A good paint on your wall is like a good complexion on your skin. Painting is usually cheaper than papering. A good paint will last for many years. If you want to renovate your house, a layer of paint can make a big difference providing it’s done neatly.
To do your job properly, you will need the correct tools. It is very irritating when your job is halfway and you discover that you need a tool but do not have it.
Always clean your tool well before starting, it could have rusted and rust creates awful stains. When your job is finished, wash the tools again and store them in a clean dry place.
Tools you will need for painting and preparation:
Rollers and a tray – the tray allows for even coating. The roller is used to cover large areas evenly and easily. Rollers are more suitable for emulsion than oil-based paints. Short pile rollers are used for a smooth finish and a longer pile fore a more textured look.
Paint pads can also be used. They are lighter than rollers and are perfect for painting ceilings or applying water based paints to walls. You can dip it directly into the paint or use a tray.
Brushes – a small 3/4in brush with angled bristles are used for window frames. A 1in brush can also be used for window frames and can be used for mouldings. For skirting, a 2in brush is used and a 3in for large flat areas.
Strippers and scrapers- to strip old paints a blowtorch or hot-air gun are used. Chemical strippers are also widely available. Scrapers are used to scrape paint off flat surfaces. A shave hook is used for window frames and mouldings. The most versatile shaver is one with a straight-, convex- , and concave side.
Sanders and fillers- fillers are used to fill cracks before painting and sanders are used to even large surfaces.
If you have the correct tools, painting should be an easy job. Remember to ask you paint dealer for tips on preparation for the specific paint you want to use.