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My name is Tom Lopatosky. I'm the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) and I'm honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

Why 2 Coats Of Paint Is Not ALWAYS The Answer
When it comes to painting, one of the common themes I have heard along the way in the 30+ years we have been in business, is the almost default mechanism of many folks – homeowners, contractors, etc. – to simply assume that any time something is painted, it is necessary to put 2 coats of paint on.

While this may be a “feel good” approach, this is far from the correct way of doing things and many times can even contribute to unnecessary mil thickness (the way we measure paint coating thickness) buildup and may actually lead to premature failing of the paint coatings.

Though painting a room, a house, or even a piece of furniture seems simple (just grab a brush, apply two coats of paint, and you’re done, right?), this is not always the case and although two coats of paint often provide good coverage, there are times when fewer or even more than 2 coats may be needed.

The number of coats depends on several factors, including the type of paint, the color you’re covering, the surface you’re painting, and the quality of the first coat.

1. The Type of Paint Matters

Not all paints are the same. Some high-quality paints have excellent coverage and may only need one coat, while cheaper or thinner paints might require three or more coats to look right. Paints with primer mixed in can also help reduce the number of coats needed. On the other hand, some specialty paints, such as textured or metallic finishes, may require extra coats to achieve the desired look.

2. The Color You’re Covering Makes a Difference

One of the biggest factors in determining how many coats of paint you need is the color underneath. If you are painting a light color over a dark one—like turning a deep red wall into a soft beige—you will probably need more than two coats. Dark colors can show through light colors, creating a shadowy or streaky look. In this case, using a primer first can help reduce the number of coats needed.

Similarly, if you’re going from a light color to a dark one, you might also need extra coats. Bright or bold colors, such as yellow or bright blue, often need more coats to look smooth and even. Some pigments don’t cover as well as others, so even with two coats, the old color might still show through.

3. The Surface You’re Painting Can Affect Coverage

Different surfaces absorb paint differently. A smooth, sealed wall will usually need fewer coats than a rough or porous surface like unfinished wood or textured drywall. New drywall, for example, soaks up paint because it is very dry. In this case, applying a primer first helps create a smoother surface, so you won’t need as many coats of paint.

If the surface is stained or damaged, that can also impact how well the paint covers. Water stains, smoke damage, or grease spots might bleed through the paint, even after two coats. Using a stain-blocking primer before painting can help solve this problem.

4. The Quality of the First Coat Is Important

How well you apply the first coat can make a big difference. If the first coat is thin, uneven, or patchy, a second coat may not be enough. Proper technique—such as using the right brush or roller, applying even strokes, and allowing enough drying time between coats—can help achieve better results with fewer coats.

5. Sometimes, One or Three Coats Is Better

In some cases, one coat is enough, especially if you’re using high-quality paint and painting over a similar color. However, if the surface is difficult or the color is tricky, you may need three or more coats. It’s important to assess the situation rather than assume two coats will always work.

In the end, the number of coats needed depends on many factors. Choosing the right paint, preparing the surface properly, and using good painting techniques can all help you get the best results—whether that takes one coat, two coats, or more.

About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the "Personable, Particular Professionals" – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI's Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly PROTalk Home Improvement Radio Show! Tom has also written a book ‘The Care And Maintenance Of A New England Home’ (available on Amazon or through Barnes & Noble), detailing what he believes every New England Homeowner should be acutely aware of while owning a home in the region.