8 Home Repairs You Shouldn’t DIY

Why You Need a Professional Painter in NYC

DIY home projects can be fun and cost-effective—but when it comes to painting your home, certain jobs are better left to the experts. Attempting complicated painting projects yourself can lead to messy results, uneven finishes, and even safety risks. Hiring a professional interior painter in NYC ensures flawless results that protect your investment and save you time.

When it comes to these 8 home repair and painting projects, you’re better off hiring a professional painter if you want to avoid potentially costly, complex, and time consuming issues.

1. Ceiling Painting

Painting ceilings is one of the trickiest jobs. Without the right ladders, rollers, and safety equipment, homeowners often end up with roller marks, uneven coverage, and paint splatters everywhere. A professional painter knows how to achieve smooth, clean finishes while protecting your space.

2. Damaged or Cracked Walls

Got cracks, dents, or old patchwork on your walls? A coat of paint won’t hide those flaws. Professional painters repair drywall, skim coat rough surfaces, and apply primer before painting—leaving your walls looking brand new.

Image Credit: Sherwin Williams

3. Trim, Doors & Molding

Clean trim lines separate a DIY job from a professional one. Homeowners often struggle with brush strokes and uneven edges around baseboards, crown molding, and window trim. Hiring an experienced and knowledgeable crew ensures crisp, flawless results every time.

4. Textured & Plaster Walls

Painting textured or plaster walls requires the right rollers, brushes, and techniques. Done incorrectly, the paint won’t adhere evenly and could damage the surface. Professionals understand how to work with delicate finishes while creating consistent coverage.

5. Bold Accent Walls & Dark Colors

Switching from dark to light paint (or vice versa) is more complicated than it looks. Without expert priming and layering, streaks and patchy areas are inevitable. A professional painter in NYC knows how to achieve rich, even coverage and create bold accent walls that truly pop.

6. High-Traffic Areas

Hallways, stairwells, and entryways need more than just a quick coat of paint. These high-use areas require durable paints and expert application techniques to stand up to daily wear and tear. A pro ensures these spaces stay polished longer.

7. Older or Historic Homes

Many NYC apartments and brownstones have original plaster, wood trim, or even lead paint. These surfaces require special handling to preserve historic details and comply with safety standards. A licensed NYC painting contractor is trained in lead-safe work practices and restoration techniques.

8. Lead Paint Concerns

Lead paint is still common in New York City buildings constructed before 1978, and a potential concern for home owners looking to paint or renovate. Improper sanding, scraping, or painting over lead can release hazardous dust and put your household at risk. Professional painters certified in EPA lead-safe practices know how to contain and remove lead hazards safely while complying with NYC regulations. If your home may contain lead paint, this is one project you should never attempt yourself.

Skip the DIY & Hire a Pro

Painting your home may look easy, but the difference between a DIY job and professional work is instantly noticeable. When you hire a painter, you’re not just paying for labor—you’re investing in:

• Time savings – No lost weekends prepping, taping, and fixing mistakes.

• Quality finishes – Flawless walls, ceilings, and trim that elevate your home.

• Durability – Professional techniques and materials mean your paint job lasts longer.

• Safety & compliance – Especially important in older NYC buildings with potential lead paint.

Looking to Get Started?

Brooklyn-based Undertone Interiors specializes in high-quality interior painting services in New York City, from ceiling painting and wall repair to detailed trim and molding finishes. Whether you’re updating your apartment, refreshing a brownstone, or preparing a property for sale, our professional team ensures your space looks its absolute best.

Contact us to discuss your project and set up a free in-home paint estimate.