Weird Places You Forgot to Paint (That Actually Matter)
June 24, 2025
Because It’s Not Just About the Walls
When you think about painting your home, it’s easy to focus only on the obvious: walls, maybe some trim, and you’re done, right?
Not quite.
There are plenty of overlooked spots that can make your finished project feel incomplete or a little off — especially when everything else looks freshly painted. If you’re aiming for that fully finished look, here are a few places you don’t want to forget:
1. Ceilings
The ceiling is often called “the fifth wall” for a reason. Dingy or patchy ceilings can dull the whole room, even if the walls look fresh. A clean, flat white ceiling makes colors pop and reflects light better — totally worth the effort.
2. Closet Interiors
You open them every day, and so will anyone touring your house if it’s on the market. Painting closet interiors makes the space feel clean, bright, and intentional. (Bonus: It gives you a chance to declutter while you're at it.)
3. Stair Risers
The vertical part of your stairs — often scuffed and dirty — is one of the first things guests notice. Fresh paint here can give your stairs a crisp, sharp look without needing a full overhaul.
4. Vents, Grilles & Radiators
Painted vents should blend in, not stand out. If they're yellowed or rusting, a quick coat of paint (in the right product) can tie everything together.
5. Outlet Covers, Switch Plates, and Thermostats
Replace old beige covers with crisp white ones (or paintable ones if needed). And yes — remove them when painting the walls. Nothing says “DIY rush job” like paint-caked switch plates.
6. Door Knobs, Hinges & Latches
Even though these aren’t typically painted, they stand out when outdated or mismatched. While you’re painting, it’s a great time to consider upgrading or cleaning up the hardware — little details = big impact.
The Bottom Line
If you're investing in professional painting (or doing it yourself), don’t stop at the walls. These “forgotten” spots are what take a project from good to Wow, this place looks amazing. Need help making sure your home looks cohesive from top to bottom? I’m just a message away.