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 Printable Version
What was previously used -- Alkyd or Latex?
(top)
You cannot put latex paint over alkyd paint (oil based); it will result in adhesion problems.
If unknown, see the
work sheet page
for instruction on determining what kind of paint is present.
What sheen do I want on my walls or what kind of finish would be best?
(top)
The following sheen varieties are available (from lowest to highest sheen):
flat, eggshell, pearl, semi-gloss, (high) gloss.
Lower sheen finishes like flat and eggshell draw less attention to surface
imperfections while higher sheens will provide more durable, harder wearing finishes.
What is the square footage of the surface area I am painting?
(top)
A basic calculation method is available on the
work sheet page
.
What brushes and roller sleeves are appropriate for the job?
(top)
Latex paints may be applied with synthetic brushes, usually made with nylon,
polyester, or blended filaments. Alkyd paints are applied with natural bristle
brushes, most commonly China (hog) bristle for typical house painting application.
Brush width is dictated by the area being applied to. Narrow trim will usually
use a 1 1/2" or smaller brush, while applying at wall edges (cutting in) may take 2", 2 1/2", or wider brushes.
Roller sleeves are chosen based on the surface. Smooth surfaces will make use
of 5-10mm depth pile, mild texture will take 15mm, and heavier textures use 20mm or deeper pile.
What are "lap marks" and how do I avoid them?
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A lap mark is created when a paint film overlaps an already dry application.
An example of this is when paint is applied at the wall edges (cutting in) and
has dried before the paint has been rolled into the edge areas at the time the
rest of the wall is coated. To avoid this, a "wet edge" must be kept. The paint
must still be wet so the coating, when overlapping, will blend into the already
applied paint, instead of drying as a second film on top of the first.
How do I clean my brushes?
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Brushes, as well as other tools, may be cleaned with soap and water with latex products.
A rinse must be done afterwards. When using alkyd paints, mineral spirits (paint thinner)
is the appropriate clean-up solvent.
Why would I want to use quality paint?
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Higher quality paint will provide better hiding properties and increased square footage due
to a higher quantity of solids in the product. Increased durability adds to the life span of
the coating. Also, quality products provide easier application.
What colors make me feel comfortable and how does colour affect the atmosphere of the room?
(top)
To create flow between rooms, a common colour may be chosen for a particular component that
runs through each room. Trim or woodwork is often coated in this way. Usually, a type of white is a good choice.
Although ceilings were often painted white in the past, colour may be safely introduced on
this surface. By adding even a small amount of colour, the ceiling may have an influence on
the room without drawing attention as white so often does (white is the first colour the human
eye registers when viewing anything.)
Colours influence the perception of the room. Many factors will cause this. Light, muted,
or cool colours tend to recede. Dark, bright, or warm colours tend to draw in.
Keep these factors in mind when making a choice, especially given that some colours
may have a mix of tendencies. (an example: dark/cool, light/warm)
In addition, other colours already present in the room (furnishings, draperies,
carpeting, etc.) will influence and be influenced by colours chosen.
Be mindful of where the surface is when choosing a colour, as that will have an
effect on how it will appear - the type of room, direction and type of light available.
Remember - the perception of a colour may change from room-to-room and surface-to-surface.
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