How to Paint a Kitchen

How to Paint a Kitchen

If your kitchen is looking a little drab and dated, you may be thinking about remodeling. But even a partial kitchen remodel is expensive – not to mention disruptive. Fortunately, there is a relatively quick and easy way to update the heart of your home at modest expense! A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in giving your kitchen a new look that makes it more bright, inviting and even trendy – if that’s your style!

One advantage of painting your kitchen is that unlike other rooms, the paintable areas are smaller. Compared to a living room, bedroom or hallway, a kitchen may have only one uninterrupted wall. Most of the kitchen space is covered with cabinets, backsplashes, a sink and appliances. However, the limited paintable areas do require more prep work and cleaning to achieve the desired smooth, professional-looking result.

You may notice that we’re leaving cabinets out of this blog post. Painting kitchen cabinets involves a completely different skill set, equipment and time requirements. Our blog post – “Should You Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets Yourself or Hire a Pro?” – covers this project in detail. Spoiler alert: We strongly recommend hiring a pro! As you’ll learn in the blog post, painting cabinets is much more complex than most homeowners assume, and it’s too easy to end up with cabinet doors that show drips and brush marks – or begin to blister and peel a few months later due to poor prep work.

Whether you decide to tackle painting the kitchen yourself or call a professional painter, this project gives you the opportunity to get creative and bring out a new side to your kitchen’s personality! That all starts with the paint color you choose! Before you get to the fun part, first determine the square footage of the walls that you need to paint. This will give you an idea of the quantity of paint that you need to buy.

Choosing the Right Color and Type of Paint for Your Kitchen

Your kitchen should look and feel good to make you want to cook. Moreover, your kitchen space gets a lot of attention, which is why it is important to choose your paint color wisely.

Whether you select a modern neutral, a nature-inspired color or a bright, cheerful color, your kitchen space should reflect your love of cooking, and be an inviting place where family and friends gather. The best kitchen paint colors will blend effortlessly with your kitchen flooring and cabinets. If you want a welcoming kitchen feel, opt for yellows or warm reds. However, if you want a breezy and sleek kitchen look, opt for neutrals and whites. Neutrals can work with other decor elements of your home well and give a more airy feel. HGTV offers great color ideas for kitchens in its blog post, which we invite you to read!

Choosing the right type of paint is more important when it comes to your kitchen space. Always opt for sheen or gloss-finish paint, as they are easy to clean and long-lasting. Choose the gradations of gloss wisely, as complete matte won’t be ideal for a kitchen. Wall areas without a backsplash can be stained by red sauce that bubbles up in the pot while cooking – as well as coated by grease and oil. Choose something in the middle – such as semi-gloss, sheens, or satin. Often people opt for high-glossy and lacquer finishes, as these are easy to clean and offer great kitchen visuals. But be careful. According to HGTV, “Glossier finishes tend to highlight imperfections in the wall, so this isn’t the best option if your walls have a few dents and dings.

Prepping the Kitchen

While the kitchen can be more difficult to paint than open spaces with fewer cabinets/obstacles to work around, in reality, it is easy to paint if done right. If you’re painting your kitchen walls as part of a complete kitchen remodeling project, Dengarden recommends painting the ceiling and walls before your countertops and cabinets are installed. After installation, you can go back and touch-up the walls where needed. Sequencing the work that way reduces the amount of prep work and cutting-in.

Assuming that painting is the only project that will be done, however, your focus will be on preparing the kitchen walls to ensure a clean, even surface. Home improvement expert Lee Wallender provides the following instructions in his article for The Spruce:

“Kitchens can build up grease in certain areas, so it’s best to thoroughly clean the walls with a degreaser prior to priming. Assume that areas above and around the stove, oven, and counters need to be cleaned with warm water and TSP (trisodium phosphate). Door trim usually can benefit from the TSP cleaning, too. Remove dust and cobwebs from the tops of baseboards and other trim with a vacuum and a damp cloth or tack cloth.”

If the walls have gloss paint, Dengarden advises mixing a stronger solution of TSP to dull glossy walls and improve adhesion of the new paint. Scrub the walls with a sponge, then rise with clean water. Mildew stains and mold can be eliminated with TSP, vinegar or bleach diluted with water. Do not mix vinegar with bleach. If your walls do have such stains, be sure the source of the mildew/mold has been eliminated, as both are serious health issues and will recur if the damage behind the wall that caused them isn’t repaired. Whether or not you need to remove mildew or mold, allow the walls to dry thoroughly before painting.

You may or may not choose to paint the ceiling. If the ceiling has a water stain from a roof or pipe leak, confirm that the source of the leak has been repaired before proceeding. Apply a stain-blocking primer, but don’t use latex, as it won’t cover water stains.

If necessary, patch and/or sand the walls. Nail pops and nail holes can be easily repaired using a good patching compound. Sand the walls using a drywall sanding sponge to eliminate imperfections and smooth the surface to enable the new paint to adhere better. If the kitchen walls are too glossy, sand them and use a bonding primer.

Apply painter’s tape to the trim and all other areas that will not be painted. Press firmly on the tape with your fingers to prevent bleed-through. Finally, cover your cabinets and countertops with 99-inch masking film. The plastic is long enough to cover most cabinets almost all the way to the floor. Cover the floor with canvas drop cloths, or a leak-proof floor protector.

Use the Right Technique When Painting Your Kitchen

Applying paint properly makes the difference between a professional-looking job and an amateur effort that you’ll be unhappy looking at for years to come (and that won’t impress potential buyers if you’re planning to sell your house soon). Our blog post – “Common Interior Painting Mistakes to Avoid” – provides a comprehensive list of major don’ts that are applicable to kitchen painting.  Here is a guide to correct kitchen painting technique:

Paint the ceiling first – If your painting project includes the ceiling, paint it first, as any drips will be covered when you paint the walls. Use an extension pole. The best extension pole length to use for painting a kitchen ceiling is one that extends eight feet. An eight-foot painting pole works great for rolling parts of the ceiling above cabinets and between can lights. The longer length lets you make wider roller passes with more reach and more control.

Apply primer, if needed – If a surface has already been painted and the paint is in good, clean condition, it will most likely not require priming. Unpainted drywall, bare wood, and painted surfaces in poor condition should be primed. Apply the primer with the roller on large areas and with the brush on areas too small to accommodate the width of the roller. Use a roller on the large expanses of wall and a brush for the little strips, such as between the backsplash and the cabinets.

Use a paint roller on large areas – Determine which areas are large enough to accommodate the roller. Pour a small amount of paint in the tray, soak the roller cover, then thoroughly roll out the excess. Roll the large spaces of the wall in a W-pattern, covering sections of about 4 feet by 4 feet. Bring the roller to about an inch or two of the painter’s tape.

Apply by brush where needed – Let the paint dry for about two hours. Dip the paintbrush in the paint and manually paint the areas that the roller could not reach. Avoid drips by minimally applying the paint and by re-brushing. Areas that were painted more than a few minutes before will likely already be filming over. Confine re-brushing to areas that were only recently painted.

Apply additional coats if necessary – Paint colors deepen and reach their full potential by being applied in two or even three coats. Allow the paint to dry for at least a couple of hours, then re-roll and re-brush the paint one more time.

Should You DIY or Call a Professional to Paint Your Kitchen?

This, of course, is a question only you can answer! To help you decide, Wallender offers this following wise advice:

“Painting a kitchen should be within the skill set of most DIYers, especially given the smaller scale when compared to other parts of the home. But you may want to have a paint contractor paint your kitchen if it is large, has a complex layout, or high ceilings. A professional painter can get to the out-of-the-way areas, plus they can address the often unusual geometry found in many kitchen spaces.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves – except to add that a professional will have the right experience, skill, equipment and supplies to make sure the job is done correctly and safely!  The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Facts You Need To Know About Roof Cleaning

Facts You Need To Know About Roof Cleaning

If you’re a Florida native or long-time resident, you know that the Sunshine State’s climate makes unique demands upon exterior home maintenance. Add to the fact that Central Florida’s subtropical climate is different from South Florida’s true tropical climate, as well as from North Florida’s more temperate climate, which brings the region colder winter temperatures. And if you are among the many new residents we’ve welcomed, you may be unfamiliar with how to keep your property at its best.

To be fair, however, even those who think they know all about Central Florida living may not know as much as they assume, so let’s take it from the top – your home’s roof, that is! Keeping it clean is the first line of defense against the roofing material breaking down, thereby shortening the life of your roof. No roofing material is immune to damage allowed to progress because of lack of cleaning as needed, so our roof cleaning professionals at The Paint Manager bring you the following facts.

Roof Stains Aren’t Dirt

Trails of dark stains running down your roof aren’t dirt – they’re algae – Gloeocapsa magma, to be exact. Also known as blue green algae, it protects itself from the sun’s ultraviolet rays by producing a dark pigmented sheath. As our blog post – “Why Cleaning Your Roof is Important” – notes, the algae discoloration typically begins as small spots, then quickly transforms into streaks on the roof plane. By the time the algae is visible, it likely has been present for several months or longer.

Algae is a problem because it retains moisture. According to Long Home Products, “This means they don’t allow the shingles to dry out, which quickly causes deterioration in your shingles, and can eventually cause rot, which leaves the door wide open to mold and mildew growth.” Florida’s long rainy season that produces almost daily afternoon thunderstorms June through early September sets up the ideal conditions for this issue.

Then, there’s moss. This is a non-vascular plant that lacks a root system, obtaining water through its leaves. Moss must therefore have a moist environment to survive. It tends to grow on north-facing roof planes that receive less direct sunlight and stay damp longer than south- facing planes. The moss spores get down between the shingles or other roofing materials. They can harm the structural integrity of your roof long before you notice the moss growing if you are just looking at your roof from the ground. Overhanging tree branches provide additional shade and drop debris on the roof, which further holds in moisture and acts as a food source for moss.

Types of Roofing Materials and the Types of Algae/Moss Growth They Attract

As mentioned earlier, every type of roofing material used in Florida is susceptible to algae, moss, mold and mildew taking hold. Here is a look at each:

Asphalt shingle – This is the most common roofing material in Central Florida. It provides a good environment for blue green algae because of its composition, which includes calcium-based limestone. “Unfortunately, over the years the manufacturing process has changed,” writes Best Roofing Shingles. “There is more calcium based limestone and fillers in roof systems today. Algae and moss … feed on these calcium based additives. Whenever you see those black streaks growing on your roof it’s typically algae and moss that you are seeing.”

Long-term damage to asphalt shingle roofs includes the following:

  • Wood rot and leaks from constant dampness.
  • Losing granules on shingles.
  • Lifting up the edges of shingles as algae and moss grow.
  • Water damage in your home. Moss attracts birds that use it for nesting material. Their repeated pecking on shingles to remove it eventually creates holes, causing leaks.

 

Barrel tile – This roof style is popular for Mediterranean style homes. Tiles can be made of concrete or clay. According to City Roofing and Remodeling, concrete is an energy efficient roof material, but is heavy. Clay tiles can last longer than concrete under normal weather conditions. Algae doesn’t grow directly on the tiles, but in between the tiles – from which it then spreads to cover various surfaces of the roof. It is the build-up of dust, dirt and other materials coupled with exposure to moisture and sunlight that allow the spores of algae and mold to sprout and grow.

Long-term damage to barrel tile roofs includes the following:

  • Roof leaks – Algae and mold retain moisture, which can lead to roof leaks by creating gaps/holes in your roof which, over time, can cause your roof to rot. According to ABC Roofing Corp., “Where there is algae and mold, it is most likely that Lichen, among other organisms, is present. Which over time can cause separation of roof materials and eventually roof leaks.”
  • Can shorten the useful life of tiles – Algae growth causes tiles to absorb heat unevenly, which means they don’t last as long as they would otherwise. Moreover, if the roof doesn’t absorb heat evenly, it can increase the indoor temperature – thereby making your air conditioner run longer and work harder, in turn potentially also shortening its useful life.

 

Metal – This type of roof is becoming increasingly popular in Central Florida as a low-maintenance alternative to shingle. However, algae can grow due to the inevitable accumulation of dust and dirt. As with other roofing materials, algae growth may eventually result in mold and lichen.

In addition, metal roofs are coated with a paint system. If not cleaned and maintained, the paint system’s resin begins to break down and degrade from prolonged exposure to sunlight, UV rays and pollutants. According to Sheffield Metals International, the resin loses its adhesion to the surface, turning white – a process called chalking. As most metal roofing paint warranties don’t cover excessive chalking in the presence of pollutants, it’s important to regularly clean your roof.

Why Roof Cleaning Isn’t a DIY Job

Now that you know why cleaning your roof is essential to maintaining its integrity, here is why it’s a job better left to the professionals. While some of our readers may not even consider tackling this job, others might believe they can save money by taking the DIY approach. As we at The Paint Manager always warn, YouTube videos often make the task look easier than it is. You don’t want to start this project without the right equipment, cleaning products, protective gear, experience and physical ability. Pressure washing can be dangerous for the inexperienced, and even low-powered machines can be a risk to your life and property.

If you’re thinking about cleaning your roof yourself, think about the following:

  • Rental pressure washing equipment is messy and heavy. You may also need to hire a truck to transport it to your home.
  • Rental pressure washing equipment may malfunction due to improper maintenance.
  • Standard high-pressure washers can damage asphalt shingles and crack barrel tiles; pressure washing pros have special equipment that doesn’t harm roofing material.
  • Undiluted or incorrectly mixed cleaning chemicals can burn your skin, irritate your eyes and respiratory tract, and harm landscaping and pets.
  • You could fall off the roof. When you combine a steep roof with water and slippery cleaning agents, you have a recipe for disaster. 
  • Professional roof cleaners will provide you with longer-lasting and higher-quality results, as they use commercial-grade equipment and have years of experience.
  • Professional roof cleaners will complete the job within a few hours, whereas you may end up taking days.
  • Professional roof cleaners will make sure to protect your plants from detergent run-off.
  • Professional roof cleaners are insured, licensed and guarantee their work.

 

Our team at The Paint Manager has over 20 years of experience in cleaning every type of roofing material for both residential and commercial properties to provide the best possible results. Visit our website to learn about the many other services we provide – including quality residential and commercial painting services, popcorn ceiling removal and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

How to Paint a Front Door

How to Paint a Front Door

The first thing that people notice about your home is the front door. Make your entry door the star of your home’s exterior with the right color and type of paint. You can also add a pop of color to your front door to make it more welcoming while showing off your design skills. But how do you choose a front door color that is lively yet not too over the top? The Paint Manager is here with this guide to help you choose – and apply – the right color for your front door!

Choose the Right Type of Paint and Paint Color for Your Door

Your front door forms the first impression of your home in people’s minds, and affects how they feel about your house. Whether you plan on staying in your home or selling it, a front door that stands out for the right reasons adds a great deal to its curb appeal. Moreover, your front door has to withstand the elements every day, so you want the right type of paint to avoid peeling and fading. For example, according to Joe Cruz of Family Handyman, fiberglass doors need acrylic, polyurethane or epoxy paints that won’t weaken the integrity of fiberglass.

For doors made of other materials, Cruz recommends the following:

Semi-gloss acrylic latex paint This is one of the overall best types of paint for your front door. Many homeowners like it for its durability, color compatibility and easy clean-up. It’s great for steel, wood and fiberglass doors.

Semi-gloss latex enamel exterior paint and primer in one This eliminates the need for a primer coat. It works well for any type of door.

High-gloss oil-based exterior paint This paint is highly dynamic and resistant to cracking and chipping. It is ideal for wood or steel doors, but won’t work well with fiberglass doors. Also, unless your front door is extremely high-quality, a high-gloss finish will bring out its blemishes.

Water-based latex paint – This dries faster than oil-based paints. However, oil-based paints will prove to be more durable in the long run. Water-based latex paints are generally easy to work with and clean up quickly with water. Moreover, water-based latex paints can be found in no-VOC or low-VOC form, making them more eco-friendly.

According to HGTV, The most important thing to note is whether you have a latex- or oil-based paint. This is especially important for touch-ups, as you never want to paint oil over latex paint or vice versa. The type of primer you use also needs to match the type of paint you use (latex or oil-based).

Now that you know which type of paint to apply to which type of front door, let’s get down to choosing the right paint color!

The color of your front door should portray your unique personality and distinct style. Also, as colors have the ability to influence our mood, it is essential to choose a proper color for your front door. Your entry door color can communicate a subconscious message to your guests and create a welcoming, positive emotional reaction.

Quality Overhead Door offers this list of the most popular front door colors, and the psychology of each:

  • Red: A bold red entry door will help a home stand out. As a bonus, red is regarded as a lucky color in some cultures.
  • White: A white front door is ideal for traditional homes, and gives people an impression of an organized, well-maintained house.
  • Blue: This is one of the most calming options when it comes to painting your front door. The color conveys tranquility and peace. It also goes well with various colors.
  • Green: A harmonious hue, green is a key color found in nature. A green front door indicates a peaceful home with a friendly owner, and signifies a peaceful, welcoming environment.
  • Yellow: The color of sunshine, yellow denotes optimism and cheerfulness. A yellow-colored front door will attract the attention of your visitors immediately.
  • Purple: A pop of color can brighten up your mood as well as that of your visitors. A purple front door will signify a free spirit, and make your visitors smile every time they enter your house.
  • Black: As a traditional, elegant door color, a black front door shows passersby that the homeowner has refined taste. This dark shade suggests the interior of the home is equally sophisticated.

Tips for choosing the right color for your door:

  • Look at the outdoor environment of your home to draw some inspiration. The natural lighting, the color of the porch area, and the surroundings can help you decide the color of the front door.
  • Take your exterior design and home’s structure into account.
  • Consider the classics to never go wrong with your front door color selection. 
  • Make a monochromatic color scheme your best friend if you have a smaller home, as it will visually expand your home and make it appear larger than it really is.
  • Use the color wheel for reference. Better Homes & Gardens provides a helpful guide to using the color wheel to show which hues go together.
  • Introduce an elegant accent color throughout the door trim to pull together the rest of the exterior colors.

To help in the selection process, you can tape paint chips to your front door to understand how the color will look in natural light during different times of the day, and the overall design of your home’s exterior. If you have narrowed it down to two or three color choices, you may also purchase small samples of paint to perform a larger color swatch. Again, check out the color swatches that you have done at different times of the day to understand how the color looks when the light brightens or dims.

With your color selected, be sure you also choose the right time to paint! In Florida, this can be tricky, as there is actually a rather narrow window for exterior painting projects. Our blog post – “When is the Best Time of the Year to Have My House Painted?” – covers the challenges of exterior house painting in detail. The basic parameters are October through late March. These months are relatively dry, and Central Florida doesn’t have sustained periods of frigid winter temperatures. Pollen season starts in spring, depositing a thick, yellow layer that adheres to every stationary object – including houses. Hurricane season then quickly follows, running from June 1 through November 30. Summer also brings daily afternoon thunderstorms, giving house exteriors little chance to dry completely to be successfully painted.

Assuming you’re planning to do it yourself – and you’re confident you won’t get rained out or covered in pollen during the project – here are the steps to follow.

How to Prep the Front Door

The key to a long-lasting, attractive front door paint job is to properly prep the door. Painting over dirt, dust, cracks, holes, or peeling paint will significantly reduce the lifespan of the paint job.

There are two options for prepping and painting a front door: remove the door and place it on sawhorses or a folding table; or paint it in place. Whichever option you choose, Family Handyman provides the following preparation steps:

  • Scrape any loose or chipping paint using a paint scraper or putty knife.
  • Fill any dings or scratches with an all-purpose plastic wood filler.
  • Sand the entire door with 120-grit sandpaper, smoothing over any imperfections and flaws.
  • Vacuum or blow off all the dust and debris that may have collected. Wipe the entire door with a clean damp cloth.
  • Use painter’s tape to mask off any glass or edges of the door you don’t want paint on.

Front Door Painting Techniques

Start your front door painting by applying the primer, making sure to cover the entire door. You can use a roller to distribute the primer evenly. You may need to apply a second coat of primer to the areas where the initial primer application was thin.

Once the primer dries, use a paintbrush to cover up any details or trim work on the door. Next, finally, start painting the door. You can use a paintbrush, foam roller, or a low-nap roller for this.

If you want a nice hand-painted look, opt for a paintbrush. You can also use a roller first and then use a paintbrush while doing the final coat to attain this look. Make sure that the door is completely dry before you start reattaching the hardware (if you have removed it).

Taking the DIY approach to painting your front door can be successful if you have a good skill level and experience in home improvement projects. As you’ve learned, preparation, patience and a steady hand are essential to achieving a great result! Since your entry door is so important to making a good first impression, you want a professional-quality job.

If you’re not confident in your DIY skills – or would rather leave it to the pros – call The Paint Manager! We’ve proudly served Central Florida since 2000 with quality residential and commercial painting services. Our experienced team will use the right primer and paint for your door, seamlessly applied to make the perfect statement for your home!

Visit our website to learn about many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Nine Ways You Can Help Your House Stand Out in a Competitive Market

Nine Ways You Can Help Your House Stand Out in a Competitive Market

Whether you’re considering selling your home, or have already made the decision, potential buyers will be examining it with critical eyes as soon as the For Sale sign goes up. In today’s competitive market, you need to give your house every possible advantage to help it stand out in a good way. Assuming that no major repairs are necessary, there are some projects that can improve curb appeal and create an updated, more inviting look to the interior. Getting more visual bang for your buck can help your house sell faster – and perhaps even above list price, although, of course, we can’t guarantee that!

Also keep in mind that the longer a house stays on the market, the more control potential buyers will have over you regarding negotiations – which, of course, is likely to drive the price downward. Improve your chance for a quick sale and more money on closing day with the following nine home improvement and maintenance projects!

  1. Clean the Roof

Even a roof in good condition can look off-putting if it’s streaked with algae stains. In addition to being unattractive, potential buyers may see it as a sign that the homeowner (you) hasn’t kept up with basic maintenance – and start wondering what else might have been neglected!

As Roof Revivers points out, roof algae is not harmful or dangerous in itself, but after a period of time, the algae can cause the protective UV granules that cover roofing shingles to begin to come off, eventually drying them out. In addition, fungus can combine with algae already present on your roof and form into lichen. This lichen feeds off both the algae and the shingle filler. Unlike algae, lichen can develop roots, which makes it harder to remove than algae alone.

Since you never get a second chance to make a first impression, and the roof is very conspicuous, hire a professional roof cleaning service to ensure the job is done using the right equipment and cleaning products. This will not only produce the best result, but will protect your roof from damage that improper cleaning products and techniques can cause.

  1. Pressure Wash the Walkways, Driveways, etc.

Walkways, driveways, patios and decks become dirty over time. Built-up grime, mildew and bird droppings create a grungy appearance that detracts from the beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces – and can pose a health hazard, as well. You may not notice it anymore, but potential buyers will!

As our blog post – “Why You (or a Pro) Should Pressure Wash Your House” – notes, “Pressure washing is one of those jobs that inexperienced, yet physically sturdy people often think they can take on themselves and save money. Of course, only you can judge your own capability to handle the equipment. Yet just because you may be able to wield the wand with ease, keep in mind that it can be hazardous if you aren’t familiar with how to work a pressure washer.”

If you take the DIY route, clear the work area of loose objects, read and follow all safety instructions on the equipment, and wear work goggles and closed-toe shoes. However, if you are not experienced, or able to comfortably and safely use the equipment, hire a professional pressure washing service to make your outdoor areas clean and bright!

  1. Trim Trees and Plants

The first thing that visitors will notice is your home’s exterior. How do your trees, shrubs and lawn look? Before putting your house on the market, make sure that all trees and plants are trimmed, and that there is no debris in the lawn area. Add about two inches of bark mulch around trees and shrubs – as well as along flower beds – to freshen up your landscape’s appearance even more!

Plus, a small investment in colorful containers – with colorful container plants in them – placed on either side of the front door or along porch steps – as well as the driveway or garage door – will pay off as increased curb appeal.

Basically, your property should be neat, clean and inviting, giving prospective buyers the impression that not much yard work will be required – rather than an unruly wilderness they’ll have to tame themselves.

  1. Paint the Front Door

Change the character of your house by giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. Year after year, front doors go neglected, looking worn out and tired. An aesthetically pleasing front door will have potential home buyers anticipating what’s behind it!

Better Homes and Gardens recommends choosing a bright color that will set off your home’s primary paint color and draw attention to the entrance. However, be sure the door color complements – not clashes – with it. Also, check your choice with your community’s HOA, if applicable, for approval before painting.

  1. Remove Outdated or Dingy Wallpaper

Wallpaper adds unique design and color to the walls of your home, but is it something that appeals to every homeowner? Well, no. Today’s homeowners want their homes to be clean and welcoming, and outdated wallpaper can make your home look aged, dirty and cluttered.

There are trends in wallpaper, just as there are in paint colors. The problem is, wallpaper that’s seen its day can’t be painted over. Also, some patterns are too specific – such as lighthouses for a boy’s bedroom – to succesfully carry over to how a new owner will use the room. Not all buyers will share the same liking to your choice of wallpaper, and they may pass up yours. Moreover, removing dingy or outdated wallpaper will allow your home to look more neutral and welcoming – which will boost its marketability!

While there are those who claim that wallpaper removal is a DIY job, it really isn’t for most people. Our blog post – “Why You Should Hire a Pro to Remove Wallpaper” – covers the steps and labor involved in removing wallpaper without damaging the drywall underneath. We recommend reading the post in its entirety, then decide.

  1. Remove Popcorn Texturing From Ceilings

Popular in residential construction from the 1960s through ‘70s, “popcorn ceilings” are indisputably the most loathed interior feature among contemporary homebuyers. If you’ve lived in your home-sweet-home for many years and don’t know why it’s a problem, you probably don’t watch homebuying shows on cable TV. Yes, the situations in these programs are dramatized, but the distaste expressed by prospective buyers who look up and see popcorn textured ceilings in the house they’re touring is real. They’re a proven deal-breaker, and if you want your house to sell instead of sit on the market waiting for that special person who doesn’t mind, replace them with a smooth surface.

Our blog post – “Should You Replace Your Home’s Popcorn Ceilings With a Smooth Surface?” – covers the negative qualities of popcorn texturing in detail. In addition to being hard to clean and out of style, texturing applied throughout most of its era contains asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral. It was the material of choice for popcorn ceilings until the substance was banned as a health hazard in 1978. Even so, popcorn ceilings installed as late as the mid-’80s could contain asbestos, and, when disturbed, disperse microscopic fibrils known to cause lung-scarring illnesses and even lung cancer if inhaled. A popcorn ceiling that contains asbestos doesn’t pose a hazard as long as the ceiling isn’t disturbed. However, many people don’t want such a dangerous substance in their home, and aren’t willing to take the risk.

 To determine if your popcorn ceiling has asbestos, call an EPA-certified remediation company to take a sample. Should the report come back positive, do not attempt to remove it yourself. This is not a DIY project. Risking your life – and the lives of your family members – isn’t worth saving the expense of professional remediation. Should the report come back negative, DIY removal is possible – although it may not be practical when dealing with popcorn removal for several rooms. And remember – once the popcorn texture is removed, the ceilings will need to be sanded, followed by application of new texture, then primed and painted.

  1. Remove Heavy Curtains

For some people, a home isn’t perfect without certain finishing touches like window treatments. However, the heavy, elaborate curtains considered the height of fashion from the ‘60s through the ‘80s are now out of style, and call up a “grandma’s house” vibe. We know that prospective buyers should overlook outdated curtains and focus instead on your home’s structural features, but people tend to be easily distracted by what they see in front of them.

Removing these visual distractions has many advantages. Heavy curtains block natural light from entering your home, making rooms look gloomy. Natural light can do wonders for your home when you are trying to sell, as it creates a welcoming, warm and bright environment that sets the mood immediately!

Moreover, if you have a small space, heavy curtains can overwhelm the area. Removing them will make your space look bigger and the focus will be more on your rooms. Also, without curtains, your room will create a blank canvas that will allow your prospects to imagine themselves living in that space!

Of course, you still need privacy while your house is on the market. In her article for The Spruce, interior design expert Coral Nafie recommends replacing curtains with “… simple white mini-blinds or wood blinds cut-to-measure at a home center. This is a fairly simple fix that can refresh your rooms in just one weekend.” Doing so also will give the homebuyer the advantage of not having to rush out to buy blinds right after moving in – allowing them time to choose their own treatments at their leisure.

  1. Repaint in Neutral Colors

Repainting is one of the most relatively inexpensive and powerful ways to market your home better and add value to it. When prospective buyers visit your home, they should be able to picture themselves in the house – living in it and decorating it according to their own taste. Paint colors that are too specific to your preference could be off-putting to others. Again, don’t assume that house hunters will be able to overlook your bold or unconventional color choices when making their decision. True, they can repaint. But put yourself in the place of someone just moving in, and the stressful work that alone takes! Having to paint one or more rooms may be more than they’re willing to do. Take it off their plate, and repaint in neutral colors. If the new owners want to make their own color statement, they can do so over time.

Another benefit is that painting interior walls in neutral colors will make your rooms seem larger – always a big plus when selling! Using the same color on all walls in the main living area (living room, dining room and family room, if visible from the others) will create an even greater illusion of spaciousness.

  1. Declutter

If you don’t want your potential home buyers to make an exit seconds after they step inside, say yes to decluttering! This is a sensitive issue – especially if you’ve been ensconced for several years and have accumulated furniture, home décor accessories, electronics and almost countless other belongings that you no longer use. But now is the ideal time to sort through your stuff and discard what’s unnecessary, for two important reasons.

First, uncluttered rooms are more aesthetically appealing to potential buyers, and give the appearance of spaciousness. People confronted by the sight of items occupying every surface and corner – or closets crammed beyond capacity – will assume your house lacks enough space to store their belongings – and continue their search elsewhere.

Second, you are planning to move to another house, right? Lighten the amount you’ll need to pack for the moving truck – which also could result in a lower estimate from the moving company, saving you money! To divest yourself of your old items that are in good condition, hold a garage sale or donate them to charity. Safely discard those that are broken, worn-out or obsolete.

Should You DIY or Call a Professional?

No matter how many –or how few – of our nine projects you need to tackle to give your house the best advantage for a quick sale at (or perhaps above) your asking price, the big question is whether you should do it yourself, or call a professional. As you learned, there are certain jobs for which we strongly recommend hiring a pro – based upon such factors as the experience, expertise and labor involved; time and labor involved; and health and safety considerations.

Others are at your own discretion, based upon your own experience with such projects and physical ability. For example, you may feel confident painting your front door, but someone else could opt to hire a painter. Yet however you decide to get your house in shape, making sure it puts its best foot forward, so to speak, can make the difference between it being a hot property or stale listing that stays on the market too long.

Our professionals at The Paint Manager have the experience and skill to perform a wide range of home improvement and home maintenance tasks. We have served Central Florida since 2000 with quality residential and commercial painting services. Visit our website to learn about the many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning, popcorn ceiling removal, and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

How to Paint or Stain a Wood Fence

How to Paint or Stain a Wood Fence

Every homeowner wants their house to be beautiful. But for those who have a wood fence, there is sometimes a tendency to neglect its appearance. Whether your property is a small city lot or an acre, a wood fence comprises a substantial amount of surface to maintain. However, it’s not only a matter of improving curb appeal, but keeping up your wood fence with a fresh coat of paint or wood stain improves its condition and extends its useful life.

While fences are not subject to as much wear and tear as a deck, for example, Central Florida’s intense sun, summer heat, heavy rains, and insects (in fences made of untreated wood) take their toll over time. According to HGTV, experts recommend repainting or restaining every two to three years, but a better way to determine your need is to check for beading. On a stained and sealed fence, if water no longer beads up on the surface, but instead soaks in, it may be time. Check painted surfaces for cracks, chips and wear.

Painting or staining your fence may not be high on the list of home maintenance chores you look forward to, but being proactive and not waiting until it’s the neighborhood eyesore will make the task easier.

On the other hand, you might be an eager do-it-yourselfer ready to tackle the challenge! Whatever the case, knowing which option is better for your fence – as well as the proper technique for preparation and application – will produce the great result you want. So let’s start at the beginning!

Making the Choice between Painting or Staining Your Wood Fence

There are a few factors to consider in making this decision. If your fence is new, you literally have a blank canvas to work with. However, keep in mind the following:

The architectural style of your house – Traditional-style homes are better complemented by a painted fence. Think of the classic white picket fence of a bungalow, cottage or Colonial style home. Contemporary and rustic-style homes are usually set off better by a stained fence.

Your homeowners association (HOA) – If you live in a community with an HOA, there are typically strict regulations regarding exterior house colors. Check before choosing to be sure you comply. Don’t risk staining when paint is required for fencing – or vice-versa – and confirm which colors are permitted.

If – as is more common – you’ll be repainting or restaining – you could see this as an opportunity to go in a different direction. But the reality is that painting over stain is somewhat easier, as doing the opposite requires stripping the paint and prepping the wood to accept stain. So to some degree, the existing treatment determines which you’ll use. That being said, the following are the advantages and disadvantages of each:

Painting a fence As Matt the Painter notes, one of the biggest benefits of paint is its variety. Paint comes in many colors and finishes. As a result, you have more room to be creative with the presentation of your fence. You can opt for a matte or glossy finish to add to the aesthetic appeal of your house. Still, be aware of neighborhood standards. If surrounding homes have that sweet white picket fence, think twice about choosing an over-the-top color. As another plus, paint dries faster than stain, which can come in handy if you are on a tight schedule.

However, using paint has its share of disadvantages. Paint can be expensive, which will push your budget higher. Since it requires a primer as a base and multiple coats to properly cover the fence, you are likely to require a higher quantity of paint to complete the job. It is also less durable than a stain and can chip under extreme weather conditions.

Staining a fence Staining a fence can be a great option if you are looking for durable coverage, as stain absorbs into the wood. As a result, it lasts longer and is not at any risk of being washed or chipped away. Fence stain is also significantly less pricey compared to paints. Therefore, if you want a budget-friendly solution to protecting your fence, staining should be your choice.

One possible downside is that staining your fence offers fewer options in terms of colors or textures. Stains are typically available in natural colors. Again, this can be an advantage if your home is more modern or rustic in style, or located in a wooded area with plenty of trees. In addition, a fence stain takes a longer time to dry and can be inconvenient if you are in a rush to complete the project due to time or weather conditions.

So, if you are looking to enhance the aesthetic value of your fence and don’t mind spending a little extra, painting it would be the better option. However, if longevity and a budget-friendly price are your primary concerns, you should opt for staining your fence. In either case, use a high-quality paint or fence stain that is UV-resistant for long-term protection against the elements.

Whether you choose to paint or stain, newcomers to Central Florida need to be aware that the months of June through August are known as “rainy season” or “monsoon season.” As you can expect almost daily afternoon thunderstorms, avoid any exterior paint or stain job during that period. Late spring and mid-fall present more favorable weather for such projects. Even then, pay attention to the projected weather forecasts while planning!

Preparing the Fence and the Surrounding Ground

As is the case with any paint (or stain) job, preparation is key to achieve the best possible result. True Value offers the following advice:

  • Clean the surrounding area: Remove leaves, grass or weeds along the base of the fence by mowing, raking, weeding by hand or spraying a weed killer. Place a drop cloth below or next to the fence to catch debris or dripping paint.
  • Prepare the fence itself: Clean, scrape and sand your fence with medium-grit or fine-grit sandpaper. You may want to use a pressure washer to clean the fence and blast off loose paint. You can also use a garden hose with a power nozzle, a scrub brush and a solution of detergent and water. Use a paint scraper to finish removing remaining loose paint, then use a power sander to blend any raised paint edges into the surrounding areas. Sponge any mold or mildew spots with a 50/50 solution of bleach and water to keep mold or mildew from growing back. Also be sure to check your fence for termite or insect damage. If you find insect activity, replace the damaged wood.
  • Safety first: Always wear gloves and a face mask when sanding and working with toxic chemicals – even when outdoors! If using a paint sprayer, wear safety glasses and a dust mask or respirator.

Fence Painting Techniques for a Beautiful Result

If you are the proud owner of a house with a fence in Central Florida, using the right application techniques for paint or stain can help set off your property to perfection!

Applying paint with a roller or paint sprayer are options. If you choose a sprayer, use an airless model or rent a high-volume/low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer for greater control with less overspray. Use a paintbrush to catch drips and work paint into hard-to-reach areas. If you are opting for staining, use a stain brush, which holds more finish with less dripping.

HGTV provides the following application instructions. However, be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions for use, as well as precautions.

  • Pour your coating into a bucket and mix thoroughly. Using a wide nylon or polyester brush (4-6 inches), begin dipping the brush into the paint and applying the coating. For best results, begin with any top trim or horizontal structures.
  • Paint the vertical pickets, working from the top of the fence to the bottom. If using a roller, back-brush every couple of feet to ensure even coverage and avoid lap marks. If you are using a paint sprayer, work in the same method, but stop every few feet and use a wide brush to back-brush. This will prevent lap marks and better help absorb the coating into the surface. Continue in this manner until the entire surface is covered. Allow to dry completely, then add another coat, if necessary. Once you’re finished, remove any masking tape and the drop cloth.
  • Allow to dry completely, then add another coat, if necessary. Once you’re finished, remove any masking tape and the drop cloth. 

Now for the big question – should you do it yourself, or call a professional? As our blog post – “How to Paint a Wrought Iron Fence” – covers, those who have proven DIY experience may feel confident enough to take on this project. For most homeowners, however, leaving it to a professional painting contractor is well worth the investment. A professional has the experience and skill, as well as the proper supplies and equipment to get the job done right and safely.

Our team at The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for more than 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Common Interior Painting Mistakes to Avoid

Common Interior Painting Mistakes to Avoid

So you’ve decided to take the DIY approach and paint the interior walls of your house! If this is your first time tackling such a project, you may think it looks easy, based on what you’ve seen on cable TV home makeover shows. Isn’t it amazing how an entire room can be painted and everything moved back into perfect place in just one hour? However, in the real world, painting even a small space requires a good deal of careful planning and preparation. And even those who have some experience perhaps didn’t get the result they expected because they missed one or more key steps in the process.

In the interest of setting up your project for success, our house painting experts at The Paint Manager offer this guide of common interior painting mistakes to avoid. Prevention is always easier than correction!

Mistakes in Paint Selection

This may seem fairly straightforward. You find a color you like based on the color chips on display in the home improvement center’s paint department or paint store and buy it. Yet the color of the paint itself differs from that of the color chip – which isn’t painted, it’s printed on heavy stock paper. Because it isn’t real paint on a real wall, the color can’t be accurate – it’s just a close approximation.

Spare yourself the shock, disappointment and expense of discovering this too late by asking for paint samples of the colors that interest you, and “audition” them at home. You’ll be painting the wall anyway, so brush some generous swatches of each color to see the actual shade, and how each looks in the room’s lighting conditions during different times of day and evening. Wall texture can also affect how paint color appears.

If you don’t want to apply paint samples directly to the wall, home improvement expert Lee Walender recommends cutting large squares of coated posterboard, taping them to the wall, and painting them. One advantage of this option is that you can move the squares around the room to see the color in various lights.

The few dollars you may have to spend on paint samples will be well worth avoiding the expense of repainting if you don’t like the color that looked so good on the chip once it’s on your walls – or the resignation of living with it if repainting isn’t feasible!

Inadvertently choosing the wrong color isn’t the only pitfall. As our blog post – “How to Choose Interior Paint” – covers, you must also select the right type of paint for the project. Paint comes in two main types – water-based and oil-based. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Water-based paint is less expensive than oil-based, dries quickly, and resists cracking, fading and discoloration – but isn’t quite as durable. Oil-based paints are highly durable and provide a glossy surface, if that’s the effect you want to create – but can crack if the surface underneath shrinks (as can happen with wood), and may eventually yellow.

After the paint type, you need to select the correct paint finish for your interiors. The main types of finishes are matte (flat), eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and high gloss. The previously mentioned blog post describes each in detail. The function of the room to be painted typically has a strong influence on what type of finish should be used. For example, one common mistake is using matte paint for kitchens and baths. Semi-gloss is the preferred choice in these rooms, as they’re subjected to high moisture, drips and grease stains. This durable finish is moisture-resistant and easy to wipe clean without rubbing off the paint over time – as would happen with a matte finish in a kitchen.

Mistakes in Prep Work

Doing proper preparation work is crucial to DIY painting success, says painting company owner Cate Griffing of West Magnolia Charm. “I see DIYers do this all the time. They don’t take the time to gather all the supplies together. Then they begin the project only to realize they have forgotten something. Now, they have to stop what they are doing to go retrieve what is needed. The back and forth is not only wasting time but it’s also creating extra work.”

Disorganization can create a safety hazard, as well. Forgetting a ladder may lead you to improvise and use a chair or other unstable object to reach the top of a wall. Professional painters make sure they have all the supplies they need at the work site before starting the job. You should, too!

Other major mistakes Griffing identifies include:

  • Not inspecting the walls for imperfections, such as holes, cracks, etc., then correcting them by spackling, caulking and sanding.
  • Not cleaning the walls – especially in kitchens and baths. Grease, oils, hairspray, etc., accumulate on the walls of these rooms, which makes cleaning them a necessity before painting.
  • Not using primer. Not all painting projects require a stand-alone primer. However, there are certain cases that do – such as painting bare drywall, covering dark or vibrant colors, or painting over glossy finishes, wood and plaster.
  • Not using drop cloths to protect your flooring. No matter how careful you try to be, paint will drip – whether you use a roller or brush. “It may seem like a pain, but the few minutes it takes to put down drop cloths will save you hours of scrubbing stubborn paint splatter off the floors later on,” Griffing says.
  • Not using painter’s tape. “If you want a top-notch, professional-looking painting job, do not skip using real painter’s tape. Taping allows you to get those crisp, clean, straight lines that we so desire.” To prevent paint from bleeding, seal tightly around baseboards, windows and molding. Secure tape with a putty knife instead of your fingers for best results.

Mistakes in Application Technique

Once you have all of your supplies and equipment together, and the walls are ready to be painted, improper paint application can still spoil the quality of your result! The following mistakes to avoid come from Griffing, home design expert Marie Proeller Hueston for Bob Villa, and Family Handyman.

  • Buying cheap applicators. Trying to save money by buying low-quality brushes and rollers is false economy. They won’t apply paint properly, and may shed bristles or become unusable halfway through the process. Investing in good applicators will pay off!
  • Dunking your paintbrush. When you submerge a paintbrush entirely in paint, the paint can dry in the bristles and be harder to clean later. Also, a large dunk for a roller can mat down the roller. Instead, only dip your paintbrush about a third of the way into the can.
  • Not painting in the right order. Painting walls, ceilings and trim in the wrong order can cause such issues as paint drips and uneven coverage. Always start with the ceiling, next move on to the walls, and finally the trim. When painting the walls, follow this order: top to bottom, left to right.
  • Bumping your roller into the ceiling as you paint the walls. Roll on a horizontal strip of paint parallel to the ceiling first. Then roll vertically up to the horizontal strip. The 9-inch-wide strip of paint along the ceiling will give you a good buffer zone.
  • Bumping your roller onto the floor as you paint the walls. If you’re painting new walls before the baseboard is installed, leave an unpainted strip along the bottom where it will be covered by the baseboard. If you try to paint too close to the floor, your roller cover could touch it and pick up dirt, lint and hair that you will then spread across the wall.
  • Over-brushing – that is, brushing over the same area, especially after the paint has started to dry. This causes unsightly brush marks and ridges. For the smoothest possible finish when you’re painting woodwork, doors or cabinets, load the brush and quickly cover an area with paint. Then use a stroke or two to level it off.
  • Applying a single coat of paint. Today’s high-quality paints can provide single-coat coverage if you use a primer. However, if you don’t use primer or are applying a lighter shade over a dark color, two coats may be necessary.

Not Up to Painting Like a Pro? Call Our Pros!

Some homeowners have the experience, skill, equipment and time to successfully tackle a DIY interior paint job. But there’s no shame if you don’t! That’s our job! The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

How to Texture Your Interior Walls

How to Texture Your Interior Walls

When it comes to home improvement projects, there aren’t many that don’t involve a good deal of expense and/or heavy labor. So if you’re wondering how you can quickly improve the look of your interior walls without making a big investment, texturing them may be the solution you’re looking for!

Wall texture is a product that is thicker than paint, yet thinner than drywall compound, although drywall compound can be used. Three main types are available – a ready-to-use roll-on product, dry mix (powder to be mixed in water) and spray (may be water- or oil-based). Products in a spray can are better suited for touch-ups to an existing wall texture, however. And while applying texture to one or more walls is relatively easy as DIY projects go, it still requires prep work and specialized tools that you may have to rent or purchase. That said, compared to other solutions, texturing can save you time and money – with the plus side of providing a stylish interior décor touch!

The Advantages of a Textured Wall Surface

As home renovation expert Lee Wallender writes for The Spruce, “Wall texture is often applied out of necessity … But wall texture does have the distinct advantage of being a quick method of finishing walls without the seemingly endless cycles of mudding, curing, and sanding drywall compounds. Wall texture can cover up imperfect drywall or mudding work, and it dries rapidly enough that you can begin painting just hours later.”

For this reason, texturing is ideal for concealing drywall repairs that leave visible seams. It also can be used to cover minor wall damage – such as gouges that don’t go through the drywall – as well as areas in which molding or wainscoting have been removed. While Wallender contends that most homeowners would prefer a smooth surface, achieving it involves the expense and upheaval of installing new drywall. Our blog post – “Types of Drywall You Need to Know About” – covers this topic in greater detail.

Wallender’s assumption could be just an expression of his own preference, as texturing offers a way to get creative and make a unique, stylish statement. Even if you’re not trying to conceal a flawed wall surface, texturing can create an eye-catching accent wall, or add dimension and character to a room.

Should you decide to take the plunge, there are some design principles to keep in mind. As you learn about the different types of textured finishes that follow, choose the finish that best complements the space. For example, comb or orange peel would be appropriate for an accent wall in a small-to-medium-size room, while knockdown or slap brush knockdown might be overwhelming.

Also, be careful if texturing more than one wall in a room. Again, keep visual proportions in mind, and avoid choosing a texture that calls attention to itself. You want the texture to work with all the other elements in the room, rather than be the first thing that you and others see!

Types of Textured Finishes

There are seven main types of textured wall finishes. Home improvement writer Timothy Dale and home renovation legend Bob Villa describe each in an article for Villa’s self-named website, as well as recommended preparation steps and application techniques.

Comb – This texture is one of the most basic techniques, allowing you to create lines of various widths and shapes. This technique is often used to produce a repeated series of rainbow patterns. It requires drywall compound, a roller and a drywall trowel that has evenly spaced teeth (or uneven teeth if you are going for a less organized pattern). Apply the drywall compound to the wall using the roller, then use the teeth of the trowel to gently apply lines in the wet compound.

Popcorn – Although popcorn texture ceilings have a bad reputation, this finish on a wall creates a different impression – especially after painting! If you intend it to be a true accent wall, a popcorn texture wall painted a different color from the room’s other walls will make it stand out in a good way. To create this finish, you need popcorn texture, an air compressor and a hopper gun.

Orange peel – This texture looks exactly as it sounds – it resembles the peel of an orange. Prime the walls so that the texture has a smooth, dirt-free surface to stick to. Use a hopper gun with an adjustable valve, a drywall compound and an air compressor.

Knockdown – This creates a unique, rustic pattern, akin to stucco. Knockdown can be achieved by adding a step to the orange peel technique: After applying an orange peel texture to the walls, flatten the peaks and bumps that form in the drywall compound using an 18-inch or wider knockdown knife. Smaller rooms will likely require a wait period of about 10 to 15 minutes after spraying before the peaks can begin to be flattened, while a larger room can probably be started as soon as you are finished spraying. Just be sure to begin flattening in the same area that you began spraying.

Sand swirl – This creates an artistic, free-form effect that isn’t overwhelming. Use a compound known as perlite (primer with sand mixed into it) and a 7-inch-wide paint brush. Hold the paintbrush by the base, as this will give you more control than holding the handle. Dip the brush a few inches into the perlite, giving it a wipe on either side of the bucket to remove loose drips. Start at the top of the wall, making a big loop with an open bottom. Each row of this swirl pattern will cover up the bottom of the previous row. 

Slap brush – The slap brush texture creates a random pattern of thin lines that add an eccentric flair to any room. This type of wall texture is a great choice if you aren’t confident with a spray gun. All that’s needed is a roller, a double crows foot drywall texture brush (also known as a slap brush) and drywall compound. Mix the compound with water until it reaches a thick paint consistency, then apply it evenly to the wall using your roller. Complete two 5-foot-wide sections before picking up the slap brush. Apply drywall compound to each side of the slap brush in a thin coating, and then begin slapping the first section of the wall with the brush. There shouldn’t be any specific pattern to the texture, so have fun and mix it up by twisting the angle of the slap brush in the air between slaps. 

Slap brush knockdown – This texture combines the slap brush technique with the flattening step of the knockdown texture to create a random pattern of flatter, wider lines, instead of peaked, thin lines. To apply this texture, you will need a roller, slap brush, knockdown knife and drywall compound. Using the slap brush technique, work your way around the room until each wall is evenly covered in a slap brush texture. For smaller rooms, wait 10 to 15 minutes before beginning to flatten the peaks using the knockdown knife. For larger rooms, you can begin flattening the peaks immediately.

How to DIY – But Call a Pro if You Need Help

You may have noticed that some of the application techniques that Dale and Villa recommend require sprayers or other types of equipment you might not feel confident using. Fear not! Shannon Cooper provides a simplified method in her article for 21 Oak. The basic steps follow. Please read the article in its entirety for complete step-by-step instructions.

Prep work – Applying texture to a wall is a messy process. Lay drop cloths on the floor and use plastic sheeting and painter’s tape to cover windows, trim and doorways. Pre-coat the wall by applying a layer of drywall primer or flat white latex paint, then let dry. This step is vital. Otherwise, the bare drywall will absorb the texture paint, negating all of your hard work.

Prepare the texture compound – Mix the texture material after the primer dries completely. Take a 5-gallon bucket and mix four parts of drywall and one part of water. Use the paint mixer attachment of your drill to mix thoroughly. The consistency should be like a thick pancake batter. You can also buy premade texture paint if you don’t want to make your own. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and stir the paint thoroughly before applying it to the wall.

Roll the texture on the wall – Adding texture to a wall must be done in two stages: rolling on the compound and, when that layer is partially dry, applying a second coat. Begin by filling the paint tray with the texture paint or handmade texture compound. Dip your roller into the paint, roll it out, and begin applying it to the wall. A standard roller cover will create a texture, but you may want to try a cover specifically designed for texture. If you’re using store-bought paint, follow all the manufacturer’s directions, as they may only recommend one coat. For corners and other areas that are difficult to reach with your roller, apply the texturing material with the flat face of a paintbrush.

After it dries, apply the texture again – It is crucial to know when to apply the second coat. Let the first coat dry halfway, then apply the second. To check how dry the texture is, press your thumb against the wall and remove it. Apply the second coat after the first coat dries to the desired level. Use a paintbrush to cover corners and crevices effectively.

Get the finish you want – As mentioned earlier, there are many types of texture. If you have the right tools, you can create a variety of finishes. Cooper describes how to create a knockdown finish, which looks like textured plaster. To achieve this effect, run a drywall knife across the surface with the blade held at a flat angle before the wall is completely dry. Once the wall is dry, those who used homemade drywall compound can seal the surface with primer and paint it with their chosen color.

Now that you know the many techniques for texturing walls, you may have answered your own question as to whether you can – or should – do it yourself, or hire a professional. While Cooper’s method can be accomplished by those with beginner-level DIY skills, those who want to cover more than one wall or use a different technique requiring specialized equipment – such as an air-compressor-powered electric sprayer – would be advised to call a pro. Also, a professional has experience in knowing the proper texturing compound consistency – plus has the relevant expertise, appropriate tools, personal protective equipment and assistance, if needed.

The Paint Manager offers experienced, professional application of wall texturing, as well as drywall repair. Our team has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Hurricane Season is Here! Make Sure Your Property is Ready!

Hurricane Season is Here! Make Sure Your Property is Ready!

It’s once again hurricane season in Central Florida! If this is your first in the Sunshine State, Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with August and September typically the most active months. Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center — a division of the National Weather Service — predict a 65% chance of an above-normal hurricane season this year. Although our area has been spared a direct hit the past few years, it doesn’t pay to take chances when it comes to preparing your property to prevent or minimize hurricane damage.

Why You Need to be Prepared

Unlike tornados, hurricanes travel according to a trajectory that can be predicted with a good degree of accuracy – and even fast-moving storms usually give those in their path about 24 to 48 hours to either batten down the hatches or evacuate. While this may seem like a good amount of time, you don’t want to be scrambling to move outdoor furniture, planters, etc., indoors or to a more sheltered area while making sure you have enough batteries, flashlights and emergency provisions (a.k.a. “hurricane food”) to see you through a possible prolonged power outage. This also is not the time you want to be worried about that brittle old tree branch hanging over your roof!

While hurricanes tend to be the focus this time of year, it’s also the season for tropical storms – which have sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph and may or may not become a hurricane.

Hurricanes and tropical storms aside, our almost-daily summer afternoon thunderstorms are sometimes severe enough to wreak havoc on trees, landscaping and home exteriors – as well as cause flooding in low-lying areas or yards with poor drainage.

We at The Paint Manager want you to be ready if a hurricane hits Central Florida or nature unleashes its fury with other severe storms. In addition to following the steps recommended here, we encourage you to read our previous blog posts on this topic:

Check Your Roof, Exterior Walls and Screened Enclosure

Roofs are particularly vulnerable to hurricane damage. Mark Kaufman Roofing recommends having the roof inspected and any needed repairs taken care of promptly. “This might include getting damaged or missing shingles or tiles replaced, having missing metal panel anchors replaced, getting any flashing defects dealt with, and making sure that loose soffits, ventilation turbines and gable end/eave vents are properly secured. Have hurricane straps or truss tie-downs added in the attic to bolster the roof/wall connections and bracing installed if your roof has gable ends taller than 48 inches.”

Also be sure to clean out the gutters and repair any deficiencies – such as sagging or poorly-attached sections, or loose or poorly-placed downspouts. If your gutters are clogged, the backed-up water will sit on your roof, and the probability of water entering your house will increase.

Next, assess the condition of your home’s exterior walls. It is crucial to caulk any cracks you see. Left unrepaired, they can cause damage when breached by driving hurricane-force winds and rain. The most weather-resistant types of caulk are silicone, urethane and Elastomeric latex caulk. Other options include acrylic and latex caulk, with the latter being especially easy to apply.

Inspect each window and door, and reseal if needed. Florida’s high summer temperatures take a toll on caulk around these components, making it necessary to reseal them more frequently than in moderate climates. Ygrene recommends checking the caulk around the frame and glazing around the panes carefully.

If your home has a screened pool enclosure, Dulando Screen & Awning offers the following advice:

Brace your screen enclosure – When bad weather takes down pool screen enclosures, inadequate bracing is often to blame. Pool enclosure hurricane braces reinforce the structural integrity of the pool enclosure. Verifying that your pool cage has hurricane braces before a storm arrives can minimize damage.

Check your enclosure’s hardware – Screws are small, but they can have a major effect when it comes to pool enclosure hurricane safety. Florida’s high humidity allows rust to flourish, and rusted fasteners leave a structure weak. Checking that your enclosure is built with corrosion-resistant fasteners is a simple way to ensure that it has the strength to survive nasty weather.

Preparing Your Yard to Prevent Storm Damage

Paying attention to the condition of your trees and trimming branches and/or removing dead or declining trees should be done before hurricane season, but there’s still time if you act now. As mentioned earlier, heavy branches hanging over your roof can snap off in a hurricane and crash through your roof, or crush the top of your vehicle. Ditto for an uprooted tree. Branches also can become projectiles and crash through windows – yours, or a neighbor’s!

An article in TC Palm warns about a particular risk of waiting until a hurricane watch or warning is issued before pruning. “Trash pickups will be suspended and your trimmings can become dangerous airborne projectiles propelled by the storm’s high winds.”

Other tips from TC Palm include:

  • Call a professional – Trees trimmed by a professional arborist are far less likely to fall.
  • Thinning a tree allows wind to blow through its canopy, offering less wind resistance in a storm. Prune young trees to create a single leader, which will grow into a strong trunk.
  • Minimize damage to mature trees by removing weak branches and reducing limb lengths.
  • Hatracked trees become sails. Removing a tree’s canopy encourages bushy growth, making a tree top-heavy and wind-resistant. Hatracking also is illegal.
  • “Lifted” trees lead to broken branches. “Lifting” is a practice in which lower branches are removed for clearance underneath. It can cause branch breakage and makes trees top-heavy.

Short-term preparations involve moving patio furniture, grills and container plants indoors or to a sheltered area. TC Palm provides this important to-do list:

  • Take in hanging pots and baskets. Secure or take in pots from shade houses.
  • Secure young trees with additional stakes.
  • Don’t remove fruit. If you put it in a trash pile and the pile isn’t picked up, the fruit may fly around in the wind.
  • Tree-dwelling bromeliads, staghorn ferns and orchids can be secured with fishing line.
  • Take in or tie up piles of yard or construction debris.
  • Take in all garden furniture, grills, outdoor torches, string lights and other such items. (Do not sink furniture in the swimming pool.)

Being prepared for a hurricane can help you feel more confident, knowing you’ve taken every step to make your home safe and secure. If you need help getting ready, The Paint Manager has served Central Florida since 2000 with quality professional services that include roof repair, caulking, gutter cleaning and painting.

Visit our website to learn about the many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer.

How to Paint a Wrought Iron Fence

How to Paint a Wrought Iron Fence

A wrought iron fence around your home or garden can make your property look more attractive and elegant. Ranging in styles from ornate to contemporary, wrought iron fencing is popular for its sturdy construction as well as its beauty. But while a wrought iron fence doesn’t need the amount of maintenance a wood fence requires, some upkeep is necessary to prevent rusting and to renew its panache. If your property is graced by a wrought iron fence, there may come a time when it needs to be painted or repainted.

Of course, this poses the question of whether you should do it yourself or hire a painting contractor. Although budget is definitely a factor, attempting the project yourself could wind up becoming too time-and-labor-intensive. When it comes to wrought iron, not doing the job properly can create a sloppy appearance that detracts from its classic style – and also set the stage for future condition issues.

If your fence was installed before 1978, there is a possibility that it – and the exterior and interior of your house – has a coat of lead-based paint. As our blog post – “How to Stay Safe When Painting Homes With Lead-Based Paint” – covers, lead-based paint was commonly used until being banned by the federal government in 1978 as a toxic substance. As long as lead-based paint is covered by one or more coats of non-lead-based paint, it does not pose a health hazard. However, it can become airborne if stripped during repainting or remodeling – at which point it’s dangerous if inhaled or adheres to clothing or exposed skin.

Should you suspect your wrought iron fence has a coat of lead-based paint beneath its current coat, have the paint tested by a lead abatement company before proceeding. The Paint Manager is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm – which means that we are certified to conduct lead-based paint removal, repair and painting activities. Please visit our Certifications & Credentials page to view our certification. Home testing kits are available, but are not particularly accurate.

Prep Work is the Key to Success in Painting a Wrought Iron Fence

When it comes to wrought iron fence painting, carefully performing the preparation work is key to achieving a smooth, even result. Take your time. Patience is a virtue that will pay off! The following instructions are courtesy of Andres Matheu, owner of Hömm Certified Painting Systems, Washington, D.C., in his article for WikiHow.

Step 1: Remove paint and rust

Spread a drop cloth or sheet around the fence – Paint and rust removal is a messy job. Keep your property clean by laying out a sheet or drop cloth to catch falling debris. Avoid doing this job in windy weather.

Use a dust mask, goggles and gloves – Paint and rust debris can irritate your skin, throat and eyes. Wear gloves to prevent cuts and irritation.

Use a metal scraper to remove paint and rust from flat surfaces – Old paint and rust will not allow the new coat to adhere to the surface properly. Use a metal scraper to remove them from the flat surfaces. Scrape back and forth to make the process effective, and be sure you don’t miss any spots.

Use a wire brush to remove paint and rust from curved areas – If your fence has ornamental details, use a wire brush to remove paint and rust from the curved places. Scrub all of the areas you couldn’t reach with the scraper. Rub back and forth to flake off any paint and rust. Use a powered grinder to remove remaining rust spots.

Use 150-grit sandpaper for sanding the fence – Sanding is crucial to prepare the fence for repainting. You can use 150-grit sandpaper to sand the surface. Make sure you sand the whole surface. Use a steady, back-and-forth motion to smooth the rough spots.

Remove any remaining dust – Soak a rag in mineral spirits and rub it over the entire fence, scrubbing hard to pick up remaining residue. Wear gloves during this process. Don’t clean the iron with water, as it can result in rust.

Step 2: Prime the metal

Use an oil-based primer – To avoid rusting, apply the primer as soon as sanding is complete. Oil-based primers are best for outdoor applications because they adhere to the surface properly and resist the elements well. Buy a roll-on or spray metal primer. For roll-on primer, apply in smooth strokes, rolling back and forth to achieve complete coverage. Touch up missed areas with a brush. For a spray primer, spray eight inches from the fence, using a back-and-forth motion. Wear protective gear while spraying; do not spray primer in windy conditions.

Wait two to four hours for the primer to dry, then start painting – The length of time depends upon the type of primer used. Spray usually dries in about two hours; roll-on primer in about four. Weather conditions also affect drying time. Check the fence with your finger to see if the primer has dried, then start painting.  

Choosing the Right Paint and Application Method

Two of the most crucial elements apart from prep work in wrought iron fence painting include choosing the right paint and the application method. Exterior-grade enamel paint will protect your wrought iron fence from rust, corrosion and other environmental conditions. Acrylic-based latex paint has the advantage of expanding and contracting at temperature extremes. While freezing temperatures aren’t a concern in Central Florida, our triple-digit summer afternoons can take a toll on any painted exterior surface.

Capitol City Ironworks recommends a spray paint, as it is easy to work with and provides even coverage of the fence. After applying the first coat, allow it to dry and spray a second coat to provide a thick, protective covering. Pay close attention to crevices, nooks and crannies to ensure you don’t leave any areas exposed.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional Painter?

We haven’t deliberately made this process appear to be more intensive than it actually is. Successfully painting a wrought iron fence involves a great deal of preparation, painstaking work and meticulous attention to detail. As you’ve probably also gathered, it takes physical stamina. That being said, if you are experienced at remodeling projects and are in good shape physically, you may have the confidence that this is in your wheelhouse.

For most homeowners, however, leaving it to a professional painting contractor is well worth the investment. A professional has the experience and skill, as well as the proper supplies and equipment to get the job done right and safely.

Our team at The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Why You Should Hire a Pro to Remove Wallpaper

Why You Should Hire a Pro to Remove Wallpaper

Wallpaper is the great leap-of-faith in interior decorating. You fall in love with a pattern that you think is perfect for an accent wall or entire room, and make the big commitment. Or the previous owner of your house did. But décor fashions and tastes change, and what was once stylish is now embarrassingly dated – or was never to your liking to begin with, in the case of the home you just bought. Even if you’re still fond of the wallpaper you chose years ago, it may be showing signs of wear, making the entire room look tired.

Whatever the case, it’s time for a change. However, you’ll soon discover – or already have – that wallpaper isn’t easy to remove. And that doing so isn’t a job for a homeowner who doesn’t happen to do it for a living. If you think that you can get around the inevitable by painting or wallpapering over existing wallpaper, think again! Wallpaper is a stubborn, formidable adversary. In order to save your time, sanity and wall surface, you should hire a professional to do the honors.

Why You Shouldn’t Paint Over Wallpaper – Or Wallpaper Over Existing Wallpaper

A blog post by Matthews’ Painting Company, Columbia City, IN, describes the situation as follows:

“Removing the wallpaper before you paint your wall will generally give superior and long-lasting results compared to painting over it. Wallpaper is typically applied in rows, so if you paint over it, the seams at the end of the rows might show through the paint. Additionally, most wallpaper designs are textured, and the textures and patterns might show in the paint as well. The moisture in the paint might also cause the wallpaper adhesive to loosen, which results in sections of the wallpaper to detach or bubble.”

In addition, as Lowe’s points out, “Paint will seal the surface and make the wallpaper almost impossible to remove in the future.”

If you are planning other DIY interior painting projects, our blog post – “Do it Yourself: The Seven Blunders of Interior Painting” – covers common pitfalls in detail.

Risking an outcome that looks even worse than the wallpaper it was intended to cover isn’t worth the expense, time and effort of slapping on a coat of paint and hoping for the best. Neither is applying new wallpaper over existing wallpaper. While it is possible under certain circumstances, the necessary prep work is exacting, and not well-suited to amateurs. Anything less than a perfectly smooth, even surface won’t produce a good outcome.

According to Lowe’s, installation over existing paper isn’t recommended if:

  • You suspect there may be more than a single layer of wallpaper on the surface.
  • The existing wallpaper has a vinyl, foil or plastic film. In this case, the wallpaper should be removed even if there’s only one layer in good condition. Wallpaper adhesive won’t adhere well to these surfaces.
  • You’re planning to hang vinyl wallpaper. If the previous wallpaper is also vinyl, the glue between the two papers won’t dry well. If the old wallpaper isn’t vinyl, the glue under it may get wet and start to mildew.
  • The existing wallpaper is grass cloth, burlap or cork.
  • You can hear crinkling sounds when running your hand over the surface of the wall. If you do, the wallpaper has buckled and it needs to be removed.
  • If there are tears in the wallpaper at the corners of the walls; when walls settle, wallpaper sometimes tears in a corner.

 

Considering DIY Wallpaper Removal? Learn What’s Involved!

Every home and wall surface is different. If you live in an older home, there can be several layers of wallpaper underneath the current one – making the task even more challenging. You also don’t know the condition of the drywall or plaster (typically used in homes until the mid-1940s). Perhaps the wallpaper was originally applied to conceal stains from water damage, or another condition that will need to be addressed once uncovered.

The type of wallpaper and what lies beneath will also determine the optimum means of removal. According to Lowe’s, so-called “strippable” wallcovering is the easiest, as it’s intended to be removed without water or chemicals. Even so, this doesn’t mean there’s no work involved, as you may still need to use a razor knife to remove stubborn sections.

Lowe’s provides detailed DIY instructions for the main types of wallpaper, including instructions for prep work. This is well worth reading to determine if you want to attempt it yourself, or hire a pro. Just keep in mind that instructions and tutorial videos usually make any project look easier than it actually is. If this is your first rodeo, factor in some extra time for complications or setbacks. Be sure you have the right equipment. Improvising with something not intended for the purpose – such as a chair instead of a ladder – can be a safety hazard. The same goes for protective clothing.

The Advantages of Hiring a Professional for Removing Wallpaper

Consider the reason you want to remove your home’s existing wallpaper. A well-maintained, up-to-date house is not only more enjoyable to live in, it increases your home’s market value should you decide to sell. Sloppy DIY attempts at repairs or remodeling detract from its value, rather than improve it.

The pros at SurePro Painting, Austin, TX, offer the following reasons why you should hire a company that includes wallpaper removal as part of its core services.

Professionals get it right the first time – As mentioned earlier, there are often many more steps than just removing the paper. Some projects might require different steps depending on the type of wallpaper and the method originally used to install it. Will steam be required, or special chemicals? Can the wall be peeled or will it have to be scored and scraped? Will the wall have to be sealed before skimming and texture? Experts who deal with home wall decor on a consistent basis know how to remove wallpaper in the most efficient – and safe – manner.

Professionals have the right tools and equipment – In order to properly remove wallpaper without damaging the wall itself, you’ll need to buy quite a few things. First, you’ll need a ladder and some spray bottles to moisten the wallpaper with water. Then you will need scoring tools and putty knives to scrape all of the wallpaper, piece by piece. 

In some cases you will need specialized chemicals, along with rubber gloves and eye protection. Some people may wish to use a mask as well. Dropcloths, plastic and tape will also be necessary, as well as the materials and tools needed to do sheetrock touch-ups and painting. Professionals have all of these and more to bring to every job. Buying equipment, tools and materials you may never use again is an extra expense better spent on hiring a pro!

You won’t risk damaging your home’s walls – Attempting this project on your own could result in damage – which will cost you even more money to repair. Hiring an expert greatly reduces damage to the walls. If any does occur during the removal process, a pro will fix it as part of their service. Remember, they’ve encountered every type of complication on the job, and come prepared for any circumstance.

You can get interior decorating advice – Painting contractors often can provide advice on paint color, wallpaper selection and even specialty wall textures to pull your room together to give it a fresh, up-to-date look. Instead of trying to decide what to do with your newly bare walls, you can get help from an expert included with the price of wallpaper removal! The Paint Manager provides this service with all of our interior and exterior paint projects, as well as with wallpaper removal. You can even preview colors by today’s leading paint companies on our website to inspire some ideas!

You save time and energy – Your time is worth something – and removing wallpaper is very time-consuming and labor-intensive. Do you really want to spend a weekend or two removing wallpaper and making repairs? Then, think about the work ahead – either painting or applying new wallpaper (for which we at The Paint Manager also recommend our services).

The Take-Home Message

We hope we’ve made a compelling case to leave wallpaper removal to professional hands! Our team at The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

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