Wall, Ceiling And Structural Painting: Four Keys To Success
|
|
Is some structural, ceiling or wall painting in your future? Would you like these projects to turn out successfully -- or just like all your other past painting attempts? In this brief article I would like to outline what I call the "Four Keys to Painting Success."
The first key is: have a PLAN. For example, how much painting do you have to do? How much available time do you have to do it? Don't try to do too much -- and don't overestimate your abilities. For example, most homeowners make quite a mess when they paint -- this only leads to frustration and a desire to get the job done with as quick as possible. If you are a really messy painter, purchase a painting system like the Paint Stick -- it is designed specifically to help you paint large surface areas quickly and neatly. Again, make a PLAN before you BEGIN.
The second key is this: invest in the right TOOLS. Professional painters use many different types of labor saving devices -- have you ever watched them while they work? They would be lost without their Graco paint sprayer. Now while I don't think you should spend a lot of money on an expensive airless paint sprayer, you could nevertheless purchase an inexpensive Wagner paint sprayer instead -- many of them are designed for smaller jobs, have no complicated tubes or motors, and can be held in one hand. The use of a paint sprayer will not only save you a lot of time, it will speed the whole job considerably -- that's why the pros use them.
The third key is: select the proper type of PAINT. For example, don't try to use latex paint for painting stainless steel surfaces -- use specially-formulated stainless steel paint instead. If you need to cover over some scratches on your automobile, make sure to buy the proper brand and color of auto touch up paint. If you have to paint large areas, don't buy a dozen small cans of Krylon spray paint -- buy a larger quantity instead. If you need to paint other special surfaces -- such as concrete steps or basement floors, don't try and purchase something cheap and "make it work" -- purchase the proper type of concrete floor paint or epoxy floor paint and you will get the right results. A lot of time is wasted by people who do not have the proper tools or the proper paint, so don't make that mistake.
Finally, if you want your painting project to be a success, you will need PATIENCE. Please, take your time and do the job right -- if you try and rush, you will invariably make a mess and the results will be terrible. If time is short, don't rush -- stop. Pick up and finish your project when you have time to work at a comfortable pace. The best housepainter I ever saw was a man who live next door to my uncle -- it took him forever to paint, he moved that slow -- but the results were fantastic, and he never made a mess -- NEVER.
So there you have it -- have a PLAN -- invest in the proper painting TOOLS -- make sure you select the right type of PAINT for your project -- and be PATIENT with yourself as you paint.
|
