Monday May 11 2020 - Friday May 15, 2020
Decorative Painting
KNOX COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
CAP GENERAL CONSTRUCTION
RESOURCE MATERIAL
Please read through the hand out below and provide a brief summary on the following
- The basic function of paints
- The types of painting methods
- The basic painting tools and equipment
- the various types of paints
- The selection criteria for internal and external paints
Paints in general provide several key function on any building surface to include metal wood concrete and even plastics. These main functions can be categorized using the following headings.
- Decorative functions
- Sealing the surface and priming
- Antifungals treatment
- lightning effects
- hygienic
- weather resistant functions purposes
There are many ways to achieve an elegant look by using painting. Having a freshly painted room in your home can make all of the difference, and that is for sure. Whether you use faux painting techniques or just use a great color to really bring out a wall, fresh paint can make such a difference in your home. It can make it feel more relaxed, more inviting, and more like your space instead of just a house that you live in.
For those out there who want to explore decorative painting techniques, there is one out there for just about every taste. Faux painting techniques are becoming increasingly more popular every day as people are beginning to learn more and more about them, and the best thing is that they are not designed to be perfect.
These techniques can make your home truly stand out amongst the rest in your neighborhood, and can give you an outlet for expressing your personal style. Here are a few decorative painting techniques that you can explore for your home once you have finally decided to take the plunge.
Painted Effects
Painting Stripes
Painting stripes is one of the scariest faux painting techniques of them all. If you are allergic to painter's tape, stay as far away from this technique. It requires almost as much time taping as it does painting if not more, so if you are short on patience you may want to consider sponge painting.
When painting stripes, decide how wide you want the stripes to be and set the tape that far apart. Before you actually do the painting you will probably be sick of the job, but the effects once the job has been completed will be well worth the effort.
Sponge Painting
Most people have done sponge painting before, or at least heard of it. This faux painting effect has to do with applying one solid color to the wall and then sponging another color over it.
Depending on how wet you get the sponge with paint, what types of sponges you use, and how well your paint blends together your sponge painting effect may come out just like you envisioned it or the exact opposite. Either way, sponge painting is one of those effects that you can't really go wrong with no matter how hard you may try.
Color Washing
Color washing is another popular decorative painting technique, and it is one of the easiest to accomplish on your own. You can do this to bring a bit of drama and color into a room plus be able to count on the fact that it will not be too overpowering or dramatic for your taste. You can use a brush, a sponge, or a rag or cloth to color wash, and the effects will be different with each one. Try them all out at first and see what effect you like the most and take it from there.
Ragging and Rag Rolling
Ragging and rag rolling are two other decorative painting techniques that you may be able to use in your home, especially if you are not one for tedious things like stripe painting. If you have walls that have minor imperfections in their color or texture that just drive you nuts, this technique is a great idea for you. It is easy to accomplish and provides almost instantly beautiful results.
Faux Leather
So you want the faux leather look? This is great for home theaters, bachelor pads, basements, and even stylish living rooms. While the technique is not nearly as hard as it looks, it is not for everyone. Be sure that you have the furnishings to go with this décor and the time to get the look down to the way that you want it. Be warned; this one can be tricky.
Stippling and Marbling
If none of the above decorative paint techniques interests you, perhaps marbling or stippling are more suitable to your style. You may want to get a friend to help you with this one, as the initial glaze and stippling effect should be applied one after the other. This is a great way to call in that favor you have been meaning to call in for some time.
Types of Decorative Paint to Try
There are so many different types of paint to try out if you want to have a specialized effect in your home. Metallic paint, suede paint, and stone paint are some of the most popular types of faux paints out there. They create the effects of metal, suede, and stone just as their name implies. These are normally pretty pricey paint types when you compare it with others, but it can decrease the need for too much fuss when it comes to decorative painting and add an effect that you wouldn't believe until you saw the finished product in your home.
When you want to add some style and class to your home and are sick and tired of the same old tired paint colors, faux painting techniques are the way to go. Faux painting can add that missing something to an otherwise dreary room. Plus, all of these decorative painting techniques can be painted over to give you a fresh canvas, just in case you don't like the look.
What are you waiting for? Your home needs a face lift, and you have the power to provide it with any of the above mentioned decorative painting techniques.
Don’t be afraid to try something new or bold.
The key to success with any faux painting is knowledge and experience. To that end I have found a great site that has additional information on many faux finishing techniques and the steps needed to achieve them.
Another site that can inspire and give you more ideas for your walls is Your Step By Step Wall Décor Guide. This resource is packed with ideas and tips for all your wall décor projects.
Have a favorite paint color?
The basic principles of color are hue, value, intensity and temperature. By combining these four ideas all potential combinations are possible.
The Basic Terms of Color
• Hue – Hue is another word for color. All colors you see and can imagine are hues. Typically the term applies to combinations of primary colors with different values and intensities. Hue is a favorite term of decorators.
• Value – This term refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. Value is determined by the amount of white, gray or black that is added to a pure color. Think of this as "light", "medium" or "dark". Other related terms are tint, shade and tone.
• Intensity – Intensity is the measurement of the brightness of a color. If a color strikes you as light, medium or dark you are judging the value. While intensity is bright or dull. Low intensity hues are commonly used as main colors while higher intensity hues are used for accents.
• Temperature – Colors are often referred as warm or cool. Red, orange and yellow seem warm, like fire. While blue and green are cool. Neutral refers to a combination of warm and cool, example is beige. The temperature of a color helps set the mood and can affect your perceptions of a room or space.
A hue can be combined with another then lightened or darkened in an infinite number of ways. The goal is finding balance between these four ideas and achieving a look you can live with.
The best place to start is with yourself and the colors you like. Determining which paint colors you like or should avoid is your biggest challenge. An understanding of color and its effect on your mood will help you make choices. Developing your own paint color scheme and sense of style is a large part of this process.
A great way to begin is to see different combinations of paint colors used by others.
Due to limitations of the printing process and the use of graphics software the colors in books and magazines may not be an exact representation of any paint colors.
Books and magazines are a perfect place to start. As you probably found out, the amount of inspirational resources is astounding.
Many of my customers start with magazines, such as Better Homes and Gardens. These magazines are inexpensive and full of pictures. You will find a lot of variety concerning interior decorating and home improvement. Use magazines for inspiration only. Applying the exact colors seen in a magazine will almost never produce the same pleasing results.
Books are your next source; seek out books on specific topics concerning your needs. The advantage, more detailed information will be provided and with pictures. An example of a topic is choosing exterior paint colors. A book with specific information on a specific topic is better than several with general information, no need to purchase 3 books when one will do.
Another resource is a manufactures paint color fan deck. These can help you choose the best combinations of house painting colors for your interior or exterior project. Every color fan deck is arraigned to provide the maximum amount of possible color schemes.
Unfortunately the volume of paint colors often adds to the confusion. A paint manufactures fan deck is basically a color wheel taken to the extreme.
You don’t need a full understanding of color theory or years of professional experience, but comprehending the effects of color on a space will be very useful.
Once the colors have been chosen you need to apply paint samples and check the real look of the paint. All colors will be affected by the surrounding environment and almost never look exactly as you think.
Double checking the paint colors will save you time, effort and money. This applies to both interior and exterior house painting.
Exterior House Painting Colors
A sense of style when choosing exterior paint colors is as important as the landscaping, and let’s not forget the visitor and neighbors. Your home is visible to the entire world and the right choice of paint colors for the main body, trim, and other ascents can increase the sense of pride and the homes value.
Paint does more than make the exterior look good.
Choosing the best colors for your location can add years to the paint job. Not all colors retain their original look when exposed to sunlight and harsh weather. Plus some colors can take many coats, 4-6, before the desired look is achieved.
The best exterior colors are neutral toned with a medium value. All light to medium browns and beige colors cover well and have a better than average resistance to UV light. The worst colors to work with are pure colors, reds and yellows. These colors will require mutable coats plus will oxidize faster, especially reds.
Other considerations are covenants or restrictions that will dictate the range of color combinations that can be used on the exterior of your home.
This can involve newer subdivisions as well as older homes with historic value. Confirm with your homeowners association which types of color combinations they desire and the approval time it takes for your colors.
If you are currently involved with restoring an older home check with you’re local housing authorities on the use of historic colors and color schemes appropriate to your houses architecture. You could even receive tax credits and other incentives to restore your home to its original beauty. Past customers have received as much as 50% of the contract price for an exterior paint job. Well worth a few phone calls.
Interior House Painting Colors
Choosing an interior paint color is one of the most difficult parts of any house painting project and should be done before any paint is purchased or applied. When choosing interior color schemes you will need to take into account all aspects of your current and future decorating styles.
From the flooring materials to your furnishings all colors and textures will affect the possible choices and the final outcome of your interior design. All surfaces will change the appearance of any paint color.
Unless new carpet is in the immediate future the floor surface will influence the final appearance of your chosen color. Furnishings, window treatments, art, and all accessories also have an effect on the outcome of any room’s style.
Another aspect of color is its ability to change the perceived proportions of a room. A room can appear larger, smaller or taller; an example is a lighter ceiling will make the walls appear taller.
The choice of paint sheen also affects the final look and overall feel of every room. From cozy to formal, with the right choices a distinct mood can be created using paint colors and your existing furnishings.
There are many decorative painting ideas and possibilities available to you. Some can be dramatic, such as accent colors, and others hardly noticeable. With the needed hours (or days) spent choosing and applying samples, the best color can be chosen.
Exterior House Painting Colors
A sense of style when choosing exterior paint colors is as important as the landscaping, and let’s not forget the visitor and neighbors. Your home is visible to the entire world and the right choice of paint colors for the main body, trim, and other ascents can increase the sense of pride and the homes value.
Paint does more than make the exterior look good.
Choosing the best colors for your location can add years to the paint job. Not all colors retain their original look when exposed to sunlight and harsh weather. Plus some colors can take many coats, 4-6, before the desired look is achieved.
The best exterior colors are neutral toned with a medium value. All light to medium browns and beige colors cover well and have a better than average resistance to UV light. The worst colors to work with are pure colors, reds and yellows. These colors will require mutable coats plus will oxidize faster, especially reds.
Other considerations are covenants or restrictions that will dictate the range of color combinations that can be used on the exterior of your home.
This can involve newer subdivisions as well as older homes with historic value. Confirm with your homeowners association which types of color combinations they desire and the approval time it takes for your colors.
If you are currently involved with restoring an older home check with you’re local housing authorities on the use of historic colors and color schemes appropriate to your houses architecture. You could even receive tax credits and other incentives to restore your home to its original beauty. Past customers have received as much as 50% of the contract price for an exterior paint job. Well worth a few phone calls.
Interior House Painting Colors
Choosing an interior paint color is one of the most difficult parts of any house painting project and should be done before any paint is purchased or applied. When choosing interior color schemes you will need to take into account all aspects of your current and future decorating styles.
From the flooring materials to your furnishings all colors and textures will affect the possible choices and the final outcome of your interior design. All surfaces will change the appearance of any paint color.
Unless new carpet is in the immediate future the floor surface will influence the final appearance of your chosen color. Furnishings, window treatments, art, and all accessories also have an effect on the outcome of any room’s style.
Another aspect of color is its ability to change the perceived proportions of a room. A room can appear larger, smaller or taller; an example is a lighter ceiling will make the walls appear taller.
The choice of paint sheen also affects the final look and overall feel of every room. From cozy to formal, with the right choices a distinct mood can be created using paint colors and your existing furnishings.
There are many decorative painting ideas and possibilities available to you. Some can be dramatic, such as accent colors, and others hardly noticeable. With the needed hours (or days) spent choosing and applying samples, the best color can be chosen.
Professional Help with Choosing House Paint Colors
Now that you have read about some of the challenges ahead or most likely experienced them for yourself, you might be considering professional help.
With the internet other cheaper options are available. In the past I have purchased computer programs designed to use a photo of a room or exterior and show what it will look like with different paint colors. These work pretty well and some have the ability to show multiple colors on different surfaces, including ceiling, walls and trim each with a different color.
An alternative to purchasing a computer program yourself is using on-line services. This type of service offers the same ability to upload a picture and choose paint colors but some services offer the help of a real live color consultant. This is a great way to see the general affects before buying any paint.
Another Choice Is To Use A Interior Decorator
This option can remove a great weight off your shoulders. Hiring a professional decorator can be a great investment, possibly saving thousands from bad decisions and questionable choices. Unfortunately this service can be expensive depending on the extent of your project.
An alternative is a home analysis. This concept is a consultation that can point you into new directions. Typically, this option is cheaper than hiring a decorator for the entire duration of your project. In this case the decorator helps you with the general ideas, leaving the details up to you.
Crowder Painting has always spent a great amount of time helping each customer find that special paint color. This process will take time and cause some stress. So relax and take a deep breath. It doesn’t have to be a difficult and mind boggling experience. Choosing the paint colors is just the start of a painting project.
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Many people, my customers included, don't put a lot of thought in the type of house paint they need in order to have lasting performance. Most people think of paint as a decorative element that provides protection to a surface.
The reality is opposite. Paint is a protective film that has decorative capabilities.
Paint manufactures are constantly trying to improve their products for the best performance, but they also know that no one will purchase these products if they don’t offer a decorative appeal.
This explains the confusing volume of products on the shelves.
Choosing the best and most proper house paint to use is as important as the surface preparation and the application techniques used. An understanding of the different kinds will allow you the best opportunity at choosing house paint for maximum performance and decorative appeal.
What is House Paint?
Paint is a liquid that dries to form a protective film on the surface. Paint mainly consists of pigments, binders, additives and solvents. Each type of finish will have its own special blend of ingredients that enhance its performance for a given surface.
The pigments are fine particles that provide the color. The binder holds the pigments together and glues them to the surface being painted. Various additives can be included that enhance different properties of the house paint. These include splatter resistance, easier brushing, mildew resistance, hardness of the paint film and UV resistance.
The most common binders are latex, vinyl, acrylic and alkyd. Latex, vinyl and acrylic are formulated with water as the main ingredient. As a result these types of paints are known as "water base". Alkyd uses mineral spirits, aka paint thinner, as a solvent. Since earlier paints used natural plant oils, such as Linn Seed and Tung oil, as a binder instead of alkyd resins this type of paint became known as "oil base".
After the solvent evaporates the pigments, binders and additives are left on the surface, this is the paint film. Paints that contain more of these ingredients will form a thicker film, providing better coverage and more protection. The quality of the ingredients also has a great affect on how the paint works when applied and how long it will last. Gallon for gallon a cheap paint will have less binders and of a lower quality than a more expensive paint.
Of course the chemistry of house paint in much more complex than this explanation. This gives you a little knowledge of the two main types of paints, oil base and water base.
Varieties of House Paint
You have two types of paint to be concerned with latex paint and alkyd paint. Both types have excellent qualities but are incompatible with each other. A rule to follow is "oil over water - never water over oil". This means an oil base paint, alkyd house paint, can be applied over water base paint, latex or acrylic house paint, but never the other way around. A primer must be used before applying latex over oil base paint.
Both latex and alkyd paints have both good and bad attributes. They are both equally suited for most surfaces. No wonder it is difficult to decide which to use.
Latex Paint
Latex paints are the most common and popular types of paints on the market. Because its primary liquid is water, latex dries quickly, is almost odorless (at least to my nose), clean up is with water and is environmentally friendly.
Most water based paints contain a small amount of volatile solvents also called Volatile Organic Compounds, VOC's. These compounds can be a problem with some people. No VOC paints are now on the market that can be used in these situations.
The main limitations are sensitivity to the cold, should be applied above 50 degrees F., and has a tendency to show brush marks when compared to alkyd finishes. Lower temperature versions can be applied at 35 degrees. Keep in mind, this paint cannot be allowed to freeze both during and for a few hours after application. The paint film will be severely damaged if allowed to freeze before it’s fully cured.
The quality of latex paint is affected by the type of binder used. The best water based paints use 100% acrylic resins. Some manufactures use the term acrylic latex paint.
100% Acrylic House Paint has all the best qualities and will outperform cheaper latex house paints. This type offers splatter resistance, easy to apply, can be scrubbed, high chip resistance plus great color and sheen retention.
Alkyd Paint
Many professional painters prefer to use alkyd house paint, especially on interior trim. It is durable, stain resistant and dries with less brush marks. Plus, it is a dream to spray with a HVLP paint sprayer, providing a factory like finish.
Unfortunately it has some major drawbacks; alkyd paint has a strong solvent smell and dries slowly.
• The smell comes from the very high amounts of VOCs contained within the paint. Must be applied with adequate ventilation, plus the smell will stick around for a while.
• Slow drying has its advantages; the paint flows on the surface producing a smoother appearance. Unfortunately it will have a tendency to sag if applied to thick. This means more coats will be needed and the project will take more time.
Even with these drawbacks this type of finish can produce superior results in some situations. This is an excellent paint for interior wood trim, doors and cabinets. Choose high quality alkyd house paint for the best results.
Specialty House Paint
Although latex and alkyd house paints represent the most common types you are likely to encounter, there are other types you need to know about. Each offers some unique capabilities.
• Elastomeric is a truly unique exterior paint with rubber like qualities. Elastomeric paint was developed for cracked masonry, such as stucco. This is a very thick paint that can bridge over small cracks and stretch with the surface. A good choice for some wood surfaces.
• Direct to Metal paints, DTM is primarily an industrial finish, but I have seen some versions available to the general public. I have used this type of paint on steel siding with incredible results. If you have some metal that needs to be painted, give DTM a try. Primarily an exterior product.
• Epoxy paint, a two-component paint that is very tough and chemical resistant. Although interior only, this stuff is as tough as it gets. Most homeowners will use it on their garage floors, but epoxy can be used anywhere a super tough finish is needed.
• Urethane floor enamels are the perfect choice for painting a wood floor. Typically a very shiny paint with all the positive attributes of oil base enamel. Very hard and scratch resistant. I use urethane paint on painted porch floors with great results.
Choosing Exterior House Paint
Every house will need painting some day and someone will have to choose what type of paint to use. There isn’t a simple answer, "use this brand and it will last forever". The type of finish you choose depends on many factors.
• Type of surface affects the type of paint to use. Example, wood trim and siding expand and contract with the seasons plus can split over time. The paint needs to expand and contract with the wood with out cracking. A good elastic paint is 100% Acrylic with a satin sheen.
• The environment also affects the paint and the surface it’s applied to. Regional weather extremes need to be taken into account. Every region has specific needs as to the best possible house paint to use.
• UV exposure is another factor that affects the finish paint. Most alkyd finishes degrade faster when exposed to UV light.
Where you purchase your paint also affects the choices you make. It is my belief that paint should be purchased from a paint store not from a home improvement center. A paint store offers regional specific knowledge and products that are best suited for your particular needs.
Choosing exterior paint involves a lot of knowledge about regional weather and products best suited for a given surface. This knowledge comes from years of experience using different products.
Choosing Interior House Paint
Choosing interior paint is much easier than choosing exterior paint. Your needs and the environment are much easier to define and they remains fairly constant over time. The number of available products is lower.
Factors to Consider
• Abrasion Resistance – Some areas of your home receive more ware and tare than others. These areas could be hallways, doors and trim or a child’s room. Alkyd paints can offer excellent resistance to scuffing and is a good choice for doors, trim and floors. The acrylic paints offer lower odor, ease of application and excellent flexibility.
• Humidity – Exposure to water will have a huge effect on the life of the finish. In areas such as bathrooms, saunas, and pools this is especially true. Both top quality oil base and acrylic finishes are resistant to moisture. The acrylic paints are better in most situations. Higher sheens should be used in areas that receive more humidity.
• Sheen – The sheen of the paint affects how strong and flexible the paint film is and the abrasion resistance. The more sheen the more resistance to washing and the affects of abrasion. Choose a paint sheen that matches the conditions of the surface and your decorative needs.
• Color – Intensity of color and the need for multiple coats affects your choices as well. Water base paints dry faster allowing you to apply another coat sooner plus quality acrylics are thicker and offer better coverage.
Top quality interior acrylic house paint is the best choice for ceilings and walls plus most surfaces. The alkyd finishes offer a harder film that can take more of a beating. Hence the preference most pros have for using oil base finishes on trim and doors.
Choosing interior house paint comes down to the amount of time you have to accomplish your project and the desired decorative appeal. If you need a super smooth paint finish, choose an oil base but if this project has to be finish ASAP choose the fast drying acrylics.
Why Use Quality Paint
House paint does much more than add color. Your homes ability to resist the forces of nature depends on the best quality paint used. Of course it’s not just using high quality house paint. Proper surface preparation, primer and caulking all add to the final outcome.
Quality materials, professional painting tools and craftsmanship add up to a paint job that can last for years. Cheaper materials will last a shorter amount of time causing the need to repaint much sooner, plus the need for possible repairs.
This is especially true for exterior painting. Using $15 per gallon paint can mean repainting in 4 years and $25 per gallon paint could last for 10 years. Cheaper materials will force you to repaint your home much earlier as compared to using a top quality finish. What would you rather do, paint your home or something else?
Another consideration is the labor involved to prepare a home for painting and then apply the finish. The cost of labor, yours or a painting contractor, must be accounted for and will increase on a yearly basis with increases in the cost of living. Your labor also has value. Think of what it costs you in lost time from your job or missed recreational opportunities.
Example of Exterior Painting Cost
Let’s assume the cost of painting a small exterior with $15 per gallon paint is $250 for materials and $1500 for labor, this equals $1750. Now also assume the paint job last for 4 years. In 8 years, with no increase in material or labor cost, the paint job cost $3500.
Using a better paint can double the time before repainting needs to be done, lets assume 8 years for arguments sake. The cost of materials goes up a little, it’s now $350 but the cost of labor remains the same. This paint job now costs $1850.
The difference between these two examples is $1650 for an 8 year period. The better paint saves a considerable amount of money over time when compared to the cheaper paint. Of course this is a dramatic example. The labor costs can increase with the better paint job, especially if more intense exterior paint preparation is used.
This translates to a higher cost per year for the cheaper house paint and higher maintenance cost for you. The savings will be higher if a painting contractor is hired. Spending the money now for quality materials and craftsmanship will save you money in the future.
Use the Right Paint Primer or Sealer
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Using the correct paint primer or sealer will help guarantee that your paint will grip the surface, increasing the overall quality and durability of your paint job. Far too often I see the results of pinching pennies and not using a good primer. Your exterior house paint can last 10 years or longer by using the correct type. By not using it on raw unpainted areas you are assured of early failure of the paint film, resulting in peeling.
A properly sealed surface is just as important for interior painting. Porous surfaces, such as raw drywall or plaster, and sealing water stains are just a couple of examples.
Paint primers exist in many forms and serve a variety of functions. Their uses around your home are limited only by the surfaces that you want to paint.
There are 3 Basic Types of Paint Primers to Choose From
There are other types of primers on the market, specialty primers. These types are designed for a single purpose and often a single type of surface. This short list represents the most general types and is the ones most often used.
• Alkyd - Oil Base
• Acrylic - Latex
• Tinted Shellac
Each type has its own set of uses. This depends on the surface condition and environment. Another consideration is the type of material that will be painted and whether you need an exterior or interior primer.
A good definition of paint primer is that it forms the foundation of the entire paint job.
• By having the ability to adhere to the intended substrate.
• Produce a uniform surface.
• Seal pours, allowing an even sheen and appearance of the finish coat.
• Enhance the hiding ability of the finish coat. Especially important with dark or vibrant colors. With these "designer colors" a tinted primer is necessary to achieve their true beauty.
• Neutralizes a substrates PH, as with unpainted plaster, drywall and masonry. These surfaces can have a PH of 12 or more. A high PH can adversely affect the adhesion and longevity of many types of house paints.
For lasting results, proper interior and exterior surface preparation combined with the right sealer will build an effective barrier against stains and moister plus promote full adhesion of the house paint.
With all that a quality primer can do, it is easy to understand the importance of choosing the right product for your painting needs.
Painting Tools
Good Tools Make a Big Difference
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Purchasing professional quality painting tools is one of the most important investments you will make as you participate in more painting projects. Professional quality tools will save time and considerable effort when compared to cheaper alternatives.
With the right set of tools it is possible to reduce the amount of time and effort it takes to finish your house painting project. Good tools help guarantee great results. Using inferior and cheap painting tools will provide endless hours of frustration. Plus, they will need replacing soon after they are used. If cared for properly, quality tools will last a lifetime.
Tools needed for house painting can be separated into a couple of categories; (1) preparation and (2) application. You may already have some of the painting tools needed and some will need to be purchased.
A basic painters tool kit consist of hand tools, screw drivers and pliers, a 5-way or 11-in-1 multipurpose tool, putty knifes, both stiff and flexible, a couple of spackle knifes, drop cloths, brushes and a roller set-up. The amount of tools you need depends on your project. The more the better, I’m a big fan of tools. It’s better to work smarter than work harder.
Painting Tools Used for Surface Preparation
Most often preparing a surface for priming and painting is more work than the painting itself. Sometimes it can be 75% of the work. Having access to a variety of tools will speed up the process and produce a better paint job. Plus you won’t have to work as hard.
Pressure Washer
Pressure washer, a very useful painting tool to own or rent. Often used for washing the dust and spider webs off a house prior to the preparation and finish painting. Can also remove some loose and peeling paint, lessening the need for scraping and sanding. A great piece of equipment for preparing a wood deck.
Check out these pages for instructions on using a pressure washer, Pressure Washing a Homes Exterior and Deck Power Washing.
Paint Scraper
Choosing a good paint scraping tool will easily pay for itself. A paint scraping blade needs to perform many tasks quickly and comfortably. Removing loose paint, as well as other old materials, is a basic painting task. Plus scraping paint is an important first step in the preparation process.
Power Sanders
After scraping off loose paint the use of power sanders is highly recommended. Often sanding previously painted surfaces can identify and remove additional loose and peeling paint. Plus the finished look will be much better when compared to scraping alone. Power sanders can be used on new and old wood surfaces as well as sanding stained wood decks prior to refinishing.
Dropcloths
Drop cloths, there will be messes, cover your floors properly. This item is often overlooked by homeowners and professional painters. Old sheets and light weight plastic won’t work. Good drop cloths will easily pay for themselves by protecting expensive floors and contributing to a safer working environment.
Masking Machine
Masking machines are not necessary but these relatively inexpensive painting tools will save lots of time getting things properly covered and ready to apply the finish. Much more convenient than using newspaper plus masking paper won’t fall apart when wet with paint or primer. Also available is specialized plastic films of various lengths. Although optional, it’s still a must have tool.
Check out Masking Techniques for more information on the use of a masking machine.
Caulking Gun
Caulking gun, the best is a professional drip-less model. This is a very inexpensive painting tool but an important one. After using a cheap caulking gun for a full day you will appreciate the comfort and convenience that a few more dollars will buy.
Extension and Step Ladders
Ladders are absolutely necessary. It seems imposable to accomplish anything without one. Ladders are inherently dangerous, choosing a heavy duty model will provide better stability and more safety.
Another way to improve safety is with ladder levelers and stabilizers. These optional ladder accessories will add to the overall cost of a ladder but will drastically improve the stability and usability of extension ladders. Whether your needs are 2 feet or 20 feet choose the right ladder for your needs.
Painting Tools Used for Paint Application
The application of a protective coating is what most people think of when painting. This can be accomplished through the use of hand tools, like a brush, or by using a mechanical device, like a paint sprayer or powder roller. Which type of method you choose depends on the type of finish being applied, the desired results, the type of surface and your budget.
Manual Painting Tools
Paint Brushes
Brushes are the most basic of all painting tools. You will want at least 3 different sizes and possibly 2 different styles. Quality varies and there are many different manufactures. Cheap painting tools won’t last the job; good brushes will perform for a very long time and be comfortable to use.
Paint Roller Covers
A better way to paint large areas is with a paint roller. One primary part of this system is the roller cover. Cheep covers are difficult to use and usually not worth considering. Quality roller covers will easily last beyond a single use and spread more paint faster with the least amount of effort. Choose the correct size, type and pile thickness for the most pleasing results.
Paint Roller Frames
The roller frame is another part of a paint roller system. This item is available in different sizes, ranging from 3 inches to 16 inches. A professional roller frame will save you many hours of hard work and produce better results.
Roller Poles
The final piece of a paint rolling system is a roller pole. A good roller pole is positive locking and comfortable to use. Much better than using a threaded broom stick. Many styles are available in different lengths; definitely buy the best you can afford.
Professional Paint Roller Set-up
Now that you have a complete roller set-up you need something to put the paint into. A paint roller pan works fine for small projects where only a small amount of paint is needed but for rolling an entire room or other large areas use a 5 gallon paint bucket with roller grid.
Powered Painting Tools
Airless Sprayer
Airless paint sprayers are a time saver. An airless sprayer can apply more paint faster than any other method. The quality of sprayers on the market varies considerably. All low end airless sprayers aren’t worth the cheap price, professional quality painting tools are more expensive but worth every penny. Along with purchasing or renting a quality sprayer you will need to choose the correct spray tip for the coating being applied.
HVLP Sprayer
HVLP paint sprayers provide a super fine finish and better control than an airless. Although the control is better than an airless the output is much lower, limiting its use. Best used on doors or cabinets and other items requiring control instead of maximum coverage. HVLP paint sprayers are not suited for spraying large areas. Whether spraying cabinets or putting the final touches on a piece of furniture an hvlp sprayer will provide the results you desire.
Power Roller
Power Rollers are sold as stand alone units ready to be used as is or an accessory that can be purchased and attached to an airless sprayer. The stand alone power rollers sold through home improvement outlets are weak machines that are often more frustrating to use than helpful. The power roller accessories designed for professional use can be cumbersome but will apply a lot of paint faster and produce better results.
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All of these painting tools and more will save you a lot of time and additional effort. Also many are suitable for interior or exterior projects. Choose top quality painting tools, combine this with knowledge and you are half way to a beautiful home you can be proud of.
Prevent Damage and Add Color with a Masonry Sealer
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A masonry sealer is very different from clear wood sealers, wood stains or common house paints. All masonry components have an alkaline PH, this is opposite of wood which is slightly acidic. A high PH isn’t tolerated very well by normal house paints or wood stains.
The primary goal of a masonry sealer is to stop liquid water from entering a hard masonry surface but also allow any accumulated water vapor to escape before any damage can occur. Water can readily damage most masonry surfaces after a few years of exposure. In both its liquid or vapor form, water can cause cracking and change the alkaline nature of masonry materials. This will drastically weaken the hard material.
Water damage is very hard to fix once it has happened. Using an appropriate sealer can prevent much of this damage before it occurs and is much cheaper than the repairs after the fact.
Water damage can shows up as white chalky areas or streaks. This is called efflorescence and is deposits of calcium salts that are an important ingredient of stucco, brick, concrete block (cinder blocks) and concrete. Water dissolves these salts and transports them to the surface. If the surface is painted, blistering and eventual peeling will be evident as well. These areas can be soft and easily scraped.
Choosing a Masonry Sealer Depends On
Where It’s Used and the Desired Visual Effect
Any masonry surface can receive a sealer but most products are intended for either horizontal surfaces such as floors or vertical surfaces such as walls. Plus some products are intended for interior use only or exterior use only.
The main types of sealers available are clear penetrating coatings, pigmented coatings and film forming products. All are available in either water base or oil base formulations. Painters favor the acrylic products because the formulations allow water vapor to escape and stop liquid water from entering the surface. Plus they are easier to apply.
Clear sealers can deepen or enrich the color of the surface, but usually will not be visible. These are water sealers and are designed to repel liquid water, but they are not waterproofers. Water vapor will still move through the material.
Water sealers stop liquid water from entering the surface, but allow water vapor out. They are breathable products that can be applied to brick, concrete block, stucco or any masonry material such as stone. Some are designed for use on floors, making them very useful for sealing decorative concrete stains.
Another type of clear masonry sealer is designed to combat graffiti. In this case the sealer is applied in several coats, typically 2-3. The final coat is a sacrificial coat that is pressure washed off with the graffiti. Another coat is applied after the surface has dried. This sealer forms a clear unnoticeable film.
Pigmented coatings are very similar to stains in many ways and can be water sealers or waterproofers. It is possible to change the color of masonry materials and provide waterproofing at the same time. Very appropriate for renewing brick or as an alternative to paint for stucco, concrete block buildings or concrete floors.
The intensity of color can be subtle to solid. This is similar to semi-transparent and solid color exterior wood stains. Can be applied to any masonry surface.
Film forming coatings are more like paint than a stain. They can have a sheen from satin to gloss. These products are waterproofers and some can resist water pressure behind the film. This is very useful for sealing leaky basement walls. As a masonry sealer, a film-forming coating will usually last the longest.
Two examples of film forming coatings are elastomeric paint or epoxy floor coatings. This type of coating can be applied to any horizontal or vertical surface. Check the product label for recommendations as for use on floors. Not all products are suitable to be walked on.
Applying a Masonry Sealer
Brush, roller or airless sprayer can apply all of these different products. Typically spraying is used on vertical surfaces such as walls for an even application, with back rolling or back brushing immediately following the application if needed. Floors should be rolled at the recommended coverage rate.
Before any masonry sealer can be applied, the surface must be cleaned and dry. Pressure washing and some hand scraping can remove the dirt, mold or peeling coatings. If it’s not properly cleaned the sealer or coating will not last. Don’t rush during cleaning or application. All of these products must be applied according to manufactures instructions and only to fully cured masonry surfaces.
