BUT FIRST, PREP

“Do I have to?” Technically, no. But will it keep you from a) cringing every time you look at your work or b) repainting to fix what you could have done right the first time? More than likely, yes.

You’ll find detailed instructions on how to prep almost any type of surface online, but here’s a quick list that applies to most things:

1. Clean previously painted surfaces.
2. Fill holes and patch cracks.
3. Tape off or cover areas you don’t want painted (like baseboards/molding) or that might get splattered (like the floor).

Once you’ve done that, gathered your tools and turned on some tunes, it’s time to tackle those tricky spots, like…

TIGHT CORNERS

Image: Zibra

Painting a nice, flat wall is one thing…applying paint to narrow spaces and tight corners is another. When you’re faced with one of these DIY challenges, put down the big roller and grab…

1. A brush—preferably a small (1- to 2-inch) angled or triangle-shaped brush. Or try one of the specialty tools available, like…
2. corner rollers or
3. angled paint pads. Whatever tool(s) you use, stay zen and don’t get in a hurry. Exercising patience now will pay off with a beautifully painted surface later.

BEHIND A TOILET

Image: Max Vakhtbovycn

There are two basic methods: one involves removing the tank (not the whole toilet); the other doesn’t. Both methods involve covering your toilet (trash bags are your friend here) and doing the usual prep in the surrounding area. If you’re not removing the tank, at least take off the lid; you’ll get more clearance that way. Then:

1. Whip out a mini roller. Most of the time, one of those will fit behind a toilet. If it doesn’t, you can…
2. Wrap a clean rag around a paint stick, dip it in paint and slide between the tank and wall to apply paint.

If there’s not enough room for that, ask yourself: will anyone actually be able to see whether you painted back there? If the answer is no, do you really need to paint it? It’s your choice, but if your answer is yes, you’ll need to remove the toilet tank to access that area.

CEILINGS

Image: MTCopeland.com

We could give you a lengthy list of tools and how to use them, but Lilith over at Livingetc already did that, so if ceilings are on your to-do list, check out what she had to say. If your ceiling is the popcorn variety, here are a few tips just for you:

1. Vacuum it first with a soft bristle attachment (so you don’t paint dust and cobwebs).
2. Use a primer, or paint that includes a primer.
3. If you’re using a roller, make sure the nap of the roller is the same thickness as your ceiling’s texture.

FYI, there are paints designed specifically for ceilings that go on tinted and dry white, so you can see any spots you missed. Reviews of the results are mixed, though, so as always, do your homework before choosing your paint.

STAIRWELL

Image: William Richardson

Proper equipment and preparation are vital when working on and around stairs. The basics of preparation, cutting in, etc. are the same as any wall, but reaching these particular walls can be a challenge. Here are some tools that can help:

1. Extension ladder – the kind that allows you to make one side shorter than the other. Or you can opt to stay on the ground (or the stairs, anyway) and do it all with:
2. An extension pole for your roller and edger.
3. A painting buddy – this one is non-negotiable. Someone needs to hold the ladder and/or watch to make sure you don’t absent-mindedly step off the landing because you’re focused on painting. Safety first!

It’s not the easiest place to paint, but if you think you’re up for the challenge, check out these tips and good luck!

EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE

Image: Antoni Shkraba Studio

What’s the easiest way to get a professional-looking paint job in those hard-to-reach places? Hire a professional. Leave the ladder in the garage and contact us for a quote.

Note: product links are provided for informational purposes only and are not a recommendation of brands or items.

The post TIPS FOR PAINTING HARD-TO-REACH SPACES appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

1.  KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

Image:  SCHVETS production

The second of Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People^® is “begin with the end in mind.” That goes for interior design, too. Are you after a more efficient or appealing use of space? Do you want to make changes that will allow you to age in place? Is your goal to increase your home’s value? Are you sick of those 1990’s design choices and want to bring your home into this century? There are many valid reasons to remodel, and those reasons will help determine your choices.  

2.  SET YOUR BUDGET

Image: Mikhail Nilov

The Spruce calls this “one of the trickiest but most crucial steps” of a remodel and we agree. They recommend that you “Come up with your number, then tack 10 to 15% onto that, and that’s likely what you’ll spend.” You may need to board your pets or move the whole family to temporary quarters, spend more money on take-out (especially if your kitchen is part of the remodel), pay for storage, etc., so factor in as much of that as possible. Plus, there’s always the possibility of an unexpected hit to the budget once the project gets underway, so a contingency fund is vital.

3.  SAY IT WITH PICTURES

Image: Pexels

Words mean different things to different people. If you’re working with a designer, show them photos of the look you’re after. Contractors work off plans, not airy conversations about what goes where. You’ll need words, too—especially in contracts—but sometimes pictures, whether a Pinterest board or an architectural drawing, are worth a thousand words and often more than that in dollars. Tip:  Keep all your contracts, drawings, pictures, checklists, etc. in one easy-to-access place so you can refer to them when you need to. At some point in the process, you will need to.

4.  DON’T COMMIT TOO EARLY

Image: Airam Dato-on

Specifically, don’t commit to a paint color that may look amazing on a chip or a computer mockup, but not so fabulous in the actual space. Adding or subtracting walls and/or windows can change the feel of a room more than expected. The lighting may not be what you expected. Try out your color with big swatches in your new space and pay attention to how it looks at different times of day and in both natural and artificial light. It’s better to find out if your chosen color works before you paint the whole space so you can avoid the expense and time to redo it.

5.  KNOW WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

Yes, doing it yourself might save money, but at what cost? Before you decide to strap on a tool belt and dive in, consider the potential time, aggravation, relationship stress, and safety issues that may result. Family Handyman warns that DIY renos “can turn disastrous if you don’t know what you’re doing.” Be realistic about which projects you can safely tackle and which are best left to a professional. Safety first!

6.  CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE

Image: WallpaperAccess.com

Warning: Even in the smoothest renovation, something will not go as planned. Plan on it. Determine to stay as positive as possible. Yes, your project is important, but the fate of the world does not hinge on whether you can get a specific style of cabinet pull. Weather happens. Delays happen. Life happens. When it does, you can 1) work yourself into a tizzy and end up in the hospital due to stress or 2) breathe, keep calm and carry on. You, your family, your contractors and your home will all come out of the experience better if you choose option two.

For more renovation tips, check out The Ultimate Renovation List, 20 Tips for Planning a Successful House Remodel, 7 Must-Follow Tips for Starting a House Renovation, and 10+ Ways to Prep for a Major Home Renovation.

The post 6 THINGS TO DO BEFORE TACKLING A RENOVATION appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

GET INSPIRED

Image: Ivabalk from Pixabay

Start with something you already love:  bedding, furniture, artwork, your favorite sweater…the possibilities are endless. You can pull colors from a pattern, match it (that sweater may be the perfect color for your bathroom), or find a shade that makes your inspiration piece pop. That will help narrow the field so you’re less likely to get distracted by the multitude of color choices. But first…

UNDERSTAND YOUR UNDERTONES

Image:  Sherwin Williams

Say you’ve got a color in mind…but do you want a warm or cool undertone? What does that look like? The next time you’re out looking at Christmas lights, pay attention to the white ones: notice how some have a creamy look to them, while others are almost-but-not-quite blue. The creamy ones are warm white while the others are cool. Warm colors tend to feel cozier while cool colors are often more soothing. But wait:  there’s more to consider…

SEE THE LIGHT

Image: Amel Majanovic on Unsplash

Light itself comes in different colors. South-facing rooms often have a warmer light, so you might opt for a cooler shade there to offset the heat. On the other hand, north-facing rooms get cooler light, so that same cool shade might be too chilly on that side of the house. East- and west-facing windows may get warm or cool light, so you’ll want to test your samples at different times during the day. Speaking of testing…

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Image: Samplize

Whether you’re painting one room or the whole house, getting the color wrong can be annoying and expensive. Fortunately, these days it’s easier than ever to test drive a color on your walls. Most paint companies offer tester pots, so you can paint a piece of foam board and move it around the room to see how it looks in different lights and spaces. Or you can order removable sticky squares—think paint chips on steroids—from most paint manufacturers or companies like Samplize. Finally…

CHECK YOUR SHEEN

Image:  Kenyarae.com

Once you’re happy with your color choice, there’s one more thing to consider:  sheen. Sheen refers to the finish of the paint and how shiny it is (or isn’t). Choosing the right one can make big difference to the final look and feel of your room. Here at ProTek we’re happy to offer recommendations on the perfect sheen for your space; you can also find articles like this one to walk you through your options.

So, you’ve chosen the perfect color, selected the right sheen and now it’s time to paint. Or maybe it’s time to request a consultation and let us do the painting for you. Either way, you have beautiful walls in your future!

The post PAINT 101:  GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

1. MAKE A PLAN

Before you start chucking things into the driveway, decide what you want the end result to be. Do you want a workshop? Holiday storage? Room to park a car? What kind of storage options do you need to get to that place? When can you set aside time to make it happen? Remember: failing to plan is planning to fail.

2. GET IT ALL OUT

Organize as you go into keep, sell, donate, or trash piles. This Old House suggests laying out “dedicated tarps or mark off areas of your driveway with chalk and place them there.” Don’t think about it too hard at this stage; go with your first instinct. You can look at your things one more time before they leave permanently.

3. DO A CLEAN SWEEP

Literally. Sweep and mop the floor, wipe down the walls and ceiling, clean any windows. Don’t forget to wash the garage door and surrounds. Once you’re done, you’ll have a nice, fresh canvas to work with.

4. ORGANIZE YOUR “KEEP” PILE

Storing like things together to make them easier to find. The Spruce likes the idea of zones: “Think of zones like departments in a store, such as the garden area, the tools section, and so on. That way you know where each item ‘lives.’” Put things you don’t use as often in out-of-the-way places, like corners or up high. Be sure any chemicals or tools are out of reach of little fingers.

5. RE-STORE YOUR STUFF

Use vertical space as much as you can. There are countless wall shelving options available (the one in the picture is from Flow Wall) plus there’s all that space overhead just waiting to be used. Family Handyman has some great DIY garage storage tips (check out the one that uses concrete forming tubes!).

6. GET RID OF YOUR UNWANTED ITEMS

Like, right now. If you wait, they’ll just end up back in the garage. Schedule that garage sale. (See some great garage sale tips.) Take your donations to your favorite charity and your trash to the bin or the dump. If you need help with that, you can hire a teenager or get professionals from a service like Dolly.com.

It will take some thought, time, and elbow grease, but every time you open the door to your beautifully organized garage you’ll know it was worth it.

The post SPRING CLEAN YOUR GARAGE IN 6 STEPS appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

One of the best ways to upgrade your space and make it feel more expensive is by focusing attention on your interior doors. Today we’ll share how you can give your interior doors a fresh face in just a weekend! Need a little inspiration to get you started? We’ve got that for you too.

1. Assess the condition of your current doors.

Before you start giving your doors a refresh, you’ll want to make sure they’re still in good condition. Do your doors still work well? Is there any damage that needs to be repaired before you paint? If your doors are damaged or no longer working correctly, you may need to start with new ones.

2. Do the prep work.

Too often, home DIY-ers tend to dive right in instead of doing the proper prep work. If you want long-lasting, professional results, don’t skip the preparation upfront. Whether you’re painting over oil or latex-based paint, start by stripping any existing paint on your door. Next, remove any hardware like door handles and door knockers. Sand down the door and cover hinges with painter’s tape. Finally, make sure you have a clean, dry surface. This will ensure the paint adheres to your door and that you’ll have a smooth, professional finish.

3. Choose your color.

If you haven’t already picked a paint color, choose one that goes well with the rest of your room or hallway decor. Ready to start painting? If your door has panels, paint inside of your top panels first. Then, work with the grain of your door, and coat any panels and recessed areas before moving outward to its edges until your door is fully coated. If you’re painting both sides, be sure to wait until the first side is completely dry before moving on.

4. Protect your paint job.

You’ve done the prep work and you’ve applied a paint you love. But you’re not done yet! If you’re applying multiple coats, be sure to let your first coat dry before adding more.

Finished the job? Doors see more wear and tear than almost any other surfaces in our homes, so you’ll want to protect your work. Leave the door open so that it can fully dry. And if you left any of the door’s edges unpainted, use a clear wood sealer to ensure the door doesn’t warp over time.

5. Add your hardware.

Last but not least, your hardware will make a big impact on the final look for your door! We recommend choosing a new, modern door handle that complements your paint shade and the rest of your home.

Looking for help with your next home design project? Decided to paint your interior doors? Our ProTek Painting Services Team is safely serving Middle Tennessee right now, and we’d love to help! Reach out for your consultation and estimate today.

The post How To Paint Your Interior Doors (Plus Some Can’t-Miss Inspiration!) appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

By addressing these 5 things, you’ll instantly make your home more appealing to buyers so you can sell it for top dollar in a flash.

1. Focus on curb appeal.

 According to a study done by Michigan State University, a home with landscaping and effort put into curb appeal can increase perceived home value by 5 to 11%. The study says it all. Curb appeal will help you sell your home faster! A few things to consider to upgrade your home’s curb appeal include fresh landscaping, painting your front door, redoing your walkway, and cleaning your roof and gutters. And for the biggest, most dramatic effect, give your house a power wash and a fresh coat of paint. Find more tips on upping your curb appeal right here.

2. Update your kitchen/bathroom.

The saying is true. Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. If these rooms are outdated, it will make your whole home feel as though it needs a major overhaul. By making changes like new appliances, granite countertops, or a fresh coat of paint on your cabinets, you can potentially increase your home profits by thousands of dollars. Try to look at your kitchen and bathroom from an outside perspective and be honest with yourself about what needs to be done to sell your home for top dollar.

3. Paint your house in neutral colors.

While it may have been tempting to paint your living room your favorite shade of green or make your son’s room that bright blue shade you saw in a magazine, bold color choices don’t allows bode well when it’s time to sell. By choosing neutral paint shades like whites, grays, and beiges for your listing photos, you allow the potential buyer to envision their own designs in your home. Consider fresh neutral paint throughout your home to attract the largest amount of buyers.

4. Declutter and organize.

If you’ve lived in your home for more than a few years, chances are it is full of stuff. That’s why decluttering is one of the most important things you’ll do before selling your home. Homebuyers are always looking for storage and space when viewing properties. Empty shelves and closets will help them to feel there is space for all of their needs. Rooms without clutter will also make your house look more spacious. So take a look around your home and start moving out things that can be donated or thrown away.

5. Light it up!

Last but not least, the lighting in your home matters! If you have the budget, update light fixtures throughout your home to ensure rooms are well-lit. Make sure windows are in good condition as well. The brighter your spaces, the larger your rooms will feel, and the more inviting your home will be overall. Don’t forget to light it up!

—

As you decide which house projects to pursue, remember that you want to interest as many buyers as possible. Neutral design schemes will appeal to more people. Unsure of what steps to take before selling your home? Talk with a local realtor. Then reach out to our ProTek Painting Services team to get your house ready to list. Good luck, and happy house selling! 

The post 5 Projects You Must Tackle Before Selling Your Home appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

While for heavy-duty renovation projects we always recommend reaching out to a team of experts for help, you can definitely start the work on your own with research online. The digital age has provided so many resources to help you decide on what you want to do, how to use color and design in your home without going over budget. Here are a few of our favorite websites and tools for gathering ideas and inspiration to get you started on your next home design project!

Get inspiration:

The first step of any home renovation project should always be gathering inspiration. This will help you to accurately shape your vision, and decide your budget and what type of help you’ll need. There is a whole slew of resources online for gathering inspiration on color, design, and more! A few of our favorites? Start with our ProTek blog right here for budget-friendly tips and painting and design tricks. Then be sure to check out other popular blogs and resources like Pinterest, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, and Houzz to round out your vision.

Start Planning:

After you’ve put together your design vision, it’s time to start planning how you’ll execute it and the exact tools you’ll need to get started! For more in-depth renovation projects, it’s always good to connect with a licensed and insured painter or contractor who can help execute the work. (You can request a consultation from our team right here.) For the rest of your planning needs, try Wayfair’s 3D Room Planner, the Pantone Studio App (for iOS only), and the Magicplan app for laying out your floorplan.

Tools for the process:

You’ve gathered your inspiration and you’ve done your planning. Now it’s time to execute your renovation! You can find a host of information on painting tools on our blog right here. We also love the Sherwin Williams website which has a ton of helpful videos from staining concrete to exterior painting tips. There are also plenty of helpful apps like the Photo Measures app that can be used as a reliable tool mid-project.

—

Want to get started with your home project but need a little help? Gather ideas and make your plan, then reach out to our ProTek Painting Services Team! We have decades of experience and are licensed and insured so you are covered for your next home renovation project. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The post How To Plan Out The Perfect Home Renovation Project Online appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

So how can you ensure your deck is in the best shape to make memories for years to come? All it takes is some regular upkeep by power washing and staining your deck on a consistent schedule. Staining your deck not only makes it look great, but the right stain will also waterproof it, keep it from warping, and protect it from the elements. Ready to tackle the job yourself? Here is a homeowner’s guide to the dos and don’ts of staining your deck.

DO

1. Check the weather first.

Make sure you power wash and stain your deck on a day where it’s not too hot, and the upcoming forecast is clear of rain. Too much harsh sunlight or wet conditions can compromise your results.

2. Clear your deck before getting started.

Remove all furniture and decor. Sand down any rough spots or splinters. Protect any nearby plants, and sweep away any dust or debris, which would leave you without a smooth finish.

3. Start with a wash to avoid imperfections.

A pressure wash is the best tool for this, but a hose can also be used. After washing, allow two days of drying time before applying the stain.

4. Choose the right stain for the job.

A transparent stain will allow the grain of your wood to show through. However, they do require more upkeep to keep your deck looking great. Solid stains last longer and are more durable, but the thicker paint type texture will cover the wood itself.

5. Hire a professional if you need help!

Just because you can do a job on your own doesn’t mean you should! If you get stuck or want to ensure professional results done right the first time, don’t’ be afraid to reach out for help. You can contact our ProTek team about a quote right here.

DON’T

1. Skip treating your deck for too long.

Plan to restain your deck every 1-3 years. Power washing can be done more often. By maintaining a consistent care schedule, you’ll keep your deck in the best condition possible.

2. Go for the cheapest option.

Choose a quality stain from your local home improvement store instead of going for the lowest cost. A quality stain will consistently repel water, keep your wood in the best condition, and prevent your deck from being tarnished by the sun.

3. Forget to protect your house.

Before you begin, always prep your space! Use painters tape to avoid getting stain on your house or any other structures or fixtures that also connect to your deck.

4. Don’t skip posts, railings, cracks, stairs, etc.

Avoid patchiness in your coverage! Be sure to apply stain in any cracks, railings, stairs, etc. Small brushes will come in handy for those hard to reach spots. Be sure to use long, even strokes where possible for a uniform finish.

Don’t rush the process.

When it comes to applying stain, slow and steady produces the best results. When the job is done, allow 24-48 hours of drying time before you use the deck again.

—

So there you have it! These quick tips will get you on your way to enjoying your deck all summer long.

Ready to wash and stain your deck? Our ProTek team is now serving homes in Middle Tennessee. Reach out for a consultation!

The post Staining Your Deck: The Do’s and Don’ts appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

For spring and summer 2020, we’ve rounded up 5 essential house projects that are more than worth your time and money. Our ProTek Professional Painting team serves Middle Tennessee including Franklin, Spring Hill, Nashville, and more. Would you like a free consultation for your next project? Reach out to us today!

Refresh A Room With Paint

You had to know this would be our #1! If you’re on a tight budget or short on time, a fresh coat of paint in your home will still do wonders for your space. Go light and bright to make your home feel more spacious, or bold and daring to show off your unique style. The sky really is the limit. For some color scheme inspiration to get you started, check out some of our latest blog posts here and here.

Give Your Fence A Fresh Look

When someone mentions curb appeal, your mind probably jumps to the color of your home, the flowers in your flowerbed, or maybe even the nice wreath on your door. But one factor of curb appeal that lots of people tend to miss? The condition of your fencing! Not only do fences mark your property lines, but they can also do double duty to beautify your space. Painting, staining, or sealing your fence will be well worth the time and effort, whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a professional.

Stain Your Deck

Homeowners often tend to skip out on regular care and upkeep for their decks and patios. This can lead to dangerous decay. Don’t let your deck fade, split, or rot! Early summer is the perfect time to sand, stain, and protect your outdoor structures so that you can enjoy them safely for the year to come. Don’t skip out on this important aspect of your home’s maintenance.

Reimagine Your Home’s Exterior

Have you ever wished your house was a different shade? Could your current house exterior use a little sprucing up? This is an excellent time to tackle a larger scale project like repainting your home! Whether your house is stucco, brick, or any other material, our ProTek team would be more than happy to work with you on your vision through a free consultation.

Schedule A Pressure Wash

If the exterior of your home needs a refresh but not a full paint job, look no further than a pressure wash. Pressure washing provides a quick and easy way to remove dirt and residue from the elements, and instantly restore your home’s prime curb appeal. Pressure washers can be purchased or rented from your local home improvement store. You can also hire a local expert to help you tackle the job. (We recommend hiring help for multi-story homes.)

Focus on Landscaping and Outdoor Decor

As the weather warms up, you’ll probably spend a lot more time outdoors. So why not bring the comfort and beauty of home along with you? Choose some comfortable waterproof seating that expresses your family’s unique style. Select some plants, flowers, outdoor rugs, or even string lights to add warmth and depth to your home’s outdoor areas. Then, kick your feet up and enjoy!

So there you have it! These are just five easy ways to inject a dose of new life into your home this summer. Which of these house projects would you most like to tackle? And do you have any additional ones you would add to the list?

Are you in Middle Tennessee and need a free quote for your next home improvement project? Contact our ProTek Painting Services team!

The post Staying Home? These 5 House Projects Are Worth Your Time appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

Regardless of how you’re getting the job done, there’s a whole lot of terminology and processes that can feel overwhelming when it comes to painting and home improvement projects. There are so many different brands and types of paint, not to mention all the different tools for different surfaces, and the different types of services that each painting company you interact with might provide. So we’re breaking it down and sharing a glossary of house painting terms you’ll want to know before beginning your next paint project.

Have questions on other terms that you don’t see here? Reach out to us through our Contact form or our ProTek Facebook page! 

21 Common Painting Terms

1. Acrylic

Acrylic is a type of paint that you will find at most all hardware and home improvement stores. These paints are water-based and water-resistant. They can be used for interior and exterior jobs.

2 Adhesion

If you hear painters talk about adhesion, they’re referring to how well the dried paint stays on the surface without cracking, blistering, etc. This is probably the most important attribute when looking for great paint because you want your paint job to stand the test of time! It’s also particularly important when researching exterior paints because of the weather and changing seasons.

3. Basecoat

You’ve probably heard this one before. Your basement will be the highly pigmented color on your paint job. Basecoats just about always require a finishing coat of clear protection/gloss to ensure that your paint job lasts.

4. Blistering

Have you ever had bubbles or moisture form in your finished paint job? This can be extremely frustrating, and it usually means your surface was not clean before applying paint. This can also be caused when you paint over a previous coat before it finishes drying. Remember – be patient between coats!

5. Brush Types

There are so many types of paint brushes out there, we thought we’d quickly breakdown a few of the most common for you.

a. Natural-bristle brushes – These are made with animal hair and are great for paints with an oil base finish. The tips on these brushes of these brushes hold a lot of paint and help you have a smooth paint release and finish.

b. Nylon/polyester blend brushes – These common brushes are easy to clean and work great with latex paints. If you’re looking for a high-quality paint finish, get yourself a great nylon/polyester brush. Don’t be afraid to invest a few bucks on it! With proper care, they can handle quite a few projects and last long term.

c. Polyester brushes – These also work best for latex paints. They hold their shape and will help you to apply paint smoothly and evenly.

6. Caulking

You may have heard of caulking in terms of plumbing, but it’s an important part of your paint projects too! Caulking is when you waterproof the gaps around or between building materials using a flexible filler.

7. Eggshell

Have you seen eggshell paints on the shelf at your local home improvement store? Eggshell paints have a finish with very low shine, but they’re much more durable than flat or matte finish paints. This makes them great for interior walls in your home or office building.

8. Elasticity

Elasticity is all about how much your paint can expand and contract with showing any damage or changes to its appearance. The elasticity of your paint plays a huge part in its durability when it comes to things like indoor and outdoor temperature changes.

9. Enamel

Enamel paint produces a smooth and hard finish. While you don’t want to use this everywhere, enamel paint is great for trim, windows, and doors.

10. Exterior paint

Exterior paints are specifically created for outdoor usage and standing up to the elements. For most brands and colors, these are self-priming. A good one will all mention that it’s UV and weather-resistant.

11. Flat paint

Notice the word “flat” on your paint can? Although these paints are typically the most affordable, flat means that it has no gloss finish. Flat paints typically scuff or get dirty easily and may lack washability as well. For most home paint jobs, these are to be avoided.

12. Gloss

You’ll notice varying levels of gloss mentioned on different paints throughout your hardware store. Whether it’s a low gloss, semi-gloss or high gloss, this simply refers to the amount of light that a paint reflects.

13. Lead-based paint

Lead-based paints can be a major health hazard. If you’re living in an older home, it may contain paint with a high level of lead. To work with or remove this type of paint, you’ll need the help of a specialist. If you’re in the Middle Tennessee/Nashville area, feel free to reach out to our ProTek team!

14. Masking

Masking is an important part of your painting process. This is when you use tape or other coverings to prevent paint from ending up on your floors, windows, light fixtures, etc. Always be sure to prep your space with masking!

15. Matte paint

Similar to flat paints, matte paint is flat and void of shine. These are most often used for things like painting ceilings.

16. Nap

We’re not referring to a mid-day snooze. Nap refers to the length of the fibers on your paint roller. Short nap rollers work best for gloss finishes; medium naps are for lower sheen or matte paints, and long naps should be used for textured surfaces.

17. Pressure Washing

Before painting an exterior surface it’s important to do a cleaning to ensure that your paint sticks well. This is where pressure washing comes in. Using high pressure and hot water equipment and cleaners, it’s the most optimal way to prepare your outdoor surfaces for a fresh coat. You can find out more about our pressure washing services right here.

18. Rollers

When buying supplies for your paint job, you’ll find many options when it comes to paint rollers. But many of the ones on the shelf won’t be worth your time. Polyester rollers, for instance, don’t hold paint well and you’ll spent a good amount of time reloading them. Although these come at a low price, we don’t recommend them. Instead, look for a good quality blend or lambskin cover. Both hold more paint and are less likely to leave marks in your paint.

19. Satin

When you see paint that mentions a smooth finish with some gloss, it’s most likely a satin paint. These can be a great choice for interior paint projects because they have an increased washability over flat, matte or eggshell paints.

20. Sealer

A paint sealer is a special type of paint used to prevent interactions between coats. They can also cover things like knots in your paint surface to ensure they don’t show through your finished coat. They’re useful on new plaster and drywall, bare wood, and surfaces like brick and concrete.

—

Do you have questions about other paint terms we haven’t mentioned here? Reach out to our team!

The post 20 House Painting Terms You Need To Know appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.