Don't paint it! common household items better left untouched

Before you reach for the paint can, consider this: some household items are simply better left unpainted. Experts warn that attempting to paint certain surfaces can lead to problems ranging from structural damage to safety hazards. Here's a breakdown of what you should avoid.

Bathtubs: a recipe for mold and failure

The allure of refreshing a dated bathtub with a fresh coat of paint is strong. However, professionals strongly advise against it. Bathtubs endure constant exposure to moisture and heat, conditions that no paint – no matter how durable – can truly withstand. Anthony Lara, president and CEO of Picazzo Painting in Miami, emphasizes the risk of mold growth. “The potential for mold growth makes this a job for a trained refinishing crew,” he states. A safer, and often more cost-effective, option is to replace the tub altogether.

Door knobs and handles: a slippery situation

Updating the look of your Home with new door knobs and handles is a relatively inexpensive DIY project. But painting them? Not recommended. Lara explains that paint doesn't adhere well to high-sheen metal, and the constant handling can compromise any paint job.