By Eden Do you want to transform the colour of your wall into a shiny matte-finish paint? Do you need clarification as to why even the highest quality paint cracks out after just a few days of painting? The problem here is not the paint quality. Instead, it is the type of surface that doesn’t blend well with your painting technique.
The only solution to this problem is knowing how to paint different surfaces of your house or offices. Choosing the right paint texture, consistency, and quality is essential for each surface. As you paint any surface, the right paint should enhance the surface’s natural beauty, adapt to environmental factors, and stand the test of time.
In this blog, we’ll discuss preparing the surface before painting, finding the right colour, and applying the paint correctly. Ultimately, we will also see some tips and safety concerns you must remember even when finding painters in Richmond.
So, why wait to begin the painting? Let’s get started.
Understanding Different Surfaces
● Wood Surfaces:
Wood surfaces have natural grain in their appearance. While some of the grain on wood is thick and dense, it can also appear fine and smooth at other times. So, while painting, you must see the texture of wood and grain direction to achieve an even wood painting.
In addition, wood surfaces are prone to humidity and can absorb paint more quickly. So, it is crucial to consider the uniqueness of wood while painting.
● Metal Surfaces:
Rust is a common issue with metal surfaces. However, some metal surfaces can expand and contract with temperature changes. Choosing the right paint quality to survive the temperature fluctuations is a perfect match.
● Plaster and Drywall:
Painters in your location must have been familiar with the porosity nature of plaster. Besides, plasters can creak or be a home for moulds and mildew. This can affect the overall appearance of the paint. So, finding the colour that can sustain the outer environment is critical.
Drywalls are joined during installation and are covered with paper. Rest assured, there is nothing much to worry about when painting drywall boards.
● Brick and Concrete:
Brick and concrete can turn white and uneven during moist weather. Sometimes, bricks and concrete can absorb paint faster than any other surface, so it is best to consult the best painters to create a perfect finish on the surface.
Surface Preparation
Here are some general preparation methods that you can use before painting. Preparing the specific surface type will smooth the painting process and have long-lasting results.
- Remove dirt, dust, and grease off the surfaces with mild detergent, water, and scrub brush. Consider pressure washing for exterior surfaces.
- Fill and patch the cracks, dents and holes on the surface. This will help the surface prepare for sanding and get a smooth finish.
Surface-specific Preparation:
Wood: After filling in the wood filler and sanding the wood, inspect the knots within the wood. If you find any, seal them with a knotting solution. Use a high-quality primer to get an even and durable painting. Use double coatings depending on the type of wood. Ensure you provide sufficient drying time for the primer before applying the next.
Metal: Cleaning a metal involves removing rust with a wire wheel or sandpaper. You can also consider using rust remover for stubborn rust. Create a rough texture with medium-grit sandpaper and then with finer-grit sandpaper.
Apply a fine coat of metal primer covering the entire surface. Re-sand the primed surface with fine-grit sandpaper to remove imperfections. Clean with a dry cloth once the area looks dry after a few minutes.
Plaster and Drywall: Use fine sandpaper for drywall and slightly dense sandpaper for plaster to remove rough spots. Wipe away the sanding residue and apply primer designed explicitly for plaster and drywall. Sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper and clean with a tack cloth.
Brick and Concrete: Address brick and concrete walls and surfaces with special care. Do pressure washing as the first step in the preparation process, then clean the stubborn stains with concrete cleaner. Take the help of professional painters in your location if required.
If white deposits like efflorescence are present, consider removing them with a wire brush and clean water. Even using the efflorescence cleaner is an excellent way to achieve a glass-like surface.
Allow the surface to dry, and then patch any holes or cracks. If you paint bare concrete, use an etching solution to keep the paint on for a long time.
Choosing the Right Paint
Now that you are familiar with cleaning the surface, consider different paint options. Painters in Richmond will always know how to choose the right paint. So it is best to hire a professional for other paints.
Latex vs. oil-based
Choosing the right paint between latex and oil-based paints depends on many factors. To be specific, latex is a water-based paint. As a result, it makes them quicker to dry, applies well to any surface, and is easy to clean. Painters use latex paint for interior and exterior projects as a beginner-friendly option. Consider using latex paints for drywall and plaster for best results.
Oil-based paints are alkyd paints that make them hard and durable for exterior surfaces. If you can tolerate the strong odour of oil-based paints, then consider investing in them. Besides, these are much better for achieving a smooth finish with no brush marks and fingerprints. Alongside, the paint can be a good solution for areas with lots of stains and wear and tear issues.
Speciality paints
Consider using speciality paints like enamel and epoxy, as each flaunts its glossy finish. While enamel paints blend well with oil-based or water-based paints, these are common for areas like woodwork, trim, cabinets, furniture, exterior doors, high-traffic areas, radiators, and heaters.
With a high glossy finish and resistance to heat and the outside environment, these paints favour most interior and exterior needs.
On the other hand, epoxy paints are helpful for chemical-resistant surfaces like garages, patios, decks, concrete, bathroom and kitchen tiles, metal coatings, etc.
Painting Techniques
Here are a few strategies you can adopt while painting wood, metal, plaster, drywall, or brick-concrete surfaces.
Surface-specific Painting Techniques:
Wood: Wood surfaces need minute detailing and better coverage while painting. That is why it is best that you use spraying for covering large surfaces like doors, walls, fences, or outdoor siding. Painters in your location will also advise you to do brushing for small and smooth areas.
Metal: It is advisable to use high-quality brushes designed for a specific paint when painting metal surfaces. Metals make brush marks more visible, so apply one long and even stroke while using thin coats to level the surface naturally. Rust removers or rust converters are also great options for scraping away rusted metals.
Plaster and drywall: Plaster and drywall need efficient and even painting compared to other surfaces. Use a paintbrush to cover edges, sides, and minor surface areas to create a border before using a roller. Make an “M” or “W” for a smooth finish to avoid lap marks.
Brick and concrete: Use masonry paint for textured surfaces like stone, brick and concrete. Use a stiff brush followed by a roller to achieve a consistent finish when painting such surfaces.
Takeaway
Remember that painting any surface requires special care and attention. You will always have an upper hand with painting when you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each surface before painting.
We have walked you through the steps of understanding each surface, preparing them before colouring them, and choosing the right paint. We have also outlined the practical painting techniques for proper paint adhesion. Remember that painters in Richmond are always available at your service and are just a call away. Choose Sunny Days Painting for the top-quality painting for your house, office or commercial setting.