One of the biggest challenges for people is bringing two different colors of paint together and creating a sharp, distinct line between the two. The following photos are from a commercial job we did recently and it is a good example of how it is done.
Continue reading “Sharp Paint Lines”
Almost all paint failure can be traced back to these 4 lapses in judgement.
Poor surface prep. Regardless of the skill and experience of the painter, inadequate prep is the number one reason paint jobs fail. Good prep work and attention to detail will almost guarantee success. Cleaning the surface to be painted whether it is indoors or out, Sanding, caulking, priming and sealing stains are all necessary steps and are the sign of a “real” skilled pro.
Working with poor/cheap equipment. The equipment you choose is critical to a successful job. Quality brushes apply paint in a uniform and professional manner. Proper paint poles provide the right height and grip to reach difficult areas. High end roller frames hold onto the roller cover and don’t fall apart under stress. A quality roller cover hold enough paint and applies it properly.
Working under poor conditions. On an exterior job; painting when it is too cold or too hot or prior to rain. Painting in direct sun on a surface that is too hot. On interior work, working in poor lighting conditions or when others are creating less then optimal work conditions for painting or staining (carpenter creating sawdust).
Using poor quality paint. Always purchase the best paint you can afford. You can have great prep work, super equipment and perfect painting conditions and end up with a disaster if you skimp or bargain shop for paint. I have always found it amazing that in the United States we gladly pay $300.00 a gallon for the paint going on our cars but consider it expensive to pay $20.00 or $30.00 a gallon for the paint going on our home. You get what you pay for.
Painting mistakes happen but if these 4 are avoided you are well on your way to a successful paint project.
The home real estate market is hot. Sellers are definitely in the drivers seat in 2016. If you happen to be considering selling your home there are areas where a little time and paint will help you get top dollar. Touchups =$.
The 2 main tapes I keep around are PG29 by Intertape and 3M’s lacquer. Through years of trial and error I have come to trust these two. I know what to expect from them and when to use each one. There are others I have on hand for various uses but the lacquer and the PG29 are my “go-to” ones.
Continue reading “Tape”When choosing a paint the smart money is on the good stuff. A very simple guideline is what it costs. I have always found it fascinating that we spend $300 a gallon for the paint used to paint our cars and $30 a gallon for the paint we use on our homes. Spend as much as you can afford on a quality product!
Continue reading “Quality Paint”I always say you should buy the best equipment/tools you can afford. They pay for themselves in the long haul. Once you have made that investment you need to maintain what you have. The paint brush is a key component to any paint contractors tool bucket. I recommend a 3″ Purdy, Wooster or Corona and the best way to keep them in top condition is to keep then clean.
Continue reading “Brush Preservation”
