Fundamentals

There are a few fundamentals to keep in mind if you’re planning a painting project.  Proper and appropriate surface preparation is a requirement. This is followed by appropriate application of the proper finish material.

Interior painted wood surfaces in good condition may require only sanding or washing before repainting. Interior wood trim, especially surfaces adjacent to flooring materials which are maintained by waxing, require removal of all traces of wax. Waxes can be removed by washing with a solvent or a strong detergent solution in water.

Surfaces previously coated with gloss or semi-gloss enamels:

These surfaces must be dulled or roughened up in order to allow proper adhesion of the succeeding coats of material. This can be accomplished by washing with a strong detergent solution, sanding, or wiping the surface with a chemical de-glosser. Interior enamels that are brittle and cracking or flaking should be removed, and the exposed surface should be treated as bare wood and primed accordingly before applying finish material.

When painting over stains or varnishes, extra care must be taken to ensure proper adhesion. An aggressively bonding primer/sealer can be applied only after proper sanding and inspection of the surfaces.

Masonry and Concrete Substrates

Many building are constructed using some form of concrete, stucco or brick. These materials are used primarily because they provide additional strength, but sometimes are utilized as design elements.

Many materials and techniques are used in order to protect and beautify these substrates. The surface preparation and application procedures are essentially the same for interior or exterior masonry surfaces. All new masonry surfaces should be allowed to dry or age sufficiently before paint is applied. This cure time will vary depending on atmospheric conditions during the drying period and whether the substrate is above or below grade level (in a basement).

All masonry surfaces should be free of dirt, grease, or oil before painting. Generally, a thorough cleaning with a detergent solution followed by flushing with clear water will remove these surface contaminates. Poured or precast concrete might have an oily release agent on the surface which will need to be removed by solvent or detergent washing. Any loose or powdery masonry should be wire brushed or scraped in order to get to a firm surface for material application. The surface needs to be thoroughly dry before application of painting materials.

I’ll go into some other considerations for proper masonry painting in the near future.

Surface preparation is essential for a beautiful, long lasting result!

I’ve gotta get going, more later.

John Edwards