Now that we’re into sprucing up for spring, here’s a short primer on paint primer and products.
Color-If selling your home, stick to neutrals. If just freshening, paint whatever appeals to you. Always apply good sized paint samples on different walls in the same room and critique at different times of the day as natural and artificial light will affect the hue.
Quantity-Approximately one gallon covers 350 square feet. The color you are painting over will determine coverage. Prepare dark walls with a tinted primer.
Type-Latex paints are water-based with acrylic binders and do not contain any latex. Those with 100% acrylic binders are preferred to vinyl acrylic for better durability and easy to work with, easy to clean up. Eco-friendly paints are low or no-VOC (volatile organic compounds) products and are better for your lungs and the ozone. They are as durable and washable as regular latex paints.
Primers-The quality of most paints today means that prepping with primer is often unnecessary. The finished product depends on the preparation so be sure walls are clean and smooth for best results. Paint will soak into the surface of an unprimed drywall or wood. Metal, tile and glass, as well as stained surfaces should be primed.
Finishes
- Matte or flat is traditionally used on ceilings because of non-reflective quality. It conceals surface imperfections, is durable and good for low-traffic areas.
- Eggshell is scrubbable and smooth with a light sheen. It’s a good choice for most rooms.
- Satin is more scrubbable with a subtly glossy finish. A good choice for high-traffic and humid areas.
- Semi-Gloss is used on trim, woodwork, children’s rooms and bathrooms. It stands up to moisture and daily usage.
- High gloss is a good choice for moldings, trim, cabinets and doors. It is easy to wash and offers a shiny finish.
Keep in mind you should have a prepped and primed surface for using Casart wallcoverings and this starts with a quality paint primer.
– Lorre Lei
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