Finding things to do at home has become increasingly popular after a global pandemic has struck the world. One of the most productive and creative ways to entertain oneself is to repair and paint stuff around the house. While doing these tasks are only for the meantime, there is no harm in attempting to achieve a high-end result. Read on further for some of the most effective methods to achieve a high-quality paint job.
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Assessing the surface
Are you dealing with slippery surfaces or unfinished wood? Does it have a colour you have to paint over? The surface you wish to paint matters in getting the best results. If you are painting over unfinished wood or a slippery surface like ceramic tiles, then it is best to prime them. A primer will make sure that your paint sticks well. Any surface may be primed as preferred, but the mentioned two instances are what you have to look out for the most.
If your surface has a previous colour, say, it is dark and you want to paint it a light shade. You should consider an undercoat to achieve a better finish. An undercoat can help you reach the desired colour without the need for applying too much of the actual paint colour on the surface.
Selecting appropriate paint
Without a doubt, high-quality paint can ensure better results for your paint job. For the most part, people tend to look at the coverage as a way to know paint quality. However, it is important to note that even cheaper paints can have high coverage, and they can do this by compensating with a higher chalk content. This makes the necessary coat of paint thinner but also gives it more coverage. Although we would want high coverage, it is also good to note that good quality paint has a higher resin content. The resin makes the paint more durable so it is better to look for paint with low-chalk but high-resin content.
Aside from the contents of the paint, the base can also matter. While oil-based paints seem more durable, they usually fade or turn yellow over time. That is why it is more recommended to use water-based paint. Water-based paint dries up faster, is odourless, and does not yellow after some time.
Selecting a good brush
Firmer brushes often leave brush streaks. This is mostly the case with black bristle brushes. Using this can leave streaks and not give a smooth finish. It is best to choose synthetic brushes for your paint job.
While these may help you achieve the best results possible, there are certain techniques that professionals are especially good at that may help it stay on for the long run. In the case that a paint job may seem complex, it is a good idea to contact someone even if it is for a simple consultation.
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Pieter Boyce
Wooden Window and Door Specialist
This article was written on behalf of Fortis & Hooke by Pieter Boyce. Pieter has an intense passion for English Architectural history and has been specialising in the conservation of original wooden windows and doors for decades. His exceptional knowledge of timber windows and doors, both listed or non-listed, is attributed to his hands-on approach to learning all aspects of the complete restoration of original features as well as having personally surveyed thousands of items throughout his long tenure as a head surveyor for one of the largest window and door restoration companies in the UK. He now runs a boutique wooden window and door consultancy and fervently champions the retention of original windows and doors. To learn more of Pieter’s services, visit his website at www.boultonboyce.co.uk.