Bulk buying is a gamble, honestly. I’ve had drywall mud last forever with the rag trick, but once it dries out, there’s no saving it. Smaller tubs just waste less if you’re not moving fast. As for “contractor grade,” I’ve found store brand caulk holds up better than some of the name brands—go figure. Anyone actually seen a difference with those “premium” rollers or is that just marketing fluff?
TRIMMING DOWN EXPENSES ON PROJECT SUPPLIES
You nailed it with the mud—once it’s gone, it’s gone, no matter what tricks you try. I’ve wasted more than I’d like to admit on tubs that sat too long. As for rollers, honestly, I’ve tried the “premium” ones and didn’t notice a huge difference unless you’re doing super fine finish work. For most jobs, the mid-range ones do just fine and don’t break the bank. Store brand caulk has surprised me too... sometimes the fancy label is just that, a label.
TRIMMING DOWN EXPENSES ON PROJECT SUPPLIES
Couldn’t agree more on the rollers—unless you’re after a glass-smooth finish, the mid-range ones are fine. I’ve even used the cheap ones for primer and they did the job. Store brand caulk surprised me too, honestly. Sometimes I think we’re just paying for the packaging with those name brands. Only thing I won’t skimp on is painter’s tape... learned that lesson the hard way.
TRIMMING DOWN EXPENSES ON PROJECT SUPPLIES
I get where you’re coming from with the rollers—unless you’re doing finish work on cabinets or something, the fancy ones just aren’t worth the markup. I’ve used the bargain bin ones for ceilings and primer coats, and honestly, couldn’t tell a difference once the paint dried. Store brand caulk though... I’m a little on the fence. Had a tube split on me mid-project, but maybe that was just a dud.
Painter’s tape is non-negotiable for me too. Tried saving a few bucks once with the off-brand stuff, ended up with paint bleeding everywhere and had to redo half the trim. Never again. I’d say the same for sandpaper—cheap stuff wears out so fast you end up spending more in the long run.
I do think there’s a lot of hype around certain brands, especially with stuff like brushes or drop cloths. Half the time, you’re just paying for a name. But I guess it’s all about figuring out what you can get away with and where it’s just not worth the hassle.
TRIMMING DOWN EXPENSES ON PROJECT SUPPLIES
Yeah, I’m with you on the painter’s tape—tried to cut corners there once and paid for it big time. Funny how some things you just can’t skimp on. I’ll admit, I’ve had luck with mid-range caulk but it’s hit or miss. The cheap rollers for primer though? Total win. Sometimes it really does come down to trial and error.
