How Many Coats Are Really Necessary?

March 25, 2025

Does Your Wall Need Another Coat? Here's How to Tell

You’ve prepped your space, chosen the perfect colour, and are elbow-deep in your painting project. But now comes the golden question—how many coats should you apply? Trust me, every DIYer has wrestled with this. Too few coats, and you risk an uneven finish. Too many coats, and you’re just making extra work for yourself. So, what’s the magic number? Let’s talk paint coverage, surface types, and a few insider tricks to help you get it just right.

One Coat Wonder—or a Recipe for Disaster?

Wouldn’t it be great if one coat did the trick every time? Some paints promise full coverage in a single coat, but let’s be honest—it’s often a bold claim. Whether you'll need multiple coats depends on a few things:

Colour Contrast: Painting a light colour over a dark shade? One coat won’t cut it. Expect at least two or more for full opacity.
Paint Quality: High-quality paints like Haymes Paint offer better coverage per coat, reducing the need for extra layers.
Surface Condition: Rough or porous surfaces, such as unfinished plaster or timber, tend to absorb more paint. Starting with a primer helps.

Some paints are designed with superior coverage, but even then, a second coat ensures a smoother, more durable finish. So while one coat might work under certain conditions, it’s rarely the safest bet.

Two Coats: The Industry Standard

Applying two coats of paint is the sweet spot for most projects. The first coat establishes the base, while the second smooths out inconsistencies and deepens the colour. With paints like Haymes Interior Wall Paint, two coats usually give you vibrant, professional results. Make sure the first coat is fully dry before applying the second—rushing this step can cause peeling or streaks.

Three Coats? Sometimes, Yes

There are times when two coats won’t satisfy your walls. Here’s when to consider a third:

Dramatic Colour Changes: Switching from deep navy to crisp white? A third coat might be needed to eliminate traces of the original colour.
Cheap Previous Paint: If you’re painting over a lower-end paint, it might take a third coat to even out the finish.
High-Traffic Areas: Kitchen and hallway walls endure wear and tear. An extra coat adds durability, helping your paint last longer.

Don’t Forget the Undercoat!

Skipping the primer is like trying to bake a cake without first greasing the pan—things might not go as planned. A quality undercoat, such as Haymes Prep Coat, ensures better adhesion, reducing the number of top coats required. It’s particularly helpful when painting over dark or glossy surfaces.

Final Thoughts

The golden rule? When in doubt, two coats are your safest choice. With high-quality paint and the right preparation, you’ll achieve a durable, professional-looking finish with fewer headaches. Take your time, trust the process, and watch your walls achieve their full potential.

Happy painting!
Candeece