Proper Preparation, A Paint Sprayer, And A Plan
Even with the rising cost of materials, painting continues to be one of the most cost efficient ways to dramatically improve the look of a home. Exterior surfaces need to be protected against the elements while interior painting is an easy and inexpensive option to freshen up a tired look. Painting is something every homeowner can do themselves to save money and invest a little sweat equity. Painting an interior room is a job most homeowners feel comfortable tackling over a weekend but what about painting an entire exterior or a large vaulted ceiling? Jobs like that require professional tools and planning. A paint sprayer can save you time and money if you prepare the project like a pro.
Large paint projects scare some because of the scope while others fear the shame in having to turn a half-finished job over to a professional contractor. Painting is hard work but with proper preparation and planning, complicated paint jobs can be completed by most homeowners.
It's vital to determine the scope of a project prior to the planning stage. A written, well thought out plan of materials and tools necessary to complete a paint job will save time and money. A thorough preparation of all surfaces to be painted is necessary to achieve a long lasting finished product. Flaking paint needs to be sanded, rust should be addressed with a rust converter followed by a rust inhibiting primer, and all raw wood and metal should be primed. Cracks and holes should be filled with caulking or putty. Flooring, lights, and every surface that isn't getting painted should be masked with paper or plastic to protect against overspray and spatter. The entire work area should be clean and free of debris to prevent accidents and to make the actual painting easier. Once everything is prepared and primed it's time to paint.
Brush, roll, spray, or a combination? The choice of applicator shouldn't be taken lightly as making the wrong choice will cost time and money. Spraying is by far the fastest method of applying paint but it also uses at least 20 percent more material than brushing or rolling as a result of overspray. A sprayed finish is most desirable on substrates with a smooth finish. Exterior surfaces such as stucco and rough sawn wood should be sprayed and back rolled to fully penetrate the surface and achieve a uniform finish. Spraying will save time if proper planning and preparation methods are utilized. French windows and doors, small sections of trim, gutters, and other narrow surfaces are ideal candidates for brushing. Brushing is the slowest method of painting but expensive paint isn't wasted on overspray or roller spatter. Paint rollers work best on large flat surfaces. Professional painters prefer the spray method whenever possible because of the speed at which paint can be applied with a sprayer.
Large, complicated paint projects are intimidating to even the most daring homeowners. Planning and preparation play a key role in a successful large paint job. Big box home improvement warehouses sell paint but paint stores offer free advice and contain a wealth of knowledge and experience to go along with quality products. Plan the job, prepare like a pro, and get painting!
About the Author
For more information about paint sprayers and how to choose the right one for any job, visit http://www.paintsprayerguide.com
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