When it comes to painting the interior walls of your home, the color you choose can make a dramatic difference in the overall look and feel of a room. While there are countless paint colors to choose from, some are definitely more difficult to work with than others. The hardest wall colors to paint tend to be those that require multiple coats to achieve an even, opaque finish. Very dark colors like black or navy blue are notoriously tricky, as are bright whites. So what exactly makes certain paint colors more challenging? Here are some of the key factors:
Opacity
One of the biggest reasons some paint colors are harder to work with comes down to opacity. Opacity refers to how well a paint color covers the existing wall color underneath. Paints with low opacity will require applying multiple coats to fully hide the original wall color. Whites, light grays, and pastels tend to have poor opacity compared to deeper, more saturated hues. Even if you prep the walls properly, these sheer paint colors let some of the existing color show through, resulting in visible imperfections. Multiple coats are necessary to achieve an evenly colored surface.
Undertones
The undertone of a paint color also impacts the difficulty level. Cool-toned grays and blues tend to cover better than warm earth tones like taupes, tans, and browns. The natural yellow/red undertones in warmer paint colors make getting an even finish more challenging. Multiple coats may be needed to combat any splotchiness or uneven patches with these undertones.
Dark Colors
Darker colors like black, charcoal gray, navy blue and deep purples are very hard to get perfectly smooth and even. Since dark paint naturally highlights any imperfections, achieving a flawless finish is difficult. Multiple coats must be applied carefully and evenly to avoid visible brush strokes and lap marks. Any touch-ups will stand out clearly against the dark backdrop. Those with textured walls may want to avoid very dark paint colors altogether.
Bright Whites
On the opposite end of the color spectrum, bright whites like gloss or semi-gloss are also challenging to apply smoothly and evenly. Since the eye is extra sensitive to any impurities with white, achieving a perfect true white surface is difficult. Yellowing or dinginess will show clearly. Whites require a smooth, blemish-free surface and multiple coats for good coverage. Consider choosing an off-white like Alabaster or Extra White for better coverage.
Metallic/Iridescent Colors
Trendy metallic, pearlescent and iridescent paints have become popular for accent walls. However, these chameleon-like paints shift color depending on lighting and application technique. It can be tricky achieving an even finish without splotchiness or color variations. Be sure to follow application directions carefully when using these paint types.
Unsuitable Wall Surfaces
Even quality paint can only cover up imperfections so much. Painting over damaged, textured or unfinished surfaces will make achieving an even color more difficult. Flaws like stains, cracks, glossy areas, spackle patches and existing colors will likely show through the new paint. Proper prep work like patching holes, sanding, priming and using spackle is key for difficult colors.
Application Techniques
Improper application techniques can make achieving an evenly colored surface harder. Ensure walls are properly cleaned and primed before painting. Use high-quality applicator tools like Purdy or Wooster brushes. Apply paint in a thin, even coat using overlapping “W” or criss-cross motions. Work from top to bottom in 2-3 foot sections. Allow proper drying time between coats. Sand lightly between coats for very smooth finishes.
Insufficient Coats
Applying enough coats is crucial for full coverage, especially with lighter, sheerer paint colors. Be prepared to apply at least 2-3 coats of problematic paint colors. Allow proper drying time between coats. Rushing the painting process can result in uneven coverage. Patience is a virtue when painting difficult colors. Consider using paint with built-in primer for better coverage in fewer coats.
Wrong Sheen Level
Pay attention to the sheen level you select. Flat or matte finishes naturally help hide imperfections better than glossy sheens. Eggshell and satin are good compromises, providing some subtle sheen while still covering well. Gloss and semi-gloss accentuate flaws and require extra skill. Make sure to get the right sheen for the specific wall surface.
Too Thin/Thick Consistency
Achieving the ideal paint consistency and thickness is also key. Paint that is too thin can drip and splatter during application. Overly thick paint can leave visible brush strokes. Closely follow the thinning directions on the paint can. Typically, latex wall paints should be thinned with water by no more than 10%. Over-thinning risks poor coverage.
DIY vs Professional Painter
An experienced professional painter will have an easier time flawlessly applying difficult colors versus an amateur DIYer. Pros have the skills, tools and knowledge to prep surfaces, choose appropriate paints, and apply multiple coats smoothly and evenly. If you’re a rookie, stick with easier light to medium colors for best results.
Tips for Painting Tricky Colors
Here are some top tips to make painting challenging colors a bit easier:
- Remove wall hardware and outlet covers
- Fill holes, prime and sand walls
- De-gloss shiny surfaces
- Choose quality applicator tools
- Use painter’s tape for clean edges
- Apply paint in thin, even coats
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Lightly sand before final coat
- Work methodically in sections
- Maintain wet edge as you paint
Hardest Interior Wall Colors to Apply
Based on opacity, coverage and application difficulty, here are some of the most challenging interior wall colors:
| Hardest Paint Colors |
|---|
| Bright whites or pastel whites |
| Jet black |
| Dark charcoal grays |
| Navy blue |
| Dark purple |
| Canary yellow |
| Burnt orange |
| Metallic gold/silver |
Easiest Wall Colors to Apply
For beginner DIY painters, these wall colors provide good coverage with minimal frustration:
| Easiest Paint Colors |
|---|
| Light to medium blues |
| Soft grays |
| Beige |
| Greige (gray/beige) |
| Taupe |
| Mocha |
| Buff |
| Green |
| Violet |
Conclusion
When embarking on interior painting projects, choose wall colors wisely based on room size, lighting, and your skill level. While deep, dark paint colors do create dramatic effects, the application is harder and less forgiving of imperfections. Sheer whites and pastels also require expert technique to avoid visible flaws. For best results as an amateur painter, stick with lighter mediums, neutral taupes, grays, and easier accent colors like sage green or sky blue. With proper prep and application methods, even tricky paint colors can turn out beautifully. Just be prepared for a few extra coats of paint!