The Trouble With Touch-Up Paint

Touch-up paint sounds simple — but it can go sideways fast. Just because you’ve got the original can doesn’t mean it’ll still match. Over time, paint can shift in color due to sun exposure, age or storage conditions. What starts as a quick fix can end up looking like polka dots instead of a seamless repair.

What seems like a cheap solution can actually cheapen the look of your space.

Before you touch up, ask yourself:

• How old is the paint? If it’s more than 6 months old, you may need a fresh can — and don’t forget to mix it thoroughly.

• Where was it stored? Paint stored in a hot garage or cold basement is more likely to have shifted in tone.

• Getting new paint? Be sure to match the brand, color, sheen and grade exactly — close isn’t close enough.

• Still confident? Do a small test spot in an out-of-the-way place. Let it dry, check it in different lighting and proceed only if it blends perfectly. And if it doesn’t? Be ready to pivot and paint the whole wall. Sometimes a little extra effort is the only way to make it look right.

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