Selecting the Correct Paint
In order to provide a protective surface, more than one coat is required. Successive layers applied build up to a good coloured surface finish. The number of coats of paint depends on the type of paint being applied and the colour and condition of the surface to be covered. The surface material to be covered is related to the choice of paint used. For example when painting wooden doors or windows use primer, undercoat and top coat.
There are two main categories of paint on the market: oil based and water based paint. They come in different finishes, giving a gloss or matt finish.
Gloss paint gives a shiny finish whereas matt gives a dull finish. Apart from their finish, gloss paint is known for its strength but matt paint covers the surface colour best and doesn't highlight faults in the surface as much as gloss paint.
It is wise to use a paint kettle instead of the tin of paint. A kettle is a smaller, more convenient vessel with a handle used for paint. Tie a length of string across the kettle to wipe too much paint from the brush. The paint kettle is a more convenient size to carry around. Also should the paint become splattered with grit or mortar, all the paint will not have been contaminated apart from that small amount.
Water Based Paint
The most common type of water based paint is emulsion. There are two finishes - matt or silk and an endless range of colours. It comes as a traditional liquid, solid (bought in a tray) or as a non-drip jelly.
If walls or ceilings are to be covered, then 2 or 3 coats of the same paint is sufficient. If the paint is to be applied in a particularly busy area, it is worth remembering that satin finish is less likely to show finger marks or scuffing. There are many non-drip paints available, which are particularly sensible to use when painting ceilings. Some cover in just one coat finishes.
Emulsion can be applied with a brush, but for larger areas, use a tray and roller to apply the paint. Emulsions bought in a tray is applied with a roller with no drip and minimal splattering of paint.
If the surface is particularly rough, then a textured emulsion, containing fine aggregate can give an attractive finish, covering many imperfections.
If emulsion paint becomes too thick it can be thinned by mixing in a little water.
Cement Based Paint
Cement based paint gives a matt finish which can be used as an inexpensive way to cover large areas, such as cellars and garages. It is sold in powder form which has to be mixed with water before application.
Oil Based Paint
Solvent based paint, often known as oil based paint is made from a mixture of resins and oils.
Covering woodwork or metalwork requires the use of different paint types used in conjunction with each other. The surface is prepared, suitably primed and sealed before one or two undercoats and the top coat are applied. The undercoat is a cheaper paint which covers any underlying colour and fills small surface faults.
If the surface is uneven, it is better to apply a satin finish top coat rather than a high gloss finish, which could highlight any irregularities further. Gloss paint requires one or two coats of undercoat.
Satin finish has a much finer texture and forms its own undercoat. In either case, the top coat dries to a hard, durable finish.
If the paint becomes too thick it can be thinned using white spirit, unless the manufacturer recommends a special thinner to give a particular finish. |
