- Is there a way I can test my exterior paint to see if it contains lead?
Yes. There are several do-it-yourself test kits that are approved by the EPA. Go to www.epa.govleadpubskits.htm for a listing of test kits that...
- Is there a good time to paint outside?
Always check the paint can for specific recommendations. But for general guidelines, you want the paint to dry evenly, so try to paint in the shade...
- Do I need to prime my ceiling before painting it?
While its always a good idea to prime before painting, unless you ceiling has stains, you probably dont need to because it doesnt take the...
- What type of primer should I use on ceilings?
It depends on factors such as whether or not there are stains that need attention and if you are painting the ceiling white or giving it some color....
- I have stains on my wall that keep bleeding through the paint surface. How do I prevent this?
You need to prime the area first with a shellac-base primer. The resins in shellac base primers seal out stains so they cant bleed back...
- What type of caulk should I use on trim before painting?
Use siliconized acrylic latex caulk. It tends to be more flexible and has better adhesion. This will prevent cracks later...
- What are the differences in paint gloss types?
Semi-gloss and higher are more durable and can be lightly scrubbed down if the walls get dirty. For large areas of wall, such as a hallway, flat or...
- What is the difference between two paints?
Different types of paint with have different amounts of solids and resins in it. Some even come with warranties from 15 years to a...
- What type of paint is best for my project?
Price matters. The more expensive it is, the better performance you will get. You want to understand the types of binders and solids in your paint...
- How long will I have to wait between coats of paint?
While drying times can vary based on factors such as humidity, plan on waiting about four hours when you are using latex paint. If you are using...
- Can I store unused spray paint? Sometimes I have paint left in an old can of spray paint but the tip is clogged.
Paint dries in the tip if you do not flush it out. When you are finished with your project, you can turn the can upside down for a few seconds and...
- Should I use a primer?
In most cases, you need a primer if the surface has never been painted before. If you are repainting something, you will need a primer if...
- How long will I have to wait between coats of paint?
While drying times can vary based on factors such as humidity, plan on waiting about four hours when you are using latex paint. If you are using...
- Is there a good time to paint outside?
Always check the paint can for specific recommendations. But for general guidelines, you want the paint to dry evenly, so try to paint in...
- What type of paint should I use in my kitchen?
High-gloss paints are great for high-traffic areas because they provide a tough, washable finish that also resists water and grease. Use them...
- What is an eggshell finish?
Its a paint that has a little more sheen than a flat paint, which makes it easier to clean and gives it a more lustrous appearance. It...
- Where should I use a flat paint?
These are also called matte finishes and they are good for walls and ceilings in lower-traffic...
- What does the term gloss paint mean?
It refers to how shiny the paint is. Manufacturers use terms such as flat, satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss to describe their paint, but there...
- How do I recognize a good paint?
Paint has three components the binder, the pigment and the liquid. The best paints contain a higher volume of solid materials. Pay close attention...
- What is an oil-based paint?
These paints have resins and thinners in them that evaporate when the paint dries. This process forms a hard coating and provides heavier...
- How much of an area will a gallon of paint cover?
For many paints, a gallon will cover 400 square feet. However, the quality of the paint can affect how much it will cover. The label on...
- What is meant by “open” time when using glazes?
Open time refers to the time it takes for the glaze to begin setting up. This is generally the amount of time you have to reach your desired effect....
- Should I apply a protective coating over a faux finish?
While it isnt mandatory, it will enhance the durability. Just be sure to let the glaze dry for two days before...
- Other than walls, where are faux finishes generally used?
Faux finishing is quite popular on furniture, lamps, bowlsyou name...
- Can I paint over a wall where a faux finish has been applied?
Yes. Several coats of a latex paint should do the...
- How much glaze will I need for an average room?
It depends, but generally one quart of tinted paint to six quarts of glaze is common. When using acrylic glaze, the ratio increases to one quart of...
- Can I combine several different faux finish techniques?
Yes. However, be sure to try out the various techniques first on a scrap piece of drywall to make sure they will look good before applying them to...
- What type of precautions should I take when using paint stripper?
When using strippers, be sure to read the safety and usage instructions on the label. Wear chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing,...
- What is the difference between a solvent and a thinner?
A thinner is generally used to thin a liquid finish while a solvent is used to dissolve an existing finish that has been...