FINDING YOUR TRUE COLORS
Once implemented, paint color might seem a little different than it appeared on the little sample paper in the shop. To prevent disappointment and extra work, buy only a quart of the color you would like to paint and use it on a foam board. Place the painted plank in different spots in a room to realize how natural and artificial lighting affects the color .
HOW MUCH PAINT TO BUY
We recommend one gallon for every 400 square feet. Textured, rough or unprimed surfaces may require more.
OIL AND WATER DON’T MIX
Never apply latex, water-based paint to an oil finish and also vice versa. If you are not certain which type of paint is currently on a surface, use some rubbing alcohol on some dry white cloth and rub it on the surface or wall. If the paint softens and transfers to the cloth, it is latex.
ECO-FRIENDLY PAINT
Some kinds of paint may release tiny amounts of toxic gas to the atmosphere for years after it has been applied. Pick paint with low VOC's - these are often identified with a green seal. Ask Mark Simms Painting Co, Inc. about "green painting" products for your house or company in St. Petersburg, Florida.
PROPER PREPARATION PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE
- Clean: Don't forget to wash ceilings, walls and all surfaces using a simple solution of TSP and water prior to painting. Rinse lightly and allow to dry overnight. Dust and brush baseboards, trim and crown moldings prior to taping. Sand all surfaces (especially if textured) for best results.
- Tape and Floor Protection: Overlap tape on the edges to prevent seepage and seal tightly. Drop cloths or old sheets would be best for protecting floors from paint. Vinyl sheets may get slippery and cause hazards. Instead of taping, use a fantastic quality painter's edger to save time.
- Paintbrushes:
Use nylon and synthetic brushes for latex paint. Oil-based paint performs better with natural bristles like ox hair. Clean latex paint from brushes immediately after use with water and soap. Oil based paint brushes need paint thinner. Wrap brushes in vinyl, seal with a rubber band and hang upside down to maintain shape.
- Fill: Use spackle to fill in any cracks and holes prior to painting using a broad, flat blade instrument. Sand till smooth and apply primer to every spot.
- Remove: Tape screws into the base covers when removing electrical outlet covers for a much neater job. Apply tape over the outlet switch.
- Allow Sufficient Drying Time: Wait at least 24 hours before bringing back furniture to a freshly painted area. Allow 30 days before washing.
Quick Tip: If you take a break while painting, cover rollers in plastic wrap and refrigerate so they won’t dry up.
For more tips on painting your residential or commercial property in St. Petersburg, FL call Mark Simms Painting Co, Inc. today.