Five Secrets for Perfect Paint Jobs

Painting projects offer a low cost, high effect opportunity for a home renovation project. A fresh coat of paint can really make a home look new and fresh. The secret, though, is in getting the job done properly. A poor paint job can have the opposite effect and make your home look worse than it did before. Follow these five secrets to perfect paint jobs to make your home improvement really shine.

Start with the Right Paint for the Job.
There are many different kinds of paint and the paint you choose to use is very important to the end result. Latex paint and water-based paint may be the most popular choices, owing to fewer fumes during the paint job and easier cleanup, but oil based and alkyd paints are more durable and will last longer. Oil and alkyd paint should be used for exterior paint projects and may be used for interior jobs too. They are more difficult to apply properly, but their durability means it will be longer before you have to repaint.

Use the Best Finish for the Situation.
Avoid flat paints in most situations. While they will hide some surface imperfections, they are not durable, and are susceptible to mildew, moisture, dirt and other problems. Glossy finishes will be best for kitchens and bathrooms and eggshell or satin finishes for the rest of the house.

Prepare the Surface for Success.
Many people fail to prepare the surface properly before painting. Make sure you clean the surface thoroughly. Repair any cracks, scratches, pits or holes. Sand the surface and/or apply a primer coat before painting. Proper surface preparation makes all the difference.

Employ the Right Tools for the Job
There are many different kinds of paintbrushes and rollers. The selection is so large because certain tools work better with certain paints. When preparing for your home improvement paint job, select the brushes or rollers recommended for the paint you are using. Using the right brushes and rollers will ensure the best results. The same principle applies to sprayers. Some sprayers will work better with a given paint formulation than others. Refer to the suggestions from your paint’s manufacturer.

Consider Hiring a Painting Contractor.
Boston paint contractors know paint. They paint homes for a living and know exactly what paints work best in your area and for your situation. They can prepare the surfaces and the paint formulations professionally and know exactly how to use the right tools. A professional Boston painter will always be your best bet for a perfect paint job.