FAQ
Q: Can you paint over wallpaper?
Yes, so long as the wallpaper is in good condition. However, if you have
metallic wallpaper, we suggest removing the wallpaper and not trying to paint
over it, for good results will not be achieved.
Q: To prime or not to prime?
For experienced painters, there's no question - we always prime before painting
the topcoat of your interior and exterior projects. There are many reasons to
prime, however, tops on the list is: Ensures greater adhesion of the topcoat of
paint. Greater color retention and fade protection. Prevents grease, mildew,
smoke and water stains from bleeding through to surface. Better resistance to
peeling during cleaning and scrubbing
Q: The weather is cooling, how long do I have to get my house exterior painted?
To ensure the best overall paint performance, temperatures typically need to be 50 degrees or higher when painting outside surfaces with exterior latex or acrylic paints. Some "cold weather" paints do allow application at 35 degrees.
When painting indoors, use paint marked as "Interior" or "Interior/Exterior." Exterior paint is not for indoor use. Plus it doesn't dry as quickly and has a stronger odor — an important factor inside the house.
Sheen - The term used to describe the degree of light reflection a paint has. Usually the less sheen an interior paint has, the less stain-resistant it is. Different manufacturers may have various trade names for them, but in general sheens are classified as "Gloss," "Semi-Gloss," "Satin" and "Flat."
Gloss -
is the toughest. It's also an easier surface to clean, which makes it a good
choice for areas of high traffic or constant use. Gloss is most often used on
woodwork, baseboards, and kitchen and bath walls. Gloss paint will, however,
show imperfections in the surface more than other sheens.
Semi-Gloss -
paints are also durable and easy to clean, but have less shine than gloss.
They are just as suitable for woodwork, kitchens, baths, and other high traffic
or high-humidity places.
Satin -
is the toughest. It's also an easier surface to clean, which makes it a good
choice for areas of high traffic or constant use. Gloss is most often used on
woodwork, baseboards, and kitchen and bath walls. Gloss paint will, however,
show imperfections in the surface more than other sheens.
Eggshell - is a smooth, low-sheen finish that has less sheen than satin. It is ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and dens.
Flat -
paint is considered non-reflective and a good choice for large wall and
ceiling areas. It also hides imperfections well and spatters less when applied.
The most important thing to know is the condition of the surface itself. Regardless of whether the base coat is oil or latex, you must dull glossy paint by sanding or de-glossing with a chemical de-glossing product. If you don't dull glossy paint, the second coat will streak and not stick to the base coat when drying.
When reading the paint can, you may come across one or more of these interior paint terms:
Hiding power — The ability of a paint to obscure or hide the surface to which it is applied. Hiding power is provided by the paint's pigment. Hiding power is affected by how thickly the paint tends to apply and how well brush marks flow out.
Adhesion — The ability of the paint to grip or adhere to a surface.
Spatter resistance — The tendency of paint to throw off small droplets during application, particularly by roller. Paints with good spatter resistance are easier and more pleasant to use.
Color acceptance — The development to its full intended color whether application is by spray, brush or roller.
Touchup — The capability of paint to produce the same appearance when used for touchup as when the paint was originally applied.
Stain resistance — The capability of the paint to resist retention of household dirt and stains.
Stain removability — The ease with which stains, dirt or grime can be removed from the surface.
Scrub resistance — The capability of the paint to maintain its color when subjected to repeated washing or scrubbing.
Burnish resistance — The capability of a paint to resist taking on an increase in gloss or sheen when subjected to rubbing, scrubbing or bumping an object against it.
Block resistance — The capability of a paint, when applied to two surfaces, not to stick to itself upon contact when pressure is applied. Good block resistance helps keep a door or window from sticking.
Print resistance — The ability of a paint to resist marking or taking on the imprint of an object that is placed on it, such as a shelf with books on it.
Surface preparation is critical if you want a quality paint job. The best paint money can buy won't help if the substrate is not ready to accept it.
- Remove as much furniture as possible from the room. Group the heavier items and cover them with drop cloths.
- Provide adequate lighting to allow a good view of imperfections.
- Remove switch plates and receptacle plates.
- Patch holes and cracks with premixed spackling paste. Sand patched areas when dry.