Some tips for do-it-yourself house painters

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 33033, 28 September 1972, Page 20

Some tips for do-it-yourself house painters

The do-it-yoursellf house-painting project will be that much easier if the painter- „ in-chief (dad) and his team (mum and the kids) follow a few simple tips.

The tips apply no matter whether the painting is to be done inside or outside or whether the paint to be used is oiled based gloss, semi gloss or acrylic. • Prepare every surface to accept a fresh covering of paint. This means taking off the peeling, flaky or chalky paint, filling cracks that can absorb moisture, using a primer undercoat to seal porous wood and sanding down any previously painted surface that is so smooth and glossy that new paint can’t adhere. For large areas, consider using an electric drill with inexpensive sanding and wire brush attachments to remove and rough up old paint.

• For a two-storey home, use an aluminium extension ladder that is lightweight enough for one man to handle. • Use drop-cloths to protect shrubbery, patio, walks and driveway while painting. For most projects, four 9 by 12foot drop-cloths will be enough. Non - porous plastic drop-cloths are recommended for do-it-yourself projects. • Do things in the right order. Take off shutters; remove or cover light fixtures; caulk cracks or surface defects; prime unsealed wood or bare metal; remove chipping, peeling or chalking paint, and sand highgloss areas from previous paintings before applying paint. • Use a quality brush or roller to apply the paint. Brushes are expensive but are worth the money if looked after. Clean both brushes and rollers thoroughly when the work is done. • Start painting at the top of the house and work down, always painting from an unpainted area

into a previously painted I wet edge. Do an entire I section, usually a side,; at one time. Paint window frames and doors last, using a semigloss latex. • Divide the work among the family, with Dad painting the larger sections of the house and Mum painting window frames and other details of trim. Children also can be helpful in moving dropcloths and stirring paint.