Tools
Use a quality tools. You’ll get the job done faster and better.
Brushes and Rollers
Use synthetic brush for acrylic/latex paint, and a natural-bristle brush for alkyds (oil)
paint. Clean your brushes properly after painting. Use mineral solvents for alkyds paint
and water for latex. You can temporarily (meaning a day or two) store oil (used) brushes
and rollers in your freezer by wrapping them in a plastic bag or by just leaving them in a
mineral solution. You can temporarily store your latex (used) brushes and rollers in
water. Don’t forget to buy quality brushes. They’ll pay off with performance and
saved time.
Paint
Buy quality paints. You won’t be sorry. If you go cheap, you just might regret it.
Paint Primer
Prime the paint surface when required. Paint may not adhere properly to many surfaces
without a primer application.
Cleaning
Clean up with a shop vacuum before painting. You’ll eliminate dirt accumulation on
your brush and baseboard and walls.
Mildew
Kill off any mildew with a bleach solution and clean up with a soap, water and a stiff
brush. Mildew will grow beneath your new paint job.
Moisture
Repair any moisture problem areas. Although we have water-soluble paints, your paint job
will fail if the wall/surface you are painting is wet.
Paint & Supplies
Buy your paint and supplies at the paint store where the professionals shop. The sales
counter veteran is generally a walking painting encyclopedia.
Painting Preparation
Use proper drop cloths. For quick cover you can use plastic.
Danger Work
Water/oil and electricity don’t mix. If you are planning on painting around wires and
have not done so before, don’t bother doing it now. Call a professional.
Mother Nature
Paint when everyone else paints. In case you were assuming that we are only talking about
cold and wet days, you’re wrong. A scorching sunny day will not only give you a
sunburn, but will ruin your paint job.
Who Will Paint - Contractor vs. Self
If you can afford it, pay a professional to do your job. If you are not sure, get a quote.
A seasoned professional will do a quality paint job and will be in and out of your home in
no time.
Do you have a paint tip? Please
send it to paint@pmho.com
