Weekend Project: Plan for the perfect paint job
May 10, 2010 12:53 PM
Proper prep can help you approach perfection.
1. Assemble the painting kit. Learn which items are must-have for your job and find out which caulk you need. Getting all the gear together will eliminate dashes to the store midproject.
2. Match brushes to paint types. Use natural-bristle brushes with oil-based paints. Natural bristles are hollow and can clump as they absorb the water in latex-based paints. Synthetic bristles also tend to provide cleaner, more even brush strokes with latex finishes. Dampen bristles before use so they load the paint or stain more evenly.
3. Choose paint wisely. A gallon of primer will average about $40, but some of the paints in our most recent tests did well without needing one. See our ratings of interior and exterior paints and stains (available to subscribers).
4. Prep properly. Learn how to prepare the surface for exterior painting. Use these cures for other pitfalls like alligatoring, cracking, and color changes. And avoid these lead-paint perils.
5. Make sure paint is consistent. Have all your paint mixed at the same time or buy it from the same batch codes. To ensure uniformity, at home mix all the gallons of paint together in a large container, then return it to the original cans.
6. Store and dispose of paint properly. Once you’re done, use these tips to extend the life of leftover paint and dispose of old paint properly.
Essential information: If you’re planning to hire a pro, find out how to get the right contractor. Discuss the best brands of paint and exchange painting tips on our paints and stains forum.
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