Not everyone is a master painter. You could be a first-time homeowner looking to brighten up your new bathroom or maybe you just want to renew an old piece of furniture with a fresh coat of paint. Regardless of the situation, there are four basic steps to completing any painting project. They are the four P’s of painting: Paint selection, Preparation, Priming and Painting.
Paint Selection
This is the most important part of the painting process. Not only do you need to choose your colors based upon personal preference, but the colors need to work together with the environment as a whole. Are you going for a warm, flat, traditional feel or a cool, glossy, contemporary vibe? This can vary based upon taste.
It is also essential to select the right paint type based upon its purpose. Some paints are designed to protect from the elements while others make for an easy-to-clean surface. They range from purely decorative to acoustic-controlling paints. Ask an expert any questions you may have to make sure you get out of the gate on the right foot.
Preparation
Once you’ve bought your paint, you then need to prepare the surface for later application. About 70% of the total time spent on paint projects should be spent on preparing the surface for application. A properly prepared surface should be clean, dull and dry to ensure the paint will stick. This is also the stage where repairs are made to any dents, knicks or holes. Be sure to sand down all repairs to a flat, even surface. It’s important to fix any deterioration of the substrate, and its underlying cause, as a new coat of paint won’t restore it.
Priming
Once prepped, make sure to fully prime the surface as it will make your paint job look better and last longer. Priming seals and bonds the substrate, prevents stains and vivid colors from showing through and creates a paintable surface for topcoats. Primer is formulated to adhere well to the substrate and prevent the buildup of moisture on the surface which can weaken a paint’s bond and could lead to pealing and bubbling over time.
Painting
Just like the primer, it is recommended to use a brush, roller or pad to apply your first coat. Although latex- and oil-based paints can also be applied these ways, cleaning them after using oil-based paints is difficult and will require paint thinner. Flat paints can be applied using traditional methods as well as a sprayer. When applying gloss, metal or floor paint, a brush is the preferred form of application.
Remember, even the most novice of painters can complete a painting project like an experienced veteran by following the four P’s of painting. For your professional painting needs, contact CertaPro Painters of Cherry Hill today.
