Categories Painting

What Is The Best Deck Paint?

Best Deck Paint

A fresh coat of paint is always the most cost-effective way of making something look new again. But when it comes to updating your deck, how do you know what’s the best deck paint to use? In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to repaint your deck while also sharing with you what we have discovered to be the best paint and stain for your deck. We’ve evaluated several deck paints on the market and ranked them according to ease of application, cleanup, sheen, and durability. So, whether you want to go with a traditional deck color or want your deck to be a little more bold and unique, we’re here to ensure you choose the best deck paint for your project. 

List of Best Deck Paint and Stain 

If you’re lucky enough to have a deck, you’ll want to take proper care of it to keep it looking beautiful for seasonal gatherings or family time. For something this important, you don’t just want to pick up the first paint or stain you spot at the store. We’ve done our homework and have compiled a list of the very best deck paint and stains out there: 

  • Best Color Selection Deck Paint

Behr Premium Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Floor Paint

This deck paint is ideal for exterior applications such as patios, porches, basements, and decks. It’s resistant to fading, scuffing, peeling, cracking, and mildew. The best part is, it’s available in custom color matching! 

  • Best Paint for Wood Deck Railing

Montage Signature Eco-Friendly Paint

Offering superior coverage and protection, this paint is perfect for your specialty finishes. Extremely versatile, Montage Signature is the #1 paint choice for all your needs. 

  • Best Deck Stain

Sikkens Transparent Matte Natural OIl-Based Stain

You’ll get amazing and long-lasting results with this one-coat application stain. It penetrates deep into the wood to protect against the Boise summer heat and frigid winter temperatures. You’ll love how it allows the natural grain of your deck or furniture to shine through. It’s a bit pricey but makes up for it in longevity.

  • Best Durable Deck Paint

Behr Premium Advanced Deckover

If you’re looking for durability, this paint is an excellent choice. It comes in a variety of color options, is applied easily, and holds up extremely well against the elements. It’s a thicker consistency of paint which means it will take longer to dry. You can use this paint on composite wood, wood, and concrete. 

  • Best Paint For Old Wood

Kilz Latex Floor Paint L573611

Appropriate for all previously primed or painted surfaces including wood and masonry, this paint has a low-luster finish that applies smoothly and evenly. It also can be used on trim, siding, and trellises. You’ll appreciate that it’s resistant to fading, scuffing, cracking, and peeling. 

Modern Deck Paint Colors 

Updating the color of your deck won’t only give it new style but can also give it extended life. Stain and paint protect your wood from rotting while helping it stay clean and smooth. We’ve compiled a list of the perfect colors to enhance your outdoor space and give your deck a makeover: 

  • Black 

When your goal is to add a stark contrast between your patio furniture or your home’s exterior paint color, black is the perfect choice. A solid acrylic black deck stain will completely cover any previous deck stain that remains. This will also add an extra layer of protection from scuffing, water damage, and the sun. 

  • Grey 

Tones of gray seem to be all the rage when it comes to exterior paint color. This holds true for decks and patios as well. A muted gray deck paint will refresh your outdoor space to a stylish look your friends and family will enjoy for years to come on those beautiful Boise evenings. 

  • Whitewash 

If you want to showcase the texture and grain of your deck, whitewashing is an option you should consider. Unlike solid stains or paints, whitewashing leaves portions of wood exposed, showing the imperfections and personality of your deck. 

  • Slate Grey 

Slate is a dark enough tone to show a nice contrast between your deck furniture and landscaping while not being as stark as black. It lends to a trendy, modern vibe, especially when paired with a light oak railing.

  • Red 

Shades of dark, brick red are perfect for a colonial feel and always add personality to your backyard. Red especially pops when paired with a bright white deck paint. 

  • Redwood 

We often think of redwood deck stains when picturing a traditional outdoor deck. This color goes well with the surrounding greenery of your landscaping as well as nearly any exterior home paint color. 

  • Two-Tone 

A deck with a two-tone pattern is visually appealing and unique. Try using one color as a border or customize a design that works for your space. 

  • Clear 

If you’re hoping to preserve the natural look of your wood deck, a clear deck stain is for you. However, clear stain isn’t a good idea if your deck was previously painted and your old stain is lingering. 

Picking a Deck Paint 

It’s quite possible that the easiest part of painting a deck is the application process. Choosing the right paint or stain can prove to be a very difficult part of the project. With so many different deck paints on the market, it can be overwhelming for anyone. 

Keep in mind how important it is to purchase an exterior paint that’s specifically created for decks and horizontal surfaces. Regular house paints are made to cover vertical surfaces where water and rain won’t sit. Decking is different and will accommodate puddles of water. Be certain the label on the paint you choose specifies that it can be used on horizontal surfaces.

Best Deck Paint Brands 

When you’re in the market for deck paint for an upcoming home improvement project, it’s always smart to select a brand you can trust. The best deck paints can stand up to harsh and extreme weather conditions. Wind, rain, and extreme fluctuation in heat can really do a number on your deck. Below is a list of the top brands we recommend because of their reputation for consistent high-quality results: 

1. Sherwin Williams

If you’ve ever used Sherwin Williams paint after using a different paint brand, you know why it’s rated number one in customer satisfaction for interior and exterior paints. They offer a large variety of affordable outdoor paints in different colors and sheens. 

2. Kilz 

Kilz has been providing Americans with quality primer and painting products for over four decades. They offer a product that combines both primer and paint in one to give you beautiful and effective results while cutting your application time in half. 

3. Benjamin Moore

The name Benjamin Moore has always been associated with quality paints and stains, providing both durability and style when spending time with loved ones outdoors. 

4. Behr 

Behr makes highly rated, award-winning paints, stains, and more that deliver superior value at every price point. With Behr, everyone can transform their space with the colors they love. 

5. Rust-Oleum 

Rust-Oleum is a reputable company that specializes in outdoor protective paints. Their products create long-lasting results for both residential and commercial customers alike. 

Best Places to Buy Deck Paint in Boise 

There are several paint supply stores in the Treasure Valley that offer all the tools you would need for painting a deck. However, we’re giving you a list of our top three paint store choices: 

–Sherwin Williams 

–Home Depot 

–Rodda Paint Store 

Most of these paint stores offer several locations for your convenience.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need to Paint Your Deck 

Before you start painting your deck, you’ll need to measure it by multiplying the length by the width. This will help you determine how much paint you’ll need to buy. If you already have paint on hand, check that it hasn’t dried out and is still usable. Here are the materials we recommend you have on hand: 

  1. Exterior paint formulated for decks, patios, and porches 2. Multi-surface primer and sealer 
  2. Paintbrush 
  3. Roller 
  4. Pressure washer 
  5. Deck cleaner 
  6. Extension pole 
  7. Sponge 
  8. 5-gallon bucket 

Deck Paint Drying Time 

As a general rule of thumb, your paint or stain should be dry within a 1-2 hour timeframe. We don’t recommend walking on it though for at least 5-6 hours. But remember that weather conditions can greatly affect drying time.

If you’re painting on a day with high humidity and cooler temperatures, you will need to wait longer for proper curing. 

How Does Weather Affect Paint? 

Humidity and temperature can actually have quite an effect on exterior paint. Boise is an area where you can experience some pretty intense temperature fluctuations. When the temp outside goes from around 100 degrees in the summer to 10 degrees in the winter, your paint can expand in the heat and contract in the cold. As the surface underneath expands and contracts, your paint will crack and peel. 

Ultraviolet light from the hot Boise sun can also do a number on your exterior paint. When it comes to siding, your patio, or patio furniture, areas with warmer climates deal with paint prematurely fading. Making sure you protect your deck and exterior siding with paint specifically formulated for the outdoors will prolong the life of your paint job. 

Should You Use Paint vs. Stain? 

The number one determining factor when it comes to going with paint or stain will generally be preference. Which look do you prefer more? However, paint is thicker and tends to be more durable. It helps to note that stains are designed for use on wood surfaces that are bare or haven’t been treated. While stain does have color, it’s designed to allow the natural wood grain to show through. Most deck stains also include a sealer product that protects the wood from exposure to the elements. 

Paint will conceal the wood grain which means it will also hide any blemishes or damage points in your deck. If you’ve had to replace boards in your deck that don’t match the others, the paint will restore a more uniform look.

If however, your deck is prone to humidity you will have to think about preventing mold and mildew. If this is the case, stain will be your best option. The stain will penetrate your deck wood to form a solid coating on top, unlike paint. While Boise doesn’t receive nearly the amounts of rain as other regions of the US, it can still rain a fair amount in the spring and fall. Consider what look you’re going for, your climate, as well as the current state of your deck to determine if paint or stain is right for you.

How to Paint a Deck 

Once you’ve picked your deck paint or stain, here are the steps to successfully painting a deck along with some helpful tips:

  1. Wash Down the Deck 

Your deck must be completely clean before applying paint or stain. Even if your deck is new, it still needs to be thoroughly scrubbed and rinsed down as your first step. You can find several options for deck cleaning products at your local hardware store. Choose an all-purpose cleaner that will remove dirt, grime, and debris. If mold or mildew is a problem on your existing deck, purchase a cleaner containing mildewcide before painting or staining. You may be tempted to use a power washer to aid in the cleaning process, However, the high pressure may actually damage the wood by digging chunks out of it. A garden hose with a jet nozzle works well to get the job done without being so abrasive. 

  1. Sand and Scrape the Deck 

Any deck paint that is peeling or bubbling will need to be removed before you can start repainting. Any rough or jagged areas need to be sanded until smooth. Using a wire brush, use large strokes to loosen any dislodged paint. The wire brush should make quick work of most loose paint but you’ll need to follow up with a paint scraper. A flat scraper that resembles a putty knife will be the best tool to remove any remaining loose paint. Be careful not to push the scraper too hard and gauge the surface. A pulling motion will be more effective and less destructive. 

You may be tempted at this point to skip the important step of sanding. But scraping rarely gets rid of all existing deck paint. In order to have a cohesive look and feel, sanding is necessary to smooth out the edges between the bare wood and any remaining paint. 

  1. Apply Paint or Stain to the Deck

Before popping open your chosen paint or stain, tape off any areas of your home or garage you don’t want painted. We recommend using a roller with an extension pole for convenient painting while standing up. It’s also handy to have some various sizes of paintbrushes around for those spots a roller can’t get too. 

Do your best to paint every angle of your decking. The more surface you can cover, the more it’s protected. Pay special attention to paint the underside of your decking along with all reachable sides. Sealing your deck will prevent mold and mildew from growing and add to its longevity.

Can you Paint Composite Decking? 

Composite decking, which is the same as Trex decking, doesn’t accept paint naturally like a real wood deck. It’s made of plastic film that when mixed with wood fibers, creates a resilient material more durable than decking that is 100% plastic. 

If you’re going to paint or stain composite decking, stain will work better than paint but might not last as long. Since paint and stain won’t adhere as easily to composite decking, you’ll need to scuff up its surface before application. Once the composite has been roughed up by sandpaper, paint or stain will adhere much better with a gritty surface to grip onto.

How to Remove Decking Paint? 

Stripping your deck of paint can be a messy job. There are several different stripping products on the market you can use. These gel-like substances when applied to your decking, will soften the existing stain or paint. Ideally, the stripping product will be rinsed away and take the original coating with it. The problem is that the stripping agent will likely need to be reapplied over stubborn areas and there will be scraping and scrubbing involved. Some strippers are meant to work on stain while others will work for paint or stain. If you’re going to take on this project, choose the stripper that best fits your needs. 

Can You Stain Over Paint? 

Yes, you can stain over paint but we don’t recommend it for a project as large as a deck. Stain over paint is more suitable for smaller projects like refinishing furniture or woodworking. Depending on the color of the paint and the stain you’re working with, the result will be a lacquered look. In most instances, if your deck was originally coated with paint, we recommend repainting instead of applying stain. 

The Best Deck Paint in 2022 Conclusion 

A fresh coat of paint is a great way to update your deck while giving it added protection at the same time. But before you jump in, be certain you’re choosing the best paint or stain to ensure long-term results. If you live in the Treasure Valley and have further questions about deck painting, interior, or exterior painting, contact Boise Home Painting. Our team of professionals will be happy to answer any questions or give you a free estimate for your current project. Click here to get your free estimate!

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Categories Painting

Do I Need to Prime Before Painting? 

Do I Need to Prime Before Painting?

When it comes to painting your walls, homeowners often wonder, “do I need to prime before painting?” Back in the day, the answer was almost always, “yes.” But, a lot has changed over the years and using a primer isn’t always as necessary as it once was. The painting products available on the market today are much more durable and effective than the paints available just a few decades ago. So, it’s a good idea to decide on a case-by-case basis whether or not primer will be useful. Certain projects dealing with certain materials will benefit from primer while in other situations, priming may be a waste of your time and money. 

How to prime a wall? 

Priming a wall is really not much different than painting it. The difference is that you’re using primer as your base layer. Here are some simple step, showing how to prime a wall: 

  1. Prepare the space

As with any painting project, preparation is key to protecting the surrounding area. Move furniture out of the room and away from walls. Cover it with cloth or plastic to ensure no unwanted paint stains. You can use drop cloths to cover all flooring as well. 

Before any primer or paint is applied, your walls need to be wiped down and cleared of any residue or dirt. This is also the best time to putty any small holes or dents you would like to cover up. Allow ample time for the putty to dry, then lightly sand down those target areas. Place quality painter’s tape around areas you don’t want to be primed. Taping ensures a clean edge around your walls and baseboards 

  1. Choose the paint primer

It’s extremely important that you pick the right primer for your specific job because it determines how your finished paint job will look. You will need to decide if you’re going to use oi or latex primers. A latex-based primer is more flexible, easier to apply, and resists cracking and peeling. It’s also very easy to clean. Oil-based primer penetrates the wood deeply and can prevent tannin in the wood from coming to the surface. If you’re unsure which is best, ask the home improvement store staff for guidance when purchasing your primer. 

  1. Apply the primer 

Before you bust open your new can of primer, shake it up thoroughly so the chemicals are mixed properly. Pour primer into a tray. Use a paintbrush to cut in all the edges in your room first. Next, use a roller to fill in the open spaces. Make sure to overlap your roller strokes with your brush stroke edging for the most consistent results. Keep in mind that this coat of primer will need time to properly dry before applying paint.

Can you paint over drywall? 

You cannot paint directly over drywall. You will need to mud and primer it before applying any paint. The primer ensures that the paint stays on and isn’t affected by temperature changes in the surrounding environment.

How to paint drywall 

Step 1. Inspect your drywall for any dents or gauges. If you find any, fill them in with drywall or your preferred paste product. 

Step 2. Sand your drywall 

Step 3. Remove any and all dust left behind from the sanding step. Run a black towel over the wall as an indicator if there is still dest that needs to be wiped away. 

Step 4. Wash your drywall with a solution of 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of water. Soak a sponge in the solution and wipe down your drywall. If the vinegar/water solution turns dark before you’re finished, repeat the process to guarantee it’s spotless. 

Step 5. Take a high-powered fan and turn it directly onto the washed drywall. Be certain it’s completely dry before painting. Once you’ve completed all 5 steps, you may begin painting your drywall. 

Do you have to prime a wall before painting? 

Since not all jobs require primer, it’s important to know what factors contribute to deciding to use it or not. 

  • When painting over a glossy surface

Paint has a really difficult time adhering to glossy surfaces. If your wall has a coating of high gloss or enamel paint or has been shellacked, you’re going to need a primer. 

Along with primer, a quick scuffing or sanding of your surface will be very beneficial. Doing this will ensure your walls have enough texture, giving both paint and primer the best chance of sticking properly. 

  • When your walls have stains or odor 

If you have noticeable stains on your walls, they can’t always be concealed with just a coat of paint. Grease spots or crayon scribbles will likely show through new paint, especially if it’s a lighter shade. This also goes for any surface blemishes. 

It’s worth mentioning that it’s never a good idea to use primer to cover up mold or mildew stains on your walls. The mold will only grow and will resurface in the future. In this case, be certain to identify the source of the mildew and remove it, before applying any primer or paint. 

Pet odor or cigarette smoke smells have a tendency to settle in and linger on your walls. While paint alone won’t mask the smell for long, certain primers are available that can permanently block the unwanted smells for good. 

  • Color contrast from dark to light 

When you really want to transform a room from dark to light, taking the time to apply a primer will make all the difference. Picture yourself trying to apply light blue paint on top of a dark green coat. Primer is definitely necessary when making a dark to light transition. In some instances, when going from a dark to light paint, you may need a tinted primer to enhance the true color of the lighter tone. 

  • When the surface is porous 

If you’re working with a porous surface such as untreated or unstained wood, as well as drywall, it’s always smart to start with a primer. A porous surface will easily absorb moisture, stains, odors, or oil. Freshly installed drywall is highly porous in two ways: the dried joint compound covering the seams and its bare facing paper. If you don’t apply a coat of primer first, these porous materials will literally soak up and absorb your paint right into them.

  • When painting over plastic or metal 

There are primers on the market today that are made specifically for metal. They are designed to protect against rust and will also give a firm base foundation for any future coats of paint. You’ll definitely want a primer designed for plastic coverage as well. For best results, apply the primer in even amounts to a thoroughly sanded, clean and dry plastic surface. 

  • If you have wallpaper 

Wallpaper can leave some pretty severe war wounds from its removal process. So, whether you’re attempting to cover up removal blemishes or simply want to cover up your existing wallpaper, a primer will be necessary. 

Should you prime drywall patches before painting? 

If you’ve patched holes and done repairs on your drywall, no doubt there will be various patches of joint compound or paste on the surface. For very small holes or minor repairs, a separate primer isn’t necessary. You can simply use regular paint to paint over the patches. For large areas, it may be beneficial to apply a primer before the paint. 

Do I Need To Prime Before Painting Conclusion 

If you’re working on a painting project and have questions of any kind, give Boise Home Painting a call. We understand the value of what it means every time someone chooses us to be their painting contractor. That’s why we use only the highest quality materials and work hard to ensure you’re happy once our project is complete. At Boise Home Painting, we understand professional quality and attention to detail. That makes us some of the best professional house painters in the Treasure Valley including Nampa, Boise, Meridian, and Caldwell!

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Categories Painting

Should you Paint or Install Floors First? 

Should you paint or install floors first?

When getting ready to renovate any room in your home, homeowners often wonder, “should you paint or install floors first?” It’s common for people to assume they should paint before installing floors to prevent paint spills or stains on your new floor covering. It’s one of the most common mistakes made when updating your home. However, the professionals agree that flooring should always be installed before you start painting.

Why should flooring be installed before painting?

There are a lot of steps to installing flooring before the first drop of paint should ever be applied. To avoid more work for yourself or having to pay a professional painter extra, here are a few essential tips to remember: 

1. Removing Flooring is Messy 

Removing and replacing flooring or carpet is messy work. If you paint first, there is a good chance that dust and dirt will end up on your newly painted wall. 

There is also a possibility that your walls and trim may end up damaged during the installation process. Dents, dings, and scuffs will likely occur which means you may have to pay an additional fee for your painter to come back for touch-ups.

2. New Flooring May Be a Different Height 

Another reason to finish the flooring before you paint is that your new flooring may be a different height than the previous one. This could leave a stripe of unpainted baseboard that the old floor covered, but the new one doesn’t. You may have to adjust the height of your baseboards which could be quite a hassle. 

3. Removing and Repainting Trim 

Many times when putting in new hardwood, stone, or tile floors, the baseboards will need to be removed. Once removed, they’ll need some repairs and repainting. Likewise, once reinstalled, the nail holes will need to be filled, sanded, and repainted as well. If you paint the walls before the floors go in, then proceed to put the floor and baseboards in, you’ll need to have the painter return just for the baseboards. 

4. Drop Clothes and Masking 

With the use of painters tape and drop cloths, you’ll be able to completely protect your new flooring after installation. These inexpensive tools are great resources when it comes to keeping the mess to a minimum and avoiding damage. A good professional painting company knows how important this step is. With the proper precautions, you shouldn’t need to worry about spills or scratches.

5. Prepping the Walls 

It’s always a good idea to complete any prep work on your walls before installing the flooring. If you need to patch, sand, caulk or texture, get it done beforehand. If you plan on having epoxy flooring installed, this step will be especially important. 

Do I paint before or after installing epoxy flooring? 

Epoxy resin flooring is becoming very popular. It once was utilized mainly in shops and industrial buildings but has since expanded into residential living spaces, basements, and garages. Epoxy basement flooring still takes priority over painting. Installing this type of flooring is a multi-step project with specific curing times between coats. The finished floor can be easily covered and protected from paint drips or spills. 

Can the Type of Flooring Make a Difference? 

Regardless of what type of flooring you’re having installed, flooring first is still the best method. Types of finished hardwood flooring can simply be installed as is, but unfinished hardwood will need to be sanded and stained. Dust from these projects can settle on tacky paint and stain can easily splatter on a freshly painted wall. If your home improvement project includes renovating existing hardwood floors, it’ll become very apparent that your flooring should come first. 

Should you paint or install floors first conclusion 

If you have an interior or exterior paint job in your future, give Boise Home Painting a call. We understand the value of choosing a painting contractor you can trust. You don’t become the best house painters in Boise by cutting corners. That’s why we use only the highest-quality materials and work hard to ensure you’re happy once the project is complete. We provide our epoxy and painting services to everyone in the Treasure Valley including Meridian and Nampa. Contact us for a free estimate today!

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Categories Painting

Can You Paint Over Polyurethane

Can you paint over polyurethane?

With interior paint trends constantly evolving and changing, people often wonder if you can paint over polyurethane to update to a new look. Polyurethane is the topcoat applied to kitchen cabinets and other wooden furniture to protect it from scratches and scuffs. While you can most certainly paint over polyurethane, you won’t get the best results unless you do the prep work first. Without sanding or applying a primer, any paint applied will end up bubbling or peeling off. There isn’t much worse than putting hours into a project, only to have the paint peel and flake and having to start over from scratch. 

Painting Over Varnish 

So many people are discovering the joys found in refinishing old furniture and cabinets. It definitely requires some elbow grease and time but is a super inexpensive way to decorate or make money on the side. Adding new life and color to a piece can be extremely satisfying, especially when you put your creativity to work. The hardest part of the process is painting over varnish, and getting your new paint to stick properly. Even some furniture that says it’s unfinished, can come with a layer of clear coat on the wood that will need to be addressed. Here are some simple steps to painting over varnish successfully. 

Supplies To Have On Hand 

  • Sandpaper-fine grade 
  • Gloves 
  • Face Mask 
  • Protective Eyewear 
  • Paintbrushes 
  • Oil Based Primer 
  • Oil Based Paint 
  • Wood filler or spackle 
  • Clean, lint-free rags 
  • Trisodium phosphate solution 

How To Paint Over Polyurethane 

  1. Be Safe and Smart 

Many of the products used in this process have strong fumes. Be certain to only apply them in well-ventilated areas or outside if possible. Carefully read the labels on all products before using them. Wear gloves, a mask, and safety goggles during the entire process for your protection. Properly dispose of any rags soaked with primer, paint, or trisodium solution as they may be flammable. 

  1. Clean the Surface 

With your rag, gently clean the surface you’re working on with the trisodium phosphate solution. This will remove all residue such as dirt, grime, or stains from the wood. Let the wood completely dry before proceeding. 

  1. Fill In Any Holes 

If the wood you’re working with has any dents, holes, or cracks, use the wood filler to fill them in completely. Once fully dry, gently sand down the area until flush with the wood. Wipe away any sand particles or remaining debris with a cloth. 

  1. Sand the Surface 

Use fine-grade sandpaper to remove the polyurethane coating from your wood. You don’t need to sand away every bit of the coating, just be consistent. Try not to over sand in some areas and not enough in others. If you don’t sand thoroughly enough, your new paint won’t adhere to the surface of your wood. Sand until the varnished wood is smooth and the wood no longer has a sheen or glossy appearance. After sanding, wipe down your furniture or cabinets with trisodium until all dust is removed. 

  1. Time to Prime 

Applying a primer will give your paint a better surface to stick to. Apply a thin layer of oil-based primer to the wood. Use even strokes to avoid splotches. Allow plenty of time for this coat of primer to dry. The primer is dry when it doesn’t feel tacky to the touch. Add a second coat of primer. Allow this coat to dry overnight for best results. 

  1. Second Sanding 

Sand the primed surface to ensure no brush strokes are visible. This should be a much quicker sanding but a worthwhile step for a smooth, cohesive, finished look. 

  1. Paint the Surface

Using long, careful strokes, apply paint to the surface. Let the first coat dry overnight. We recommend applying a second coat of paint but in some cases, the primer has done such a good job that only one coat is necessary. 

What Paint Will Stick to Polyurethane? 

Both oil-based and acrylic paints are perfect when you need to paint over polyurethane. For a more durable surface, oil-based paint is a good option. One drawback is that it produces very strong-smelling fumes. You can get close to the same results with acrylic paints, minus the fumes and harsh odor. If you live in the Boise area, you can buy the paints you need from Sherwin Williams. That’s where we get all of our paints. 

Can I Paint Over Polyurethane Without Sanding?

If you’re going to attempt to paint over varnish but really don’t want to hassle with the sanding process, there is a product you can use. Deglosser, or liquid sandpaper, is a chemical that will etch the varnish, allowing the paint to stick. Remember to wear the proper eye, hand, and mouth protection anytime you’re working with chemicals. Read the labels carefully for proper instructions and use.

Painting Over Stained Wood 

You can definitely paint over stained wood. It’s basically the same process as painting over varnish or lacquer. If you’re working on an outdoor project, be sure to use paint that is an interior/exterior formula to protect it from the elements. Always take the time to put on two full coats for best results. 

Can You Put Polyurethane Over Paint? 

Because polyurethane is a topcoat that dries clear and hard, it can absolutely be used over paint. It comes in both oil-based and water-based finishes. It can however crack in the sunlight so we don’t recommend it for outdoor use. 

You can use polyurethane to go on top of latex or oil-based paints. It’s important to note that water-based polyurethane dries clear. So if you’re wanting to display the painted surface, it’s your best choice. Oil-based polyurethane tends to yellow over time but dries harder, offering a more protective coating. You’ll have to decide whether you want a more protected surface or a more aesthetically pleasing finish.

Helpful Tips 

  • Before you open your can of polyurethane, don’t shake the can as you might with regular paint. Instead, use a stir stick to mix it thoroughly. This technique keeps the polyurethane free of bubbles that could prove troublesome down the road. 
  • Don’t use a cheap, foam paintbrush. A bristle brush will make your job a whole lot easier and will distribute the paint more evenly across the surface. 
  • Before your final coat dries, run your brush over the surface of the wood to smooth out any bubbles. 
  • You can use a spray gun instead of a brush for a more professional finish. 

Polyurethane Paint Conclusion 

If you still have questions involving any painting projects you’re working on or just simply need an excellent professional painter, give Boise Home Painting a call. When it comes to professional house painters in Boise, we understand the importance of quality and attention to detail. We use only high-quality materials and work tirelessly to ensure you’re happy once the project is complete. Plus, we paint exteriors, kitchen cabinets, interiors, and more! We serve the entire Treasure Valley including Boise, Meridian, Middleton, and Nampa. 

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Matte Finish vs Satin and Gloss Finish

Satin vs Matte vs Gloss Paint

When it comes time to purchase paint, it can seem an overwhelming task because of the different paint finishes that are available. Satin vs. matte, semi-gloss, or flat? How do you know which finish is the more appropriate choice for your project? Paint sheen, or finish, refers to the amount of light the paint reflects from its surface. Paints with no sheen absorb lights and paints with sheen reflect it. Before choosing a paint finish, be sure to consider the type of room you are painting and the durability needed for that space. 

Paint finishes can be divided into two main groups: Flat or matte finish paint vs. semi-gloss and high gloss paints. Flat or matte paints have no sheen because they absorb light. Glossy finishes reflect light and give off a shiny, and also protective sheen. So, let’s do an overview of all the most popular paint finishes to help you know what sheen will work best for you.

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Matte vs. Flat Paint 

Matte and flat paint finishes are the same things. They show little to no sheen when dry. Because they are non-reflective, they are superior when it comes to hiding surface blemishes. If you have nail holes or minor dents you want to conceal, choose a flat paint finish. Matte paints require fewer coats than higher gloss paints and are perfect for areas that require less durability such as dining rooms, bedrooms, and ceilings. Flat paints tend to hold onto dirt and are difficult to clean. Cleaning can actually remove the finish. Avoid using it in kitchens, bathrooms, playrooms, or kids’ rooms.

Eggshell Paint Finish 

When in doubt, eggshell is usually a safe way to go. It fits somewhere between matte and satin when it comes to its finish and reflects more light than matte paint. Extremely popular among homeowners, it’s perfect for your low traffic areas like family rooms, dining rooms, hallways, and entryways. Eggshell provides a low sheen and a smooth texture, just like a real eggshell. 

What is a Satin Finish Paint? 

Satin paint is often known as the most versatile paint for indoor and outdoor walls. It lends a soft, elegant sheen that reflects just the right amount of light. It’s durable enough to withstand mildew while also being more fade-resistant and easier to clean than its more flat counterparts. The difference between matte and satin is that matte offers a more natural appearance with less luster and sheen.

Semi-Gloss Paint 

Semi-gloss paint is more resistant to moisture than other finishes and has a bit more sheen than satin. Semi-gloss is an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim pieces. Its delicate sheen creates a bold and pleasing contrast against a more flat finish. Semi-gloss is easy to keep clean and wipes down more effortlessly than matte paints. While easier to clean, its sheen level makes blemishes and wall imperfections more visible.

High Gloss Paint 

High gloss paint is the shiniest finish and offers the most reflection of all the finishes. They are also the toughest, most durable, and stain-resistant as well. High gloss paint is the easiest to clean which is why they are typically used for doors and cabinets where hands expose them to dirt and grime. High gloss is also often used for trim and molding. 

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How a Paint Finish is Determined 

Paints with glossier finishes, like satin or semi-gloss, are produced using higher levels of resin and lower levels of pigmentation. Paints with a matte or flat finish contain higher levels of pigmentation and lower amounts of resin, making them less shiny. Latex and oil paints alike are available in a variety of sheens. Nearly every sheen and finish can be used in your home, some are just suited for certain spaces better than others. Below are some basic rules to go by when choosing the best paint finish for each room in your home. 

  • Bedrooms 

Adult or spare bedrooms are generally low traffic areas so a flat or matte finish works perfectly well. When painting a child’s bedroom, a satin sheen is typically the best choice because the walls are more likely to be scuffed or need to be cleaned more often. 

  • Bathrooms 

Bathrooms require a stronger finish that is easy to wipe down and keep clean. Satin is more durable than eggshell and is an excellent choice for ceilings and walls. We recommend semi-gloss for any trim work or moldings as it is more moisture resistant.

  • Kitchens 

Kitchens are always in use and in need of constant cleaning. A satin or semi-gloss finish is the best option, standing up to mildew, stains, and dirt. 

  • Ceilings 

Don’t waste your money on expensive paint for your ceilings. Flat or matte paint covers nicely and hides imperfections well. 

  • Hallways 

One of the most popular and widely used paints for hallway walls is eggshell. It provides a low sheen and a smooth finish. Eggshell is easier to clean than a matte finish. 

  • Living Rooms and Family Rooms 

For high-traffic family rooms and living rooms, the best paint finish to use is eggshell or satin. Satin, being a bit more durable, is perfect for family rooms while eggshell is a great fit for living and dining rooms.

  •  Interior Trim 

There is no question that high gloss paint is the best finish to use for interior trim. You definitely want to be using the most durable finish on areas that are easily scuffed, dented and dinged. 

Satin vs Matte and Gloss Finish Conclusion 

When it comes to determining a paint finish, there really is no right or wrong, just better or best. If you’re going to be starting a home painting project soon or have any questions regarding paint sheen and finish, call Boise Home Painting today. We have years of experience in the Treasure Valley with both exterior and interior painting. Painting is our passion and we want to share that passion with you. We serve the entire Boise area including Nampa, Meridian, Middleton, Eagle, and Caldwell. If you live near one of these cities, we can help you with your painting needs. 

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