DIY projects are a great way to breathe new life into your home without spending a fortune. Whether it’s repurposing an old, worn-out dresser into a stylish new piece or adding a fresh coat of paint to an outdated chair, DIY projects allow you to express your creativity and make significant changes on a budget. However, not everything in your home is a good candidate for a paint makeover. Certain household items can be harmed by painting, and you may find that it’s better to leave them as they are or replace them entirely.
In this article, we’ll delve into five common household features that should never be painted, according to experts. We’ll also provide some tips on how to handle these items and offer some advice for homeowners looking to take on a DIY project that is both creative and practical.
Bathtubs: A DIY Disaster Waiting to Happen
One of the most tempting DIY projects for homeowners is to repaint an old bathtub to make it look like new. Whether your bathtub has become worn, discolored, or simply doesn’t match your bathroom’s current aesthetic, the thought of painting it may seem like a quick and affordable solution. However, experts advise against this.
Why You Should Avoid Painting Your Bathtub
While it’s possible to buy special waterproof paints for tubs, it’s a job that’s better left to the professionals. When you paint a bathtub, the surface may look good initially, but it will not stand up to the constant exposure to heat, moisture, and cleaning chemicals that bathtubs experience regularly.
The Risk of Mold
The biggest risk in painting a bathtub is the potential for mold growth. According to Anthony Lara, president and CEO of Picazzo Painting in Miami, mold can thrive beneath the paint layer, especially with the constant moisture in a bathroom. Mold can lead to long-term health issues and is difficult and costly to remove.
The Solution
If your bathtub is old and worn, it may be best to replace it altogether. While this might seem like an investment, it could ultimately save you money in the long run. A professional refinishing service can also restore your tub, but if you’re looking for a more permanent and lasting solution, replacing the tub might be your best bet.
Door Knobs and Handles: Why Painting Is Not Ideal
Changing the look of your door hardware, like knobs and handles, is a simple way to update the style of your home. If you have some older brass or gold fixtures that no longer match your home’s aesthetic, the idea of giving them a fresh coat of paint may be tempting. However, this might not be the most effective solution.
Why You Shouldn’t Paint Door Knobs and Handles
Paint doesn’t adhere well to metal, especially if it has a glossy or shiny finish. The constant use of door handles, which are exposed to hand sweat and oils, will compromise the quality of the paint job. Over time, the paint can chip and wear off, resulting in a patchy and unattractive look.
The Solution
Instead of painting door knobs, you can consider refinishing them. If you love the shape but dislike the color or finish, refinishing is a good option. However, if the door hardware has lost its charm or doesn’t match your aesthetic, replacing the handles or knobs might be the better choice.
Floors: Paint Won’t Hold Up to Heavy Foot Traffic
When it comes to floors, painting can seem like an affordable way to update an old surface. For example, concrete floors, especially in basements, may appear to be an easy target for a coat of paint. While the idea might seem attractive at first, floors—especially in high-traffic areas—are generally not a good candidate for painting.
Why Floors Aren’t Ideal for Painting
Floors in high-traffic areas are subject to constant wear and tear. The constant friction, dirt, and moisture can cause paint to peel or fade quickly. In basements, where moisture can be a problem, the paint is even more likely to wear off within a year or so. Furthermore, the paints used for floors aren’t typically durable enough to withstand the daily pressure of foot traffic.
The Solution
Instead of painting your floors, consider using durable flooring options such as vinyl, tiles, or hardwood. Vinyl is an affordable option that is easy to install and is more durable than paint. It can also be a good DIY-friendly choice if you’re on a budget.
Appliances: The Dangers of Painting Electrical Devices
It can be tempting to paint an old fridge or dishwasher to match your updated kitchen design, especially if the appliances are still functional but don’t match the aesthetic you’ve created. However, painting appliances can be a risky and ineffective DIY project.
Why You Should Never Paint Appliances
Appliances are subject to frequent use, and their surfaces often become scratched, chipped, or worn over time. Painting them to cover up these imperfections is not a good solution because the paint will likely peel and chip off after continued use. Furthermore, painting electrical appliances can be dangerous. Most paints are flammable, and using them on an appliance that runs on electricity increases the risk of a fire or electrical malfunction.
The Solution
Rather than trying to paint your appliances, consider replacing them if the appearance is a major concern. In many cases, appliances have become more affordable, and buying a new one may be a better long-term investment. If the appliance is still in good working condition, you could also look into professional refinishing services designed for appliances.
Antiques: Preserve Their Value, Don’t Paint Them
Antiques are valuable not just for their craftsmanship but also for their historical and sentimental significance. If you find an antique piece that doesn’t quite fit your current decor style, painting it may seem like an easy fix. However, experts warn against painting these pieces.
Why You Shouldn’t Paint Antiques
The beauty and value of antiques lie in their original finishes, patina, and craftsmanship. When you paint over these items, you risk destroying their historical integrity and reducing their value. Once an antique is painted, it loses the character that makes it special.
The Solution
Instead of painting, consider cleaning or restoring the antique. Light cleaning and repairs can help preserve the item’s original charm without damaging it. If you really don’t like the look of the piece, selling it to someone who appreciates its history might be the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint my bathtub if it’s made of porcelain?
It’s not recommended to paint bathtubs, even if they are made of porcelain. The constant exposure to water and heat can cause the paint to peel and result in mold growth. A professional refinishing service is a safer option.
Is it safe to paint my door knobs and handles?
While you can paint door knobs and handles, the paint might not adhere well to metal surfaces, especially those with a shiny or glossy finish. It’s often better to replace the hardware or have it professionally refinished.
Why can’t I paint my floors?
Floors are subjected to heavy foot traffic and can quickly wear out any paint job. Painting them will likely result in chipping and fading. Instead, consider using durable flooring materials like vinyl, tiles, or hardwood.
Can I repaint my appliances?
It’s generally not safe to paint appliances. Paint can chip off, and using paint on electrical appliances can be hazardous due to the flammability of most paints. It’s better to replace the appliance or hire a professional for refinishing.
What should I do with an antique piece I don’t like?
It’s best to avoid painting antiques, as it can destroy their historical value and charm. Instead, try cleaning or restoring the item, or consider selling it to someone who appreciates its original condition.
Conclusion
While DIY projects can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to transform your home, it’s important to know when not to paint certain household items. Items like bathtubs, door knobs, floors, appliances, and antiques often don’t benefit from a fresh coat of paint and can even be damaged in the process. In some cases, it’s better to replace or professionally refinish these items rather than attempt to paint them yourself.
Before taking on a painting project, consider the long-term consequences and think about whether a different solution, such as replacement or professional restoration, might be more effective. By choosing the right DIY projects and knowing when to step back, you can make sure your home improvements are both beautiful and lasting.
