Painting Tips

Finding Your True Colors

Once applied, paint color may look a little different than it appeared on the small sample paper in the store. To avoid disappointment and extra work, buy only a quart of the color you want to use and paint it on a foam board. Place the painted board in different spots in a room to see how natural and artificial lighting affects the color.

How Much Paint to Buy

We recommend one gallon for every 400 square feet. Textured, rough or unprimed surfaces may require more.

Oil and Water Don’t Mix

Never apply latex, water-based paint on an oil finish and vice versa. If you’re not sure which type of paint is already on a surface, apply some rubbing alcohol to a dry white cloth and rub it on the surface or wall. If the paint softens and transfers to the cloth, it is water-based latex.

Eco-friendly Paint

Some types of paint can release small amounts of toxic gas into the air for years after it has been applied. Choose paint with low VOC’s - these are often identified with a green seal. Ask Blue Crew Painters LLC about “green painting” products for your home or business in Huntersville.

Clean:

Remember to clean walls, ceilings and all surfaces with a simple solution of TSP and water before painting. Rinse lightly and allow to dry overnight. Dust and brush baseboards, trim and crown moldings before taping. Sand all surfaces (especially if textured) for best results.

Tape and Floor Protection:

Overlap tape at the edges to avoid seepage and seal tightly. Drop cloths or old sheets are best for protecting floors from paint splatter. Plastic sheets can get slippery and cause hazards. As an alternative to taping, use a good quality painter’s edger to save time.

Fill:

Use spackle to fill in any holes and cracks prior to painting using a wide, flat blade tool. Let dry, sand until smooth and apply primer to each spot.

Remove:

Tape screws to the base covers when removing electrical outlet covers for a much neater job. Apply tape over the outlet switch.