How paint colour matching works in store
Bring us a clean sample of the colour you want matched, even if it is a small offcut, flake, or a painted item removed from the wall. We scan or compare the sample, then tint a test pot so you can check the shade in your own light. In Gqeberha and along the coast, colour can look different in morning sun, overcast weather and indoor LED light, so a test pot is worth the time.
For the best result, give us a sample that is not faded, dirty or covered in gloss. If you are matching an older wall colour, we may ask about the paint type, room use and whether the surface was washed often. That helps us avoid a close match that behaves differently once applied.
- Bring a clean sample, at least palm size if possible
- Tell us where the paint will go, inside or outside
- Ask for a sample pot before buying full quantities
- Check the test patch in daylight and at night
How much paint you need for your room or job
Coverage depends on the surface, the paint type and how porous the wall is. A smooth, previously painted wall will use less paint than raw plaster, fibrous cement board or a repaired surface. As a quick guide, many paints cover around 8 to 12 square metres per litre per coat, but real coverage can be lower on first coats or patchy surfaces.
Measure the length and height of each wall, then subtract large windows and doors if you want a closer estimate. If you are painting a ceiling, boundary wall or shopfront, include the rough surface area and allow extra for touch-ups. If you are unsure, send us your measurements and we can help with bulk quantity planning so you do not run short halfway through the job.
- Work out the wall area in square metres
- Allow 2 coats for most colour changes
- Add extra for textured walls, repairs and waste
- Keep one small tin aside for later touch-ups
What preparation makes the biggest difference
Good preparation is usually the difference between a neat finish and repeated repainting. Start by removing dust, chalking, mould and loose paint. Fill cracks, sand rough patches and let repair areas dry properly before you apply primer or topcoat. On coastal jobs near Gqeberha, salt and moisture can sit on the surface, so washing and drying the wall fully matters more than people think.
If you are painting over smoke stains, water marks or glossy enamel, ask us for surface prep advice before you start. Some surfaces need sealer, stain blocker or a specific undercoat to stop marks bleeding through. Skipping that step often means the finish looks fine for a day or two then problems show up again.
- Wash down dusty or salty surfaces
- Scrape off loose paint and sand shiny areas
- Repair cracks before priming
- Let damp walls dry out before painting
Which product suits interior, exterior or high-wear areas
For bedrooms and lounges, most people want a low-odour interior finish that is easy to clean. Kitchens, bathrooms and passage walls often need a tougher washable coating because of steam, splashes and regular wiping. Outside walls need products that can handle sun, rain and temperature changes, while metal gates, balustrades and steelwork need the correct preparation and coating system so rust does not return quickly.
If you are not sure what to use, tell us the room or surface, the age of the building and the finish you want. A flat finish hides more imperfections, while satin or gloss gives easier cleaning and a bit more sheen. We can suggest product combinations for homes, rental units, offices, contractor jobs and retail spaces.
Can you help with repaint problems and patchy colour
Yes. Common repaint problems include flashing, roller marks, patch repairs showing through, colour mismatch between batches, and stain bleed from old water damage. The fix depends on what is causing it, not just the final colour. A wall that was painted years apart may need full recoating rather than spot patching if you want a more even result.
If you have already painted and the colour looks different in some areas, bring in a photo, the container label if you still have it, and details of how the surface was prepared. Our team can usually narrow down whether the issue is coverage, sheen, old substrate staining or application method. A quick check now can save another round of labour later.
How ordering, branches and trade support work
You can order through our Korsten base in Gqeberha, or through our branches and service areas in Walmer, Newton Park, Sandton, Randburg and Bellville. If you are managing a larger job, ask for trade order support and bulk quantity planning before delivery day. That helps with colour consistency, lead times and making sure the same tint is mixed across all containers.
For contractors and regular buyers, contractor account help can simplify repeat purchases and project planning. If you need a colour consultation, a sample pot mixed, or advice on matching from an old wall, send the details early so we can prepare properly. Our support team is available on our contact form and can help you work out the next step.
- Send room sizes, surface type and preferred finish
- Include photos if the job has existing paint problems
- Ask for sample pots before ordering large volumes
- Confirm branch collection or support area in advance
What to expect before you come in
Bring as much information as you can: wall type, old paint colour, room use, and any photos of peeling, damp or cracking. If you are matching a colour from fabric, tile, cabinetry or an old wall, keep the sample clean and dry. The more detail we have, the better the advice and the fewer trips you need to make.
We help DIY customers, property owners and professional decorators across Gqeberha, Joburg and Cape Town. Whether it is one room, a full house or a commercial repaint, our aim is to help you buy the right products first time, with less waste and fewer surprises.
