What to Tackle First in Your Home Refresh
If you’re planning to update your home with a fresh coat of paint this summer, you may be wondering:
Should I start with the inside or the outside?
At PM Painters & Decorators, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Hertfordshire and London refresh their properties—both inside and out. Whether you’re giving your home a full makeover or simply freshening up a few rooms, the order of painting matters more than you might think.
Here’s how to decide which area to prioritise—and why it can make a difference.
🏡 Start with Exterior Painting If…
The Paint Is Peeling or Weather-Damaged
Flaking paint, visible cracks, or faded finishes are signs your exterior needs attention. These aren’t just cosmetic concerns—they can lead to moisture getting into the walls, rot, and long-term structural issues.
“Summer is the perfect time to repaint your exterior—mild temperatures and dry conditions help paint adhere better and last longer,” says our lead decorator.
2. You Want to Improve Kerb Appeal
If you're planning to sell, rent, or simply make a good impression on guests, a freshly painted front door, fascia, or rendered wall can dramatically boost kerb appeal.
🛋️ Start with Interior Painting If…
You Have Rooms You Can Empty or Close Off
Interior painting is often easier to manage first—especially if rooms can be cleared or isolated from the rest of the home. Bedrooms, lounges, and kitchens are great candidates for a quick refresh.
Our decorators always:
Protect furniture and flooring
Minimise dust and disruption
Use low-odour, fast-drying paints
You’re Planning Renovation Work
If you’re upgrading a kitchen, changing lighting, or replacing flooring, it’s best to schedule painting after the messy jobs are finished, but before final fittings go in. That way, we can paint more cleanly around sockets, skirting boards, and built-in units.
⚖️ When to Do Both at the Same Time
Doing both interior and exterior painting at once can:
Save money on setup and labour
Minimise the number of tradespeople coming and going
Deliver a cohesive new look, inside and out
If time and budget allow, this is often the most efficient option.
🎨 Colour Advice
If you're planning to paint both inside and outside, choose a harmonised palette. For example:
Soft greys or off-whites for interiors
Deep navy or sage green for front doors
Neutral tones with pops of colour in hallway or living spaces
Need help choosing? Our decorators can advise you on the best finishes and colour trends that suit both modern and period homes.
🧑🎨 Why PM Painters & Decorators?
We’ve been transforming homes across St Albans, Hatfield, Watford, and North London for over 20 years. Whether it’s a single room or a full-scale renovation, we bring:
Attention to detail
Professional, tidy workmanship
Clear, fair pricing with no hidden extras
📩 Ready to Get Started?
If you’re unsure where to begin—inside or out—get in touch for a free site visit and tailored advice. We’ll assess your space and recommend the best approach for your goals, timeframe, and budget.
📞 Call us on +44 7877 509464
📩 Or Request a quote below