Are you losing money at Bunnings? Avoid this 'cheap' blunder home renovators are making!

When it comes to home improvement and DIY, Bunnings Warehouse is a name that resonates with many Australians.

It's the go-to place for tools, materials, and advice for sprucing up homes.

However, even the savviest of shoppers could fall into traps, especially when cost-cutting.


Professional renovator Jade Compston shared a word of caution for everyone trying to save a few dollars at Bunnings.

The budget home renovator warned against purchasing cheap painting tools, which may seem like a bargain at first glance.

'If you buy a cheap $3 brush, then be prepared to spend most of your time picking the bristles off the wall as it disintegrates in your hands as you paint,' Compston shared.


compressed-painted walls.jpeg
Jade Compston showcased one of her recent painting projects on social media. Image Credit: Instagram/Jade Compston


The same goes for paint rollers. While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, Compston urged homeowners to invest in a strong and reliable roller.

'Go for a strong and reliable roller like a UniPro micro fibre roller, which will cost around $18 but give such a smooth finish,' Compston added.

'My favourite is the 100 mm model as while it is smaller, it's easier to work with, and the result is always even.'


Compston suggested mid-range brushes from Monarch or UniPro, priced at around $15.

These brushes should do the job properly and leave a professional-looking finish on DIY painting projects.

Beyond tools, Compston talked about the importance of preparation when doing home projects.

She reminded DIY enthusiasts to always read instructions on paint cans, brushes, and roller packages.

This simple step ensures a polished look and can prevent several issues later on.

'A fresh coat of paint can change everything in a room—the look and how you feel within it,' Compston shared.

'It's the same when I am repainting an old chest of drawers or table—repainted in a smart colour, and it can look better than it ever did when it was brand new.'


For those looking to achieve the best results with paint, Compston shared her secrets.

She recommended using a paint roller in one direction, overlapping each new layer by at least half of the previous one.

She prefers water-based paints for their ease of use and clean-up, but enamel-based paints are an excellent option for darker colours.

When it comes to design, Compston always opts for bold statements on a budget.

Watch one of her recent renovations here:

Source: @jade_compston/Instagram

She uses simple design items from Bunnings' wood department to create stylish, textured effects.

These can be used to craft a feature wall that elevates the room's look, often for an additional cost of around $100 plus a tin of paint.

Compston believed that low-cost yet impactful designs could spice up a home.

She hopes that people can transform their spaces into areas they love, highlighting the mental health benefits of a comfortable and pleasing abode.
Key Takeaways

  • Professional renovator Jade Compston advised against cheap paint brushes and rollers, as low-quality tools could lead to poor results.
  • Compston recommended reading the instructions on paint cans and tool packaging to avoid common painting mistakes and achieve a polished look.
  • Jade, known for her budget-friendly renovations, shared tips on how to use paint rollers and to choose paint colours for versatility.
  • She also suggested using affordable design features like pine panelling to create stylish, textured walls on a budget.
Are you planning to repaint or renovate your home soon? Do you have DIY home tips you would like to share with everyone? Let's talk about it in the comments section below!
 
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