick This: Blue or green tape that peels off clean after a day.
- Pro Tip: Press it down tight to avoid bleed-through.
6. Putty Knife and Filler
- Why You Need Them: To patch holes or cracks before painting.
- Pick This: A 2-inch flexible putty knife and quick-dry spackle.
- Pro Tip: Smooth prep is key for old Saint Augustine walls.
7. Sandpaper or Sanding Block
- Why You Need It: To smooth patched areas or rough surfaces.
- Pick This: Medium-grit (120-150) for most jobs.
- Pro Tip: Sand lightly—overdoing it can mess up your finish.
8. Ladder or Step Stool
- Why You Need It: To reach ceilings, high walls, or exterior spots.
- Pick This: A stable step stool for indoors, a 6-foot ladder for outside.
- Pro Tip: Safety first—check it’s steady on uneven ground.
Bonus: A Can Opener and Stir Stick
- Why You Need Them: To open and mix paint properly.
- Pick This: Freebies from the store work fine!
- Pro Tip: Stir well—Florida’s heat can separate paint in the can.
When to Call the Pros
These tools are perfect for DIY touch-ups or small rooms, but for big jobs—exteriors, cabinets, or whole-house refreshes—Taylor Signature Painting has the gear and know-how to save you stress. We tackle Saint Augustine’s humidity and historic quirks with ease.
Get Painting!
With these essentials, you’re set to handle basic projects like a pro. Need tools or advice—or just want us to take over? Contact Taylor Signature Painting for a free consultation today. We’ll help your Saint Augustine space shine, DIY or not!
What’s your go-to painting tool?
