Complete Guide to Painting Walls: Colour Tips, Mould Prevention, and Affordable Paint Sources (UK)
Published by F & E Home And Garden Essentials | Updated May 2025
Painting your home should feel rewarding, not overwhelming. Whether you're going bold with colour, tackling damp corners, or choosing finishes, this guide covers everything from mould treatment to selecting the right paint for every surface and room.
Tips for Painting Tough and Strong Colours
- Tinted primer: Use a grey or tinted primer under bold colours like navy or emerald for better coverage.
- High-quality tools: Use good brushes and rollers to avoid visible marks.
- Two full coats: Always apply two coats, allowing proper drying time in between.
- Edge work: Cut in around edges before rolling the rest of the surface.
How to Deal with Mould on Walls
Treating Existing Mould:
- Use a fungicidal wash like Ronseal 3-in-1 or HG Mould Spray (follow safety directions).
- Wear gloves and a mask; keep the area well ventilated.
- Never paint over mould — it seals spores in and worsens the problem.
Preventing Mould from Returning:
- Improve airflow using extractor fans or by regularly opening windows.
- Use anti-mould paint in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
- Insulate cold spots using thermal wallpaper or insulation boards.
Paint Types for Common Surfaces
- Living areas: Matt emulsion gives a soft, flat finish that hides imperfections.
- Bathrooms & kitchens: Mould-resistant emulsion with a sheen or silk finish for easy cleaning.
- Woodwork: Eggshell or Satinwood for a semi-gloss, durable finish on doors and skirting.
- Ceilings: Flat emulsion reduces glare and covers marks well.
- Metal (e.g., radiators): Heat-resistant metal paint in satin or gloss for a clean, heat-safe surface.
First Coat vs Final Finish
- First Coat (Primer/Undercoat): Prepares the surface and helps paint stick, especially important with dark colours.
- Final Finish (Topcoat): This is your colour and sheen layer — select based on room use and lighting.
Best UK Shops for Quality & Affordable Paint
- B&Q (DIY.com) – GoodHome, Dulux, Valspar
- Screwfix – Affordable trade paints
- Homebase – Deals and value bundles
- The Paint Shed – Online trade discounts
- Wilko – Budget paints and decorating tools
Recommended Paint Colours by Room
- Living Room: Warm neutrals, soft greens or blues
- Kitchen: White, sage, or terracotta
- Bedroom: Pale grey, blue or lavender
- Bathroom: Seafoam, white or light grey
- Home Office: Navy, sage green, or calming grey tones
What Colours Mean for Home Energy
- Blue: Calming – best for sleep spaces
- Green: Refreshing – ideal for kitchens
- Yellow: Uplifting – good for accents
- Red: Stimulating – suits dining areas
- White: Brightens small rooms
- Grey: Balanced and modern
Final Tip
Always test a paint sample on your wall and check it in different lighting throughout the day before fully committing.
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