Expert Painting Tips & Guides

Professional advice from Quality Painting Group. Learn about paint preparation, choosing the right colors, and maintaining your Melbourne & Geelong properties.

21+
Years Experience
2,450+
Projects Completed
21,400+
Happy Clients

Featured Painting Guides

Expert insights and professional techniques from our 21+ years of experience in Melbourne and Geelong

Close up, side view, selective focus with copy space of unrecognizable hand wearing gloves, holding trowel, peeling off paint film from old wall. Paint removing, preparing surface for painting concept
Preparation

Complete Guide to Wall Preparation for Painting in Melbourne

Master the essential steps of wall preparation that ensure long-lasting, professional results. Learn about surface cleaning, patching, sanding, and priming techniques used by Melbourne's top painters.

Published: November 2024 8 min read
Read Full Guide
Set of painting tools on cyan background for DIY renovation and household improvement concept
Paint Types

Choosing the Right Paint Type for Melbourne's Climate

Navigate the world of paint types with our comprehensive guide. From acrylic to enamel, discover which paints work best for Melbourne's variable weather conditions and your specific project needs.

Published: December 2024 10 min read
Read Full Guide
Man Painting wall with paint roller and white paint at home, copy space
Standards

Professional Painting Standards: What to Expect from Quality Work

Learn about industry standards for professional painting work. Understand quality benchmarks, proper techniques, and what separates amateur work from professional results in Geelong and Melbourne.

Published: December 2024 12 min read
Read Full Guide
Plastering the wall using a trowel and starting plaster. The process of applying the starting plaster to the wall using a trowel.
Seasonal Tips

Best Times to Paint Your House in Melbourne and Geelong

Timing is everything in painting. Discover the optimal seasons for exterior and interior painting in Melbourne's climate, including temperature, humidity, and weather considerations for best results.

Published: November 2024 6 min read
Read Full Guide
Mid adult men using masking tape before painting the wall
Color Guide

Expert Color Selection Guide for Australian Homes

Master the art of color selection with insights from professional painters. Learn about color psychology, trending palettes, and how to choose colors that enhance your property value in Melbourne.

Published: December 2024 9 min read
Read Full Guide
Plasterwork and wall painting preparation. close up hand of craftsman applying plaster or filling drywall patch
Maintenance

Paint Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Paint Job

Maximize your investment with proper paint maintenance. Learn cleaning techniques, touch-up strategies, and preventive measures to keep your Melbourne property looking fresh for years to come.

Published: November 2024 7 min read
Read Full Guide

Need Professional Painting Services?

Put our 21+ years of experience to work for your Melbourne or Geelong property. Get a free quote today.

Expert Guide November 28, 2024 • 8 min read

Complete Guide to Wall Preparation for Painting in Melbourne

Master the essential steps of professional wall preparation that ensure long-lasting, flawless results. Learn the techniques Melbourne's top painters use for perfect paint adhesion and durability.

Why Wall Preparation is Critical in Melbourne's Climate

Melbourne's variable weather conditions - from scorching summers to wet winters - demand superior wall preparation. Poor preparation is the #1 cause of paint failure, leading to peeling, cracking, and premature fading. At Quality Painting Group, we've perfected our preparation process over 21+ years to ensure every paint job in Geelong and Melbourne lasts.

Step 1: Surface Assessment and Cleaning

Before any preparation begins, professional painters assess the surface condition. Common issues in Melbourne homes include:

  • Chalking: Common on north-facing walls due to UV exposure
  • Mould and mildew: Particularly in bathrooms and south-facing areas
  • Efflorescence: White salt deposits on masonry surfaces
  • Previous paint failure: Peeling or flaking from inadequate preparation

Professional Cleaning Process:

  1. High-pressure washing (3000+ PSI) for exterior surfaces
  2. Sugar soap cleaning for interior walls
  3. Mould treatment with specialized fungicides
  4. Degreasing kitchen and bathroom surfaces
  5. Allow 48-72 hours drying time

Step 2: Surface Repairs and Patching

Melbourne's clay soil movement can cause wall cracks, especially in older homes. Professional repair involves:

  • Crack assessment: Determining if cracks are structural or cosmetic
  • V-groove cutting: For cracks wider than 2mm
  • Quality filler application: Using flexible compounds for movement-prone areas
  • Hole repair: Professional patching of nail holes and damage
  • Caulking gaps: Sealing around windows, doors, and trim

Step 3: Sanding and Surface Smoothing

Proper sanding creates the ideal surface for paint adhesion. Our Melbourne painters use:

Interior Surfaces:

  • • 120-grit for general smoothing
  • • 180-grit for final finish
  • • Dust extraction systems
  • • Hand sanding for delicate areas

Exterior Surfaces:

  • • 80-grit for heavy preparation
  • • 120-grit for smooth finish
  • • Orbital sanders for large areas
  • • Detail sanders for trim work

Step 4: Primer Selection and Application

Primer selection is crucial for Melbourne's climate conditions. We choose primers based on:

Melbourne Climate Considerations:

Coastal Areas (Geelong):

Salt-resistant primers for metal surfaces and corrosion protection

City Areas:

Anti-graffiti and pollution-resistant formulations

Professional Tools and Equipment

Quality Painting Group uses professional-grade equipment for superior results:

  • Festool dust extraction systems for clean preparation
  • Wagner airless sprayers for primer application
  • Purdy brushes and Wooster rollers for cut-in work
  • 3M masking products for protection
  • Moisture meters to ensure proper drying

Common Preparation Mistakes to Avoid

Warning Signs of Poor Preparation:

  • Skipping primer on new or repaired surfaces
  • Insufficient cleaning before painting
  • Painting over loose or flaking paint
  • Using incorrect primer for substrate
  • Inadequate drying time between coats

Timeline and Weather Considerations

Melbourne's weather significantly impacts preparation timing:

Spring (Sep-Nov)

Optimal conditions for all preparation work

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Early morning preparation to avoid heat

Winter (Jun-Aug)

Extended drying times required

Need Professional Wall Preparation?

Let our experienced team handle the preparation for perfect, long-lasting results.

Expert Guide December 5, 2024 • 10 min read

Complete Guide to Paint Types for Melbourne's Climate

Navigate the world of paint types with expert insights. Discover which paints work best for Melbourne's variable weather and your specific project needs.

Understanding Melbourne's Climate Challenges

Melbourne's "four seasons in one day" climate presents unique challenges for paint performance. With temperatures ranging from below freezing to over 40°C, high UV exposure, and variable humidity, choosing the right paint type is crucial for longevity and appearance.

Melbourne Climate Factors:

  • • Temperature range: -2°C to 46°C
  • • High UV index (up to 14 in summer)
  • • Variable humidity (30-90%)
  • • Frequent temperature fluctuations
  • • Salt air exposure (coastal areas)
  • • Pollution and dust
  • • Heavy rain periods
  • • Strong winds and hail

Acrylic Paints: The Melbourne Standard

Acrylic paints are the gold standard for Melbourne homes, offering excellent durability and weather resistance.

✓ Advantages:

  • • Excellent UV resistance
  • • Fast drying (2-4 hours)
  • • Low odor and VOCs
  • • Easy cleanup with water
  • • Flexible - resists cracking
  • • Fade resistant

⚠ Considerations:

  • • Higher initial cost
  • • Requires proper surface prep
  • • Can be affected by extreme cold
  • • May need primer on some surfaces

Recommended Acrylic Brands for Melbourne:

Dulux Weathershield

15-year warranty, maximum weather protection

Taubmans Endure

Premium quality, excellent coverage

Resene Lumbersider

High-performance, low-sheen finish

Enamel Paints: For High-Traffic Areas

Enamel paints provide superior durability and are ideal for trim, doors, and high-traffic areas in Melbourne homes.

Enamel Paint Applications:

Interior Use:

  • • Kitchen cabinets and cupboards
  • • Bathroom vanities and trim
  • • Interior doors and frames
  • • Skirting boards and architraves

Exterior Use:

  • • Window frames and sashes
  • • Front doors and gates
  • • Metal railings and balustrades
  • • Garage doors

Specialty Paints for Melbourne Conditions

Anti-Mould Paints

Essential for Melbourne's humid conditions, particularly in bathrooms and south-facing rooms.

  • Dulux Wash & Wear with Mould Block Technology
  • Taubmans Easy Coat with Anti-Mould
  • British Paints 4 Seasons Low Sheen

Heat-Reflective Paints

Perfect for Melbourne's hot summers, these paints reduce heat absorption and energy costs.

Energy Savings Benefits:

  • • Up to 20% reduction in cooling costs
  • • Lower surface temperatures (up to 15°C difference)
  • • Extended roof life
  • • Improved indoor comfort

Eco-Friendly Paint Options

Melbourne homeowners increasingly choose environmentally responsible paints:

Low-VOC Paints

  • • VOC content < 50 g/L
  • • Safer for family health
  • • Minimal odor
  • • Quick return to normal use

Zero-VOC Paints

  • • No volatile organic compounds
  • • Ideal for nurseries & bedrooms
  • • Excellent for sensitive individuals
  • • Environmental responsibility

Paint Finish Guide for Melbourne Homes

Flat/Matt

Minimal reflection, hides imperfections

Best for: Ceilings, low-traffic walls

Low Sheen

Slight sheen, easy to clean

Best for: Living areas, bedrooms

Semi-Gloss

Durable, washable finish

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, trim

Gloss

High durability, easy maintenance

Best for: Doors, cabinets, metal

Cost Comparison: Paint Types in Melbourne

Paint Type Cost per Litre Coverage Lifespan
Budget Acrylic $35-50 10-12 sqm 5-7 years
Premium Acrylic $60-85 12-14 sqm 10-15 years
Quality Enamel $55-75 12-15 sqm 8-12 years
Specialty Paint $70-120 10-12 sqm 12-20 years

Need Paint Selection Advice?

Our experts can recommend the perfect paint type for your Melbourne property and budget.

Complete Painting Knowledge Base

Access all our expert guides in one place. Navigate directly to the information you need.

Expert Guide December 15, 2024 • 12 min read

Professional Painting Standards: What to Expect from Quality Work

Learn industry standards for professional painting work. Understand quality benchmarks and what separates amateur work from professional results.

Quality Benchmarks for Professional Painting

✓ Professional Standards Include:

  • • Comprehensive surface preparation
  • • Quality materials and tools
  • • Proper technique application
  • • Clean, straight lines
  • • Even coverage and finish
  • • Professional cleanup
  • • Detailed warranty coverage

✗ Warning Signs of Poor Work:

  • • Visible brush marks or roller texture
  • • Uneven coverage or color variation
  • • Paint drips or runs
  • • Sloppy cutting-in around edges
  • • Paint on windows, fixtures, floors
  • • Insufficient surface preparation
  • • No warranty or guarantee

Surface Preparation Standards

Preparation Checklist:

Interior Preparation:
  • □ Furniture protected or removed
  • □ Holes and cracks filled
  • □ Surfaces cleaned and degreased
  • □ Trim and fixtures masked
  • □ Appropriate primer applied
Exterior Preparation:
  • □ Pressure washing completed
  • □ Loose paint scraped and sanded
  • □ Timber repairs completed
  • □ Caulking gaps and joints
  • □ Weather-appropriate primer used

Application Standards

Professional painters follow strict application standards for optimal results:

  • Two-coat minimum: Always apply primer plus two topcoats
  • Proper drying time: Follow manufacturer's specifications
  • Weather conditions: Paint only in suitable conditions
  • Quality tools: Use professional brushes and rollers
  • Consistent technique: Maintain wet edge to avoid lap marks
Seasonal Guide November 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Best Times to Paint Your House in Melbourne and Geelong

Timing is everything in painting. Discover optimal seasons for exterior and interior painting in Melbourne's climate.

Spring (Sep-Nov)

🌸

Ideal conditions

15-25°C, Low humidity

Summer (Dec-Feb)

☀️

Good with precautions

Early morning work

Autumn (Mar-May)

🍂

Excellent choice

Stable weather

Winter (Jun-Aug)

❄️

Interior focus

Limited exterior work

Melbourne Weather Considerations

Avoid Painting When:

  • • Temperature below 10°C or above 35°C
  • • Humidity above 85%
  • • Rain forecast within 4 hours
  • • Strong winds (above 25 km/h)
  • • Direct sunlight on fresh paint

Ideal Conditions:

  • • Temperature 15-25°C
  • • Humidity 40-70%
  • • Light breeze (5-15 km/h)
  • • Overcast or indirect sunlight
  • • No rain for 24+ hours
Color Guide December 2, 2024 • 9 min read

Expert Color Selection Guide for Australian Homes

Master the art of color selection with insights from professional painters. Learn about color psychology and trending palettes.

Popular Color Schemes for Melbourne Homes

Classic Neutrals

Timeless whites, greys, and beige

Coastal Blues

Perfect for Geelong properties

Natural Greens

Harmonious with landscapes

Color Psychology in Home Design

Warm Colors (Reds, Oranges, Yellows):

  • • Create cozy, intimate spaces
  • • Stimulate appetite and conversation
  • • Best for living areas and dining rooms
  • • Can make rooms feel smaller

Cool Colors (Blues, Greens, Purples):

  • • Promote calm and relaxation
  • • Make spaces feel larger
  • • Ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms
  • • Work well in sunny rooms

2025 Color Trends for Melbourne

Trending Colors:

  • • Warm whites with undertones
  • • Sage greens and olive tones
  • • Soft terracotta and clay
  • • Deep navy and charcoal
  • • Mushroom and taupe shades

Avoiding Trends:

  • • Choose colors you genuinely love
  • • Consider your home's architecture
  • • Test colors in different lighting
  • • Factor in surrounding landscape
  • • Think long-term appeal
Maintenance Guide November 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Paint Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Paint Job

Maximize your investment with proper paint maintenance. Learn cleaning techniques and preventive measures for lasting results.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Monthly Tasks

  • • Visual inspection for damage
  • • Clean high-traffic areas
  • • Check for moisture issues
  • • Clear gutters and drains

Quarterly Tasks

  • • Thorough exterior cleaning
  • • Touch-up minor scratches
  • • Check caulking and seals
  • • Trim vegetation from walls

Annual Tasks

  • • Professional inspection
  • • Pressure wash exterior
  • • Major touch-up work
  • • Plan future repainting

Cleaning Techniques by Surface Type

Interior Surfaces:

Flat/Matt Paint:

Gentle dusting, spot cleaning with damp cloth

Semi-Gloss/Gloss:

Mild detergent solution, rinse and dry thoroughly

Exterior Surfaces:

General Cleaning:

Low-pressure washing, soft brush scrubbing

Mould/Mildew:

Specialized fungicide treatment, proper ventilation

When to Call Professionals

Contact QPG When You Notice:

  • • Widespread peeling or cracking
  • • Color fading or chalking
  • • Mould growth that returns after cleaning
  • • Structural damage affecting paint
  • • It's been 7+ years since last exterior paint
  • • Interior walls need refreshing

Ready to Put This Knowledge to Work?

Get professional advice and a free quote for your Melbourne or Geelong property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about our painting services in Melbourne and Geelong

How much does house painting cost in Melbourne and Geelong?

What's the best time of year to paint your house exterior in Geelong?

How long does it take to paint a house in Melbourne suburbs?

Do you provide free painting quotes in Geelong and surrounding areas?

What type of paint is best for Melbourne's climate?

Are you licensed and insured painters in Victoria?

Do you offer roof painting services in Geelong?

What preparation work is included in your painting services?

Can you paint during winter in Melbourne and Geelong?

Do you provide commercial painting services in Melbourne?

What warranty do you offer on painting work in Geelong?

How often should you paint your house exterior in Melbourne?

Do you provide colour consultation services in Geelong?

Can you paint weatherboard houses in Melbourne suburbs?

What suburbs around Geelong do you service?

Do you offer deck and fence staining services in Melbourne?

How do you protect furniture and plants during painting?

Can you paint brick houses in Geelong and Melbourne?

What payment methods do you accept for painting services?

Do you use eco-friendly paints in Melbourne and Geelong?

Can you paint high-rise apartments and units in Melbourne?

How do you handle lead paint in older Melbourne homes?

What happens if it rains during exterior painting in Geelong?

Do you provide emergency painting repairs in Melbourne?

How far in advance should I book painting services in Geelong?

Still Have Questions?

Get in touch with our experienced team for personalized advice and a free quote