Preparing Surfaces and Selecting Paints

Preparation Prior to Painting  Start by gathering together all the tools and equipment you will need.

Surface Preparations Tools and Supplies TOOLS  Paint scraper  Wire brush  Putty knife  Plane  Glazing putty tool  Sander  Caulking gun  Hammer SUPPLIES  Sandpaper  Emery cloth  Steel wool  Wood filler  Glazing compound  Caulking  Glazing putty  Nails  Spackling compound  Drywall paste  Paint drop cloths  Paint remover

Preparing Surfaces  The goal  Provide a surface to which the paint can make a strong, permanent bond  The surface must be clean, smooth, and free of loose particles such as dust and old paint.

Preparing Surfaces  Very little has to be done to new lumber  Previously painted wood needs to be cleaned and/or flaked wood need to be sanded  Fill all cracks, joints, crevices, and nail holes with wood putty, plastic wood, or caulking

Preparing Surfaces  Any stains should be removed.  Mildew is a black fungus-based stain that occurs in moist conditions.  Wash the area with household bleach or TSP (trisodium phosphate) diluted in warm water.

Oil Based Paint  A solvent-based paint  used mainly as an exterior finish  Cleaned up with turpentine, paint thinner, or a commercial brush cleaner

Latex Paints  Water-based paints  used as either an exterior or interior paint  easy to apply  quick drying  good color retention  water thinned  convenient clean up with soap & water

Flat Finish  Sometimes called an eggshell finish  Can be washed occasionally  Dries with little gloss

Semi-gloss Finish  Moderate gloss  Withstands wear and washes well  Used for walls and ceilings in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms

Gloss Finish  High priced paint  Durable and washes well  Brings out all defects in the surface  Excellent coating