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These
helpful tips come from our exclusive
Bonded Builders Homeowners Maintenance Manual.
Professional
Painting Tips
A
fresh coat of paint is the most inexpensive way to
"refresh" a room to make it look like it's been
remodeled.
But,
as with all remodeling projects, the key to success is
preparation. With so many tools and products available
today, preparing for a painting project can be
overwhelming and confusing for any do-it-yourselfer.
To
make the project easier, professional painters recommend a
few "must-haves."
All-Purpose
Caulk
Joints
should always be reinforced to prevent cracking by using a
paintable, mildew-resistant all-purpose caulk. Water-based
sealants have the added ease of soap-and-water cleanup.
Patching
Products
To
repair nail holes and chipped paint before painting, use a
paintable, fast-drying, shrink-free patching compound. For
holes in woodwork, be sure to use an epoxy with a soft
texture, since a course texture will create a noticeable
variation in the wood.
Sandpaper
or Sanding Blocks
Sanding
is necessary to create a smooth surface for the paint to
adhere. A durable aluminum oxide, A-weight paper with 100-
to 150-grit is suitable for most general-purpose sanding
applications.
Masking
Tape
To
keep paint only on the desired surfaces, use masking tape
to cover woodwork or hardware. Some brands are designed
for delicate surfaces such as wallpaper and drywall. They
feature a low-tack adhesive to allow easy removal without
damaging the surface.
Drop
Cloths
Protecting
floors from grit, sawdust, caulk and paint spills is
necessary on any job. Cloth drops are more expensive, but
they work best, especially over carpets. There are also
statically treated, pre-taped drop cloths that feature a
pre-taped edge of professional-grade masking tape.
Once
the walls are ready and flooring is covered, you can
gather paint supplies.
Paint
Brushes and Rollers
A
quality brush makes it easier to apply paint evenly and
accurately. Use a one- to two-inch, high-quality,
nylon/polyester, angled brush because it can be used with
all coatings, holds paint well and provides better brush
control where detail is necessary.
Rollers
should be selected based on the type of paint being
applied. For a semigloss or gloss paint or for washable
enamel, use a 3/8-inch nap, shed-resistant roller cover.
For flat paints, choose a roller with a 1/2-inch-nap
that's labeled "For Flat Paints."
Interior
Latex Paint
For
most indoor applications, a latex interior paint is the
key since it is formulated to be washable, stain-and
splatter-resistant and is easy to touch up. Latex paints
are easy to work with, dry quickly and are extremely
durable.
When
it comes to home improvement projects, preparation is the
key. By using the appropriate tool and products,
homeowners can achieve a great-looking paint job in
minimal time that gives them the satisfaction and pride of
a job well done, without professional costs.
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