Many assume they know what the key to a great looking and long lasting paint job is:

1. Top of the line paint.
2. Doing it according to the salespersons instructions.
3. What ever a method a freind or family member has always used.
4. Some tip from a T.V. show
5. Taking your time.
6. Hiring a pro.

Some of these will make a difference, but they are like a symphony orchestra. Each individual instrument sounding alright by it self, but not being able to harmonize together without proper preparation.

Proper prep can easily take as much or more time than the actual painting itself. Without it, problems can stink up your work like a tuna sandwich left in the sun on a hot day. So, unless you hire a trusted pro, follow some of these procedures.

1. Clean, clean , clean! Make sure the surfaces you are coating are free of dust, smoke, grease, hairspray (bathroom wall next to mirror) and food or paint might not stick as intended.
2. Patch nail holes or any holes in the wall . C’mon, don’t try to fill them with paint! It probably won’t work then you have to go back, fill the hole and paint again. Use a decent spackle and sand it level and smooth. Be prepared to apply several coats on larger repairs.
3. Sand. Yes, sanding or abrading the surface will give the paint some “tooth” to stick to. Have yet to read a can of paint that did not recommend sanding a glossy surface before painting. If your can does not have application instructions on it, I’d think about another brand.
4. Clean, Clean, Clean! Yes do it again!
5. Caulk cracks and joints. Do this after you clean because caulk does not like to stick to a dirty surface. (just like paint) If you have bare wood or drywall in must be primed first so the caulk will stick to that also. You may even save a few dollars by keeping drafts from entering through the cracks.
6. READ the can or go to the manufactures website. The paint manufactures want you to have success with their products. Most have sections for home owners on the website. When you find the product you are using, look for a link to TDS (technical data sheets).

The tips above pretty much apply to interior painting or exterior painting. If you live in the Annapolis, AnneArundle, Queen Annes or Talbot county areas, we’d like to be able to serve you.

These are just some of the things you need to consider for preparing your project. If in doubt, call your local pro.

www.marylandpainter.net