Exterior painting in Johns Creek can give new life to your home and enhances the curb appeal. While every homeowner knows painting is a great way to deliver a more beautiful interior, it’s not always obvious what professional painters do that’s different. Luckily, a few of the secrets of professional painters are well-known. Although it takes a lot of time and experience to get as good as the experts, there are some basics that are universal.
1. Everything Goes
Every professional painter has at least one or two horror stories about a time homeowner didn’t move everything out of the room. Drywall dust tends to go everywhere, and paint splatters or minor mistakes happen to everyone. No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. Remove everything, including light fixtures, furniture, pictures, and doors if necessary. You can’t damage or stain items that aren’t present. This may seem like a simple rule, but it’s an important one.
2. Fix It
Minor cracks and dents are inevitable. It happens in every home. Fortunately, painter’s putty or a lightweight spackle can quickly fix these minor inconveniences. For wood, you can use a two-part wood filler instead. It’s essential that all cracks and dents are repaired before you get ready to paint. Painting can make these little defects more apparent.
3. Sand
Sanding does two main things. First and foremost, it feathers out any chipped paint. Second, sanding provides a better surface so the paint can adhere more easily. This makes the paint appear smoother and more even. Sanding is something that should never be skipped. It’s a vital step in the painting process. The professionals like to use a sanding sponge rather than sandpaper. Sponges mold better and last longer.
4. Avoid Dust
When it comes to painting, dust is no one’s friend. Before you begin painting, wash your walls with trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a mild cleaner, such as Jasco’s TSP No-Rinse Substitute. This removes the dust and other debris that can get in the way. If you paint over dust, it’ll be noticeable. The walls will look oddly textured and uneven. If you have smoke-stained walls, use a 50/50 solution of bleach and water. As you rinse and clean, make sure that you always rinse your sponge in a second bucket of clean water.
5. Caulk
Gaps must be filled in. Filling in gaps with a paintable acrylic-latex caulk helps to eliminate drafts, and it makes trim look significantly better. The key is to cut the tip smaller than you think it should be. Caulk tends to expand. If allowed to, caulk will get everywhere. If you’re inexperienced, it can be a bit difficult to control. When breaking the inner seal, the experts recommend using a wire rather than a nail. Nails usually expand the opening. A dripless caulk gun might be a wise investment. They’re designed to prevent unwanted oozing.
6. Use Tape
The professionals are divided on this one. Some love tape, while others have mastered cutting in. Cutting in is painting precisely the surface you want, while leaving adjacent surfaces untouched. It takes time to practice and truly master this, so most people would be better served by using tape. Painter’s tape is highly recommended. Masking tape can cause issues.
An experienced residential painting contractor in Johns Creek will know all these tricks and more. Contact Fillo Painting at(770) 769-7941, if you have any questions or prefer a professional painter to complete your next painting project.