Preparing Your Surfaces For Paint 4 Perfection
Paint is an extremely versatile material that can be used to create just about any visual style. But there is a lot that goes into getting perfect paint, from prep to the actual application.
Dustin and Stephanie, sole Owners of Paint 2 Perfection, are fine finish spray technicians trained in Colorado. This power couple is able to offer the highest level of detail on every project they touch!
1. Prepare the Surface
If you want to achieve a professional-looking paint job, it’s essential to take the time and effort to properly prepare your surfaces. Skipping this step can lead to a messy, uneven coat of paint and may even require you to sand and repaint the surface.
Start by giving all your surfaces a good wash to remove any dirt, oil or grime. Once your surfaces are clean, allow them to dry thoroughly before proceeding with the next step.
You should also consider using a primer on all surfaces, especially those that will be painted with Interlux Perfection topside paint. The primer will help to cover imperfections, provide a uniform surface for the paint to adhere to and help the paint to dry evenly. If you choose to use a primer, make sure that it’s compatible with your paint and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure about which type of paint or primer to use, ask an Interlux representative for advice.
2. Prime the Surface
Priming isn’t hard, but it’s a step that’s often hurried or skipped entirely by inexperienced DIYers. Without a quality primer, paint simply won’t stick to the surface, no matter how smooth your technique or how high-quality your paint. Invest as much time in priming your surface as you do applying the actual coat of paint, and you’ll end up with an even and flawless-looking finish. A tintable primer is recommended for heavily stained surfaces.
For best results, sand patched or repaired areas after priming to eliminate any ridges caused by spackling.
3. Paint the Surface
Once you’ve sanded the surface down and prepped it for paint, choose your favorite color and a sheen that fits the purpose of each room. Sheen affects how a paint performs and how it reflects light. Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based designer Arianne Bellizaire weighs function and style when selecting a sheen for ceilings, which are often in shadow and call attention to imperfections that flat paint camouflages well. She also favors latex over oil based paint for speed and clean-up.
4. Finish the Surface
After a thorough wash of your surfaces, it’s important to let everything dry completely. Paint won’t adhere to a damp surface and moisture can damage your surfaces in the long run. Keeping tabs on the ambient humidity levels outdoors is also key.
Once your job is done, it’s a good idea to use a spotter and a strong light to check for missed spots, “holidays” or runs before the sun sets. It’s also a great way to spot blemishes that might need sanding.
The sheen of your paint affects how the surface reflects light and performs. There are many options to choose from, so it’s important to make sure you select the right one for your project. Baton Rouge-based designer Arianne Bellizaire walks us through the various choices–from flat and more forgiving to shiny and super durable–and how she balances function and style in making her selection.