South African Homeowner Seeks Advice on Mixing Grey Paint, Mzansi Shares Helpful Tips
- A Limpopo homeowner reached out on Facebook for advice on mixing grey paint, sparking warm and helpful responses
- The post received hundreds of comments, with South Africans sharing photos, product tips, and mixing suggestions
- Many praised grey paint for its modern look, while others warned about lighting and undertones when creating the perfect shade
- Briefly News spoke to Donaven Naicker, owner of Oluzayo Projects; Manikasiri Enterprise Dulux, a company that specialises in house painting; and Elchristar Projects, a construction and painting company that also specialises in ceilings
South Africans came together to offer advice after a Limpopo homeowner asked for help choosing the right grey paint for her house.
Source: Facebook
A Limpopo homeowner warmed hearts across Mzansi after turning to social media for advice on mixing the perfect grey paint for her home. Posted on Facebook by Eunice Nwa-Ngobeni Rapulana, she asked her question in the popular Limpopo Houses Facebook group, hoping others would offer guidance, and they certainly delivered. She wrote in her humble post:
“Morning family, I like a grey paint for my house. Can I please see those who used grey… how can I mix, please?”
Her post resonated with many South Africans who know how tricky it can be to choose the right shade, especially when it comes to a neutral like grey. In just four days, Eunice’s post had gathered over 500 likes and more than 370 comments, with users sharing photos of their homes, favourite paint brands, and helpful DIY tips.
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Some encouraged her to consider undertones before mixing, warning that grey can sometimes look blue or brown depending on the lighting. Others suggested starting with a basic light grey and slowly adjusting it by adding small amounts of white or black to reach the desired tone.
Mzansi united over home inspiration
The post sparked conversations around the popularity of grey paint in South African homes. Many users praised it for its modern, clean appearance and its ability to blend well with different styles of décor, from minimalist spaces to warm, cosy rooms.
Mzansi also showed how valuable community groups can be for homeowners. Platforms like Facebook have become go-to spaces for advice, inspiration, and support, whether someone is mixing paint, renovating a kitchen, or simply looking for recommendations.
Eunice’s polite and genuine approach inspired many to get involved and offer their insight. For her and countless others, it’s clear that creating a beautiful home doesn’t have to be a solo mission, especially when fellow South Africans are always ready to help.
The two companies shared expert advice on avoiding common pitfalls when mixing and applying grey paint at home. From tackling hidden undertones to ensuring proper mixing techniques, both experts emphasised that preparation and testing are key to achieving the perfect finish without wasting paint.
Donaven Naicker told Briefly News:
“One of the most common challenges when mixing grey paint is dealing with undertones. Grey often has hidden warm (brown/taupe) or cool (blue/green) undertones that only show up after drying or in different lighting. Inconsistent mixing can also be a problem; without accurate measurements, shades can differ between batches, leading to mismatched areas. Another issue is over-tinting, where adding too much tint too soon can overshoot the intended shade and waste paint.”
“To get the exact shade without wasting paint, start small by mixing a test batch before committing to a full tin. Record your formula so you can replicate the shade exactly, and always test before committing, paint a 30 × 30 cm swatch on the wall, let it dry fully, and check it in different light.”
“Professionally, I recommend using the right base; a neutral base like pure white or mid-grey gives better control over undertones. Mix thoroughly using a drill-mounted mixing paddle for even colour distribution. Work in natural light to see the true shade, apply at least two coats to deepen the colour and improve durability, and in high-traffic or humid areas, protect the finish with a clear coat.”
Elchristar Projects also spoke to Briefly News and said:
“If you don’t stir paint before using it, several issues will occur, resulting in a bad paint application. The colour may appear different from what you expect, as the pigments may not be evenly distributed. Some water-based paints experience these issues more than others. To ensure the best results, always stir paint thoroughly before using it.”
Manikasiri Enterprise weighed in on the viral discussion about mixing grey paint. The brand highlighted the importance of choosing reputable suppliers when mixing paint to ensure the right quality and colour outcome. They explained:
“Please note it’s advisable and important that people mix their grey paints from reputable brands or suppliers to get great value for money and perfect results. Many people don’t understand that paint is tinted using different bases and colourants that make up the colour schemes.”
Source: Facebook
Netizens shared their suggestions and tips
Andy said:
“Do not use grey as the main colour; your house will be dark and won’t look nice. Rather use it as a lining (on top), then a bright colour as the main.”
Matome Motsoko Motjopi WaPhokanoka wrote:
“Ash grey, trimmed with granite grey.”
Omen WaDeejayll commented:
“We manufacture and apply gamazine paint at a reasonable price; R250 per bucket, R150 labour per bucket. Inbox for a free quote.”
Naledi Tolokazi Gujulwa Msomi said:
“It depends on what colour you mix it with. Grey is okay, it can be the main.”
Makoena Malebana wrote:
“Depends which grey, sweetie. Find a professional painter; you will definitely love it. My sister’s house looks radiant, ravishing, magnificent.”
Thitakuwi Munyai said:
“Mix light grey and black. It will give you dark grey. I did that at my house.”
Phindulo Magadani wrote:
“That colour combo is fire!”
Trycosa Hunadi Kekana commented:
“Champagne grey and dark grey are a nice combination.”
Check out the Facebook post below:
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Source: Briefly News
