Categories Painting

The Enamel vs Latex Paint Guide 

Enamel vs Latex Paint

When you’re taking on a large DIY painting project, you first need to consider what type of paint will be most appropriate. We’ve created an enamel versus latex paint guide to help you make the most educated decision. Your paint choice will largely depend on the type of surface you’re painting along with several other factors we’ll discuss later on. Continue reading to learn more about the pros and cons of enamel vs. latex and when it works best to use one over the other. 

If you live in the Boise area and need a professional painter to paint your home, we’ll give you a free estimate! We serve all of Treasure Valley including Meridian, Boise, Eagle, and Nampa!

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Matte Finish vs Satin and Gloss Finish

What are the Differences Between Enamel vs. Latex Paint?

The main difference between enamel and latex paint is that enamel paint is oil-based while latex paint is water-based. Enamel paints are slow to dry but dry hard. For this reason, enamel paints are your best choice for painting hard surfaces. Latex paints are the better choice when painting surfaces that might expand or need flexibility. 

What is Enamel Paint Best For? 

Enamel paint is typically used for painting exterior residential walls. Its hard, glossy finish makes it not the best choice for interior walls. If you live in an area with extreme climate and temperature changes, enamel paint may not be the best for outdoor use. It doesn’t have the give and flexibility that acrylic paint has. 

Enamel paint is well-suited for kitchen cabinets, trim, doors, and other areas that may need to be cleaned frequently. But be sure to consider that enamel paint holds too high-gloss of a finish for interior walls and ceilings. Because of this, it has a tendency to show imperfections, roller marks, or uneven textures on your walls. 

Now that you understand a little bit more about both kinds of paints, let’s go over the advantages of both enamel and latex: 

Advantages of Using Enamel Paint 

  • Longer Drying Time 

A longer drying time may seem like a disadvantage. But in reality, when a paint takes more time to dry, it gives you more time to work with the paint to achieve a smooth finish. 

  • More Flawless Finish

Enamel paint is known for its excellent coverage and smooth, flawless finish. Because of its oil base, it’s compatible with most building materials and is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. 

  • Easy to Clean 

The more gloss or shine a finish has, the easier it is to wipe down and clean. Because of its hard finish, enamel paint works excellent for surfaces that need to be wiped down often as it’s resistant to moisture. It can be used on surfaces such as metal, glass, copper, wood, plastic, and walls.

  • Waterproof 

This type of paint is known for its washable and glossy finish and durable properties against moisture. 

Should You Paint Or Install Floors First?

What is Latex Paint Best For? 

Latex paints are most often used to paint larger surface areas in homes such as interior walls and ceilings. Because it’s water-based and less toxic than oil-based paints, it’s the best choice for areas where you and your family will be residing. 

Advantages of Using Latex Paint 

  • Budget-friendly 

When you need to cover a large amount of surface space such as interior walls, latex is a less expensive option than enamel. 

  • Ideal for Unprimed Drywall 

If you’re planning to paint on unprimed stonewall, brick, or drywall, latex is your best choice. 

  • Best on Surfaces Already Painted with Latex 

Surfaces that have previously been painted with some kind of latex paint will look better when repainted with another latex application.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Enamel vs. Latex Paint

  1. Interior vs. Exterior Use 

Latex paint is ideal for use on interior walls and ceilings. The matte type finish has just the right amount of sheen for an aesthetic and modern look. Because latex paint has a less durable and hard finish, it’s less suitable for outdoor or exterior use. 

Enamel paint is better suited for outdoor use. While it has a tendency to fade or yellow over time, choosing a neutral enamel paint color will be less likely to fade. This would include earthy tones such as tan, cream, or taupe. 

  1. Finish 

If you want to stick with an eggshell or matte finish, you should choose latex paint for your project. If you feel a hard and glossy finish is best, go with enamel paint for your project. Enamel paint is available in a satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finish. These sheens are best for high durability and areas of wear and tear. 

  1. Drying Time 

It’s important to keep in mind that latex paint dries fast, motivating you to paint quickly. Enamel paint takes quite a bit longer to cure giving you more time to create the perfect finish. 

  1. Paint Odor and Fumes 

If you’ve ever painted in an enclosed space, you know just how powerful and irritating paint fumes can be. Latex paint gives off a mild odor which makes it the better choice for larger interior projects. On the other hand, enamel paint gives off much stronger fumes and should be reserved for smaller projects or outside use. 

  1. Cleanup 

No one likes the cleanup portion of a project. But because latex paints are water-based, the cleanup will likely require only water and some rags. Enamel paints however, need paint thinner for cleaning out brushes and areas where paint has spilled or splattered. 

Is Enamel Paint Waterproof? 

Yes, enamel paint is waterproof. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best outdoor paint option. Because enamel paint tends to dry to a harder finish, it can become brittle and crack on a surface that may expand and contract when temperatures change. 

Is Latex Paint Waterproof? 

Latex paint is also water resistant. Unlike enamel paint, latex paint dries with some give and flexibility, making it another option for exterior use.

The Enamel Vs. Latex Paint Guide Conclusion 

There is a time and a place for both enamel and latex paints. Determining what type of finish or sheen is best for your project will ultimately make your

decision easy. Go with latex paint when a matte or eggshell finish is desired or enamel paint when a satin or high gloss finish seems appropriate. If you’re looking for a respected residential or commercial painting contractor in the Boise area, get in touch with Boise Home Painting. We are a family-owned business that has years of experience painting throughout the entire Treasure Valley. Both interior and exterior painting are big jobs to take on. Why not turn it over to the professionals who will guarantee their work? Give our office a call today!

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How Long Should you Wait Between Coats of Paint?

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Categories interior painting

How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets? 

Cost To Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Giving your cabinets a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to give your kitchen a fresh new look. So how much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets? Repainting your cabinets will be a much less expensive project than resurfacing or replacing them. In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of painting your cabinets as a DIY compared to hiring a professional as well as ways to save you money in both instances.

If you live in the Boise area and need a professional painter to paint your kitchen cabinets, we’ll give you a free quote! We serve the entire area including Meridian, Boise, Eagle, and Nampa!

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Boise Cabinet Painting

How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets? 

The cost to repaint your kitchen cabinets may be less expensive than you think. On average, you can expect to pay somewhere between $400-$1300 depending on the quality of paint and the size and layout of your kitchen. This cost is mainly for labor but also includes the paint and other supplies. The national average is roughly $750 per kitchen. Because having your kitchen cabinets painted won’t break the bank, it remains one of the most popular kitchen renovations to up the value of your home.

What Goes Into Cabinet Painting 

There’s a fair amount of prep work that goes into painting your kitchen cabinets if you are attempting to do it yourself. It will pay off in the long run if you take the time beforehand to gather all the necessary materials and give yourself plenty of time. Plan on several days to complete the project. Always wear the appropriate safety gear and remember to open your windows for proper ventilation. 

Step 1. Determine the Cabinet’s Condition 

Surfaces that are already painted can be painted again but only if the existing paint is in good condition. If not, the old paint will need to be removed. This may require stripping products and some extra sanding to remove the old paint completely. 

While assessing the condition of your cabinets, you may decide that some doors need to be completely replaced rather than repainted. You’ll need different supplies and materials depending on what prep work your cabinets need. 

Step 2. Remove Dust and Grease 

Before applying any primer or paint, it’s important to make sure your cabinets have been thoroughly wiped down to remove all grease, dust, and dirt that has built up.

Step 3. Remove the Cabinet Doors 

Your next step will be to remove the doors, drawers, and hardware. It’s a good idea to label each piece with painter’s tape to eliminate guesswork when it comes time to put everything back together. Place the hardware in plastic bags and label where they go as well. 

Because there will be sanding taking place during the process, you’ll want to empty your cabinets at this time. This way you won’t have to wash every dish after your project is completed. 

Step 4. Prep and Sand 

Use drop cloths to cover your countertops, appliances, and any other areas you want to protect from dust and paint. Use painter’s tape to protect areas on the wall along the edge of your cabinets. Next, sand all cabinet surfaces with a medium-grit sanding block. A scuffed-up surface will help your primer and paint adhere much more effectively. Use a piece of folded sandpaper to get in the nooks and crannies and corners of your cabinets. Wipe down all cabinet surfaces thoroughly to ensure no fine dust particles remain. 

Step 5. Prime 

Primer isn’t always necessary. However, in this case, we feel priming is an important part of the process. Primer not only covers imperfections but also provides the best surface for paint to adhere to. Allow plenty of time for the primer to dry before moving on to painting. 

Step 6. Paint 

When applying paint to your kitchen cabinets, you can either use a roller or a brush. If you’re a little more advanced and have access to one, a paint sprayer is also an excellent option. Start by painting your cabinet frames, then the backs and fronts. 

Step 7. Apply a Second Coat 

After allowing several hours for your first coat to dry, we recommend applying a second coat. It will definitely take more time but is well worth it for the extra coverage and protection it provides. 

Step 8. Reassemble Kitchen Cabinets 

Once you’re certain your cabinet surfaces are completely cured, you can reassemble the doors to the frame as well as replacing your hardware.

Do I Need to Prime Before Painting? 

How to Calculate the Cost of Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets?

We mentioned that several factors go into figuring out the cost of repainting the cabinets in your specific kitchen. Let’s discuss the most common factors in detail: 

  • Paint Quality 

While there are a variety of paints designed specifically for kitchen cabinets, any high-quality paint should work. You’ll want to be sure to go with acrylic paint and avoid vinyl. Because kitchen cabinets need to be frequently wiped down, they do best with acrylic latex-based paint because of its durability. The higher quality your paint, the more expensive your cost will be. 

  • Painting Supplies Needed 

Deciding which painting method you want to use will play into your overall cost of the project because it will determine what tools you need to purchase. Spraying is an efficient method that gets the job 

done fast but may not be a tool you have on hand. Rollers and brushes are less expensive and are great for those hard to get into areas. Remember that whichever method you go with, you’ll need to purchase the primer, paint, drop-clothes, tape, paint pans, sandpaper, etc. These supplies add up to around $250-$550. When you hire a professional, they already have these materials. 

  • Kitchen Size 

Obviously, the fewer cabinets you have, the less expensive your job will be. So if you know you have a small kitchen, expect to pay less as opposed to a kitchen with larger square footage. 

  • Cabinet Surface Area 

If you have standard-size cabinets, a painting contractor may quote you a certain price per cabinet piece such as a drawer or door. However, they may charge you more if your cabinets have a larger surface area. It will commonly cost you more if your kitchen is difficult to maneuver in or has an excessive amount of corners. 

  • Labor Cost 

Labor costs will be a substantial amount of your cost. Depending on where you live, painting contractors may charge between $25-$50 per hour while others charge a base rate after calculating the total linear feet of your cabinets.

Cost to DIY and Cost to Hire a Professional 

DIY painting projects usually seem doable and typically save you a substantial amount of money. But it’s important to keep in mind that painting experts know the ins and outs of their trade and have the skills to do the job right. 

The bulk of your costs for a DIY project will come from purchasing paint and primer along with other painting supplies. A high-quality paint will run you about $55 per gallon. One gallon will generally cover 12 cabinet surfaces. To achieve the most professional look you can, you’ll want to purchase a quality primer as well. These two products combined will run you between $13 to $15 per cabinet surface. 

We know from experience that many homeowners attempt to paint their kitchen cabinets themselves and regret the time and money they put into it. They aren’t satisfied with the finished product. 

Repainting your cabinets is also a pretty big undertaking and will consume a few days of your time. Remember that time is money. Sometimes paying more to ensure you will love the end result while freeing up time for you to accomplish other things is simply the best way to go. 

A team of professionals will mean your kitchen is disrupted for a shorter period of time, will help protect the rest of your kitchen, and they will know the best paint or stain for your specific cabinets. 

Why You Should Get Your Kitchen Cabinets Repainted

We’ve already mentioned a few of the reasons why people might repaint their kitchen cabinets. However, below are the three main reasons:

  • Cost-effective renovation method 
  • Adds value to your home 
  • Updates and refreshes your style 

How to Save Money Painting Your Cabinets 

If you feel that hiring a professional painter is the best way to go but are worried it will cost too much, we have some helpful tips to save you money: 

  • Watch for deals or discounts offered by your local painting companies. 
  • Remove your cabinet drawers, door, and hardware by yourself. This will save you money on labor costs and is very simple to do.
  • Depending on the condition of your cabinets, you may be able to get away with using a paint that already has the primer included. This saves you from purchasing a separate paint and primer. 
  • You may be able to get a deal from your painting company if you have other rooms in your home that you’ve been wanting to get repainted at the same time. 

Cost to Reface Your Cabinets 

Refacing your cabinets is a great alternative when you want an entirely new look for your kitchen without completely replacing them. But it will certainly cost you more than simply repainting. Refacing cabinets is a common choice for homeowners with laminate or cheaper surfaces in poor condition so they can’t be repainted. 

Conclusion on How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Repainting your kitchen cabinets by yourself will be less expensive than hiring a professional painting contractor. However, painting kitchen cabinets can be quite a tedious task that could leave your kitchen taken apart for days at a time. Hiring a skilled painting company will ensure your cabinets turn out with a smooth and quality finish. The team at Boise Home Painting gets the job done quickly and efficiently and can make your cabinets look new again. No matter where you live in the Treasure Valley, our experienced painters are happy to come out and give you a free quote. Your dream kitchen may be closer than you think.

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Matte Finish vs Satin and Gloss Finish

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Categories Painting

Alkyd Paint: What is it and When to Use It 

What Is Alkyd Paint?

There are all different kinds of paints, used for different kinds of projects. Before you start any painting project, it’s always smart to understand what type of paint will work best. Alkyd paints are created with a pigment, added to a solution of alkyd resin, and a petroleum-based solvent. The pigment gives the paint its color, and the binding agent keeps everything in place after application. Continue reading to learn more about when it’s best to use alkyd paint and when a different type of paint may be a better choice. 

If you live in the Boise area and need help with your interior or exterior painting, contact us to get your free quote! We serve Meridian, Caldwell, and Eagle too!

What is Alkyd Paint? 

Alkyd paint is an enamel finish that has a similar consistency to oil paint. They usually have thinners made from either alcohol or mineral spirits. However, alkyd quick-dry primers and topcoats can’t be thinned with mineral spirits. The type of thinner used will control how the paint flows as well as drying time. 

Is Alkyd Paint Oil Based? 

Even though alkyd paint is often referred to as oil-based, it doesn’t actually contain oil or behave much like an oil-based paint either. Because it is composed of chemical binders and thinners like oil paint, people often get confused. In alkyd paint, the binder is usually some type of synthetic resin.

What is Alkyd Paint Used For? 

Because the binding agent in alkyd paint is a strong resin, it can be costly and slightly toxic. For these reasons, it typically isn’t used for interior walls, with the exception of high-traffic areas such as hallways and bathrooms. Alkyd primers or paints are commonly used to coat metal and wood as well as doors, trim, and cabinets. 

When Not to Use Alkyd Paints 

Alkyd paints are certainly not considered the most versatile paints. Latex paints are hands down the most popular paint among professionals and homeowners alike. Alkyd paint is more toxic for the environment than water-based paints and can be more complicated to apply as it has a tendency to splatter easily. 

When Professionals Use Alkyd Paint 

Professional painters often turn to alkyd paints because they help level out uneven surfaces, hide roller or brush marks, and are more durable than other paints. Alkyd paints are most commonly used on commercial wall covering, trim, furniture, cabinets, and floors. The resin binder is also resistant to moisture which makes it a great paint choice for the kitchen. It’s an excellent option for trim and cabinets due to the fact that it holds its sheen much longer than other types of paint. 

Alkyd vs. Oil Paints 

Alkyd paint is known to be tougher than oil-based paint and is commonly found to adhere well to wood and metal. When dry, it hardens to a finish that compares to semi-gloss. When you want a smooth, durable finish, alkyd paints cure to a finish that is unmatched by both latex and oil. 

Alkyd Paint: What is it and When to Use it Conclusion 

Alkyd paint is scuff-resistant, goes on smoothly, and has excellent coverage. On the other hand, it takes longer to dry, requires paint thinner to clean up, and can become brittle once dried. While it makes for a beautiful finish, there are certainly times a latex paint makes more sense. If you’re starting a project and aren’t sure what type of paint is most beneficial or you simply want to turn it over to the professionals, contact Boise Home Painting. Our team of experts is committed to top-quality work and knows what they’re doing. For a high-quality painting job done efficiently, you can count on Boise Home Painting.

 

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Categories Exterior Painting

How to Paint a Porch: The Step by Step Guide 

How To Paint A Porch

Most people don’t know the proper way to paint a porch. After all, it isn’t a space you commonly paint such as your bathroom or living room. It can often seem like a very tedious task, but knowing what steps to follow, along with the best paint for your job, can make for a simple project with results you can be proud of. 

If you live in the Boise area and need help with your exterior home painting or porch painting, we’ll give you a free quote! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle.

How to Paint a Porch 

When gearing up to paint your porch, there are some simple steps to follow to get started: 

  1. Remove Everything From Your Porch 

Your very first step should be to remove everything from your porch. This would include any furniture as well as decorations on your floor. Be sure to cover any items you don’t want to be painted but can’t remove, with a drop cloth for paint protection. 

  1. Thoroughly Clean the Area 

Once everything is removed, you’ll want to give your porch a good cleaning. Start by sweeping away any cobwebs or debris. You’ll need a smooth, clean surface before painting for the best results. Next, hose down the area, allowing plenty of time to dry before applying any paint. 

If you have a wooden porch, you’ll want to sweep away all dirt, paying special attention to cleaning between the cracks and crevices of the planks. 

  1. Apply Primer 

Once your porch is clean, it’s a good idea to prime before you start painting. If you’re working with a wood surface, apply two coats of primer with a roller. Allow at least 8 hours to dry. 

For concrete porches, apply only one coat of primer with a roller on an extension pole and also let dry for at least 8 hours. 

  1. Pick a Paint Color

Once you decide which color to go with, be sure to choose an exterior, porch-specific paint that is designed to withstand the wear and tear of foot traffic and can handle the outdoor elements. 

How to Paint a Wooden Porch 

If your porch has a wooden surface, clean and spray it down completely then give it at least 24 hours to dry. Once you’re certain the surface is dry, use a sander to help remove any existing paint. Remember to wear protective eyewear and a mask during sanding. After you’ve finished sanding, sweep away any residual dust from the surface. 

Next comes taping. Use high-quality painters tape to ensure your new paint doesn’t get onto the siding or trim of your home. Now that you have all your edges taped off, it’s time to apply an exterior primer. Pay attention to any debris the wind may blow into your fresh primers so it doesn’t stick to the primer as it dries. Depending on the outside temperature, you’ll need to let your primer dry from 2-8 hours before moving on. 

Now you can apply your paint of choice. Allow around 8 hours to dry before applying a second coat. 

How to Paint a Concrete Porch 

For a concrete porch you’ll still start with cleaning but you’ll want to use concrete chemicals for the best results. Safety needs to be a big concern during this part of the process so wear gloves and a mask for protection. After you’ve thoroughly scrubbed the concrete down with a scrub brush, spray with a hose or pressure washer and let it completely dry. This generally takes around 24 hours but will obviously dry faster on warmer days. 

Tape off any areas you don’t want paint to touch then start applying a concrete primer. After your primer has had a chance to dry, apply your paint of choice. Make sure you go with a concrete exterior paint. Exterior paints are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and general activity. When finished, allow at least 24 hours for your paint to dry. 

Best Paint for Porches 

When painting a porch floor, you’ll want to choose a porch or deck paint that is designed for your specific porch surface. Concrete porches do well with low-luster acrylic latex paints. This paint is excellent at preventing scuffing, bubbling, cracking, and fading, and hides all those little imperfections. It’s also durable and stain resistant. For a wooden porch, we recommend Premium Advanced Deckover by Behr. It comes in dozens of colors and makes your wood splinter-proof. It may cost a little more but the fact that it’s mildew-resistant and long-lasting makes it well worth your money. Also, be sure to choose an exterior paint specifically made for horizontal surfaces rather than vertical ones for walls and trim. 

Cost to Paint a Porch 

Obviously, the size of your porch and the quality of paint you choose will play a large part in figuring out how much painting your porch will cost. On average, you can expect to pay around $2-$5 per square foot. Porches are usually around 150 square feet in size with a typical cost running around $525. Take the time to accurately measure your porch before purchasing paint so you’ll have a good idea of what you’ll be spending. 

Paint Ideas for Porches 

Because your porch is one of the first things people see when they pull up to your home, it can have a profound overall impact on its appearance. With that said, if your porch is looking run-down and dingy, it puts a negative spin on your curb appeal. And while your front porch can give a powerful first impression, don’t forget about your back porch. A back porch is an extension of your home as well as a place to create memories with friends and family. 

We’ve compiled a few of our favorite porch painting ideas that can add personality and style to the entryway of your home:

  • Go with a Contrasting Paint Color 

Painting your porch a contrasting color from the rest of your home is an excellent way to highlight this unique feature. The color you choose for your porch doesn’t need to match that of your house but needs to be a nice compliment. 

  • Have fun with Patterns 

A bold or playful pattern can be an attention-grabbing asset to any porch. From your classic checkerboard diamonds to stripes or stamped concrete, a pattern can dress up your porch with a fun and inviting element of style. Black and white will always be a popular duo. However, neutral or earthy tones of blue, gray, tan, and brown will always pair well with rock pillars or dark wood doors. 

  • Look to your Landscaping 

Don’t forget that your landscaping is a natural way to compliment your porch. You can draw in the bold floral colors of blossoms to enhance your porch’s beauty or keep a crisp and clean look while contrasting your white porch against crisp green foliage. 

How to Paint a Porch Conclusion 

Painting your porch isn’t a complicated process. Follow the steps focused on above and you’ll be thrilled with the results of your labors. However, if you prefer to leave your porch painting to the professionals, contact Boise Home Painting. Our skilled team of painters has years of experience throughout the entire Treasure Valley. We pay attention to the details and only use the best quality products to ensure our customers are more than satisfied with the finished product. 

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Categories Painting

Sanding Between Coats of Paint: Should You Do It?

When Should You Sand Between Coats of Paint?

There are several factors that will determine if sanding between coats of paint is necessary for your DIY project. Where and what you are painting as well as what kind of paint you are painting with are all factors that will determine if sanding between coats will be beneficial. The good news is, you generally won’t harm anything by taking the extra time to sand. However, with time being a precious commodity, you might not want to throw in that added step unless it will make a noticeable difference in your finished product.

When You Should Sand Between Coats of Paint

The proper amount of sanding can make all the difference in the outcome of your painting project. If the surface you’re painting has peeling or bubbling paint, you’ll most certainly want to sand it down before applying your first coat.

 Sanding serves multiple purposes, such as creating a slightly rough surface which helps your paint adhere better as well as removing any old paint. Taking the extra time to sand when necessary could save you time in the long run. By not sanding, you may end up wasting more time in an effort to correct your mistakes later. But when it comes to sanding between coats, there are some important things to consider because every project is unique.

  • What Type of Paint You’re Using

What type of paint you choose to work with will ultimately be the biggest factor in determining if you need to sand between coats. Some paints adhere extremely well to certain surfaces while others need a rough or scuffed-up area for the best application.

 For example, when working with bathroom trim or kitchen cabinets with semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes, you’ll most definitely need to sand between coats. This is because typically, most paint won’t adhere to a glossy surface. On the other hand, if you’ve already painted your living room with a matte or eggshell finish paint, after adequate drying time, you’re safe to apply a second coat with no sanding at all in between. 

Opting to work with cheap paint is also another factor to consider. Lower-quality paints have more of a tendency to drip, run, bubble, and leave behind brush strokes far more than paints that are of higher quality. You really do get what you pay for. However, sanding between coats can cover up a myriad of imperfections as well as help your paint adhere better. 

  • Where You’re Painting

Sanding can be tedious and messy but well worth it in the end. It can help you achieve the silky-smooth finish we all desire. As a general rule, it isn’t necessary to sand between coats when painting drywall interior projects. Minor imperfections on your wall or tiny bits of debris from your roller won’t be noticeable against a slightly textured wall. However, areas with bright lighting that will spotlight your walls or cabinets are prime candidates for that extra dose of sanding.

  • How Long the Project Will Take

Properly sanding between coats can be a fairly quick addition to your project or can add quite a bit of time depending on the kind of surface you’re painting. A smooth surface will require you to thoroughly sand the entire wall which could take a considerable amount of time. In comparison, sanding a textured area may mean nothing more than sanding down a few areas where you see blemishes or imperfections. 

It’s also important to take into account for proper drying times between coats. You need to allow for a minimum of 24 hours of drying time between coats which could significantly postpone the completion of your project for a few days. If you have the time to sand between coats, it’s probably a good idea. But if you simply need the project completed on a deadline, you may have to forego the extra sanding and decide if the quality of your project or your time constraints are more important.

  • Tools You’ll Need

Make sure you select the sandpaper with the proper grit for your project. Generally, 180-220 grit is a good choice for sanding between coats. These extra fine grits do a great job on most interior walls. Grits of 240 and higher are best suited for projects where polishing is involved. 

Remember that after you’ve finished sanding between coats, you’ll need to wipe down the surface with a rag to completely remove the fine dust left behind. If much dust has settled on the surface, your second coat won’t adhere correctly. 

When You Should Not Sand Between Coats of Paint

There are a few instances when we recommend NOT sanding between coats of paint. Sanding between coats of touch-up paint, primer coats, or clearcoat can often leave you in a bind and unnecessary work. Your basecoat may feel dry but could potentially still be too soft to sand down. No one wants to sand the entire finish down and start over. 

Once you’ve completed your last coat of primer, you should go ahead and sand before applying your first coat of base color. However, there is no reason at all to sand between coats of primer. It will only add more work to your plate with no visible benefits. 

Sanding Between Coats of Paint Conclusion

While sanding between coats of paint is usually of benefit, it’s a good idea to evaluate your circumstances and consider what kind of paint you’re using and the surface you’re working on to help make your decision. If you have a painting project that you want to turn over to the professionals at a low cost to you, call Boise Home Painting. We are a local business that can provide you with the experience and skills you deserve. Whether your project is large or small, we bring passion and quality to every job we take. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Click here to schedule your free estimate.

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