Painted Dots on One Wall Make a Distinctive Touch in This Young Girl’s Room
Painted Dots on One Wall Make a Distinctive Touch in This Young Girl’s Room
There comes a time in the life of a homeowner when you ask yourself one of life’s great questions: Is it time to paint? If your answer is yes, read on. You’ll learn to paint like a pro — in a snap!
We’ll assume you’ve chosen your color — a separate matter, addressed in the Design section of the Resource Guide on www.Pre-ConstructionHomes.com. Here, you’ll master which paint, brushes, and rollers to use based on the job at hand. You’ll also earn a black belt in prep work.
VALUABLE PAINTING TIP #1
Generations of homeowners have discovered a canny tactic to lure friends and family to help paint: Host a party. Provide pizza. Invite guests to write on the walls before you paint — just make sure you use materials that won’t show through the new paint. (If you use a good primer coat, as recommended below, that won’t be a problem.)
But before you recruit your crew, you have some simple choices to make, some inexpensive tools to acquire, and a bit of easy prep.
WHICH TYPE OF PAINT?
Paints come in two main types — latex (water-based) and alkyd (oil-based) — and different levels of gloss or sheen:
- Flat – a flat, even look with no gloss or shine
- Semi-gloss – a shinier look
- Glossy – the shiniest of finishes
- Egg-shell or satin finish – a balance between flat and gloss
When using latex, you can clean your brush for reuse with soap and water. When using oil-based paints, clean your brush with paint thinner (also known as mineral spirits). Latex dries more quickly between coats.
Latex is the easiest to work with and is typically used for interior and exterior wall surfaces where a smooth, even finish is desired. Oil-based paints provide a glossier finish and can be more durable. Typical uses include kitchen cabinets and interior and exterior trim. Many people prefer a high-gloss finish on trim, crown molding, chair rails, and wainscoting to contrast with flat wall paint. Oil-based paints are also used in areas with higher moisture, such as bathrooms.
Whether you choose oil or latex, there are three key P’s before you’re ready to paint: Prep, Primer, and Patience.
THE POWER OF PREP
- Buy more than enough paint. Measure the height and width of walls. Buy more than you need for color consistency and future touch-ups.
- Get the right tools. Consult your store for brushes, rollers, trays, extension handles, masking tape, and drop cloths.
- Have your store shake each can before leaving. Stir paint again at home for consistent color.
- Clean the surface and work area carefully. Remove dust and loose paint via sanding. Use masking tape and drop cloths to protect non-work areas.
DON’T SKIP THE PRIMER COAT
A first coat of primer is essential for a rich, even finish. Choose a primer compatible with your paint type, and let it dry completely before applying the next coat.
PATIENCE IS YOUR BEST TOOL
Allow time for prep and drying. A drop cloth and masking tape are your best friends to avoid messy accidents.
SUMMING UP
- Choose the right tools for the task.
- Measure the area and buy extra paint.
- Clean, prep, and sand surfaces.
- Mask/drape areas to protect from drips.
- Remove outlet covers before painting.
- Mix paint thoroughly.
- Consider painting trim first.
- Clean brushes after each use.
- Apply primer and let it dry fully.
- Apply two finish coats for lasting results.
Today’s new homes come beautifully painted by professionals. Nonetheless, you may want to update room colors as tastes change or children grow. Follow these steps for a flawless, long-lasting paint job that brings your vision to life.
