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Painting

Can You Paint over Lead Paint?

12Sep2022

Can you paint over lead paint? The answer is yes. Whether you’re flipping an older home for a profit or planning to live there, finding the presence of lead in your paint might feel like a major setback.

Luckily, as long as you use the correct type of paint, you can paint over lead paint. This is known as encapsulation. Using a type of paint called an encapsulant, the lead paint is sealed off so that it cannot contaminate your home.

How to Paint over Lead Paint

Can you paint over lead paint? Yes. But how? The answer is that it takes a little more work than a traditional paint job. Make sure you follow these steps when painting over lead-based paint.

Test the paint. If your home was built before 1978, you’ll want to test the paint to determine whether or not lead is present. You can opt for a DIY testing kit, but an analysis from a professional lead testing lab will be more accurate.
If you have lead paint in your home, you’ll want to look at the condition of the paint. As long as the finish of the lead paint is intact, you can use encapsulation to paint over lead-based paint. However, if the lead-based paint is cracked or otherwise in poor condition, you cannot safely encapsulate it. If this is the case, you’ll need to hire a professional to remove the lead-based paint from your home.
Remove all household items and furniture from the room you’re working on.
Seal off the area you’re working on with plastic sheeting to prevent lead-contaminated dust from traveling to other areas of the home.
Wipe down the surface with a wet cloth. Never chip, scrape, or sand lead-based paint.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on your encapsulant to apply the paint. Most of the time, this will mean using a brush, roller, or airless paint sprayer to apply the encapsulant.

Why Lead Paint is Dangerous

Lead is poisonous for humans, particularly children who are still developing. When lead paint is disturbed, it becomes airborne. You might breathe in the lead-laced particles, or it might settle on your furniture. When inhaled or consumed, lead-based paint causes lead poisoning.

Mild symptoms of lead poisoning include nausea, headaches, trouble sleeping, and loss of appetite. Longer-term exposure to lead can lead to severe lead poisoning, which causes memory loss, vomiting, weakness, aggressive behavior, seizures, comas, and confusion.

Precautions to Take

Because of the dangers of lead poisoning, lead-based paint needs to be handled properly. Even if the lead paint is still in good condition, you need to take precautions to stay safe.

Wear protective gear, including a respirator, goggles, gloves, shoe covers, and coveralls.
Never scrape or sand lead paint. This will release lead particles into the air.
Keep children and adults with at-risk health conditions away from the home until the project is complete.
Use a HEPA filter while you work, as well as for a little bit after, to filter out the lead dust that might have been kicked into the air.
Make sure you wash all of your protective gear at the end of each day. Throw away disposable protective gear. Wash your clothing thoroughly. You don’t want to contaminate other parts of the house with lead dust!
Wash your painting tools thoroughly after the project is done. Dispose of all drop cloths and plastic sheets used during the project

Types of Paint to Use

When painting over lead paint, you can’t use typical oil or water-based paint. The toxins from the lead will still seep through typical paints. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a special kind of paint called an encapsulant. Encapsulants are thicker than typical paint and keep the lead protected behind a membrane. Encapsulants are available at just about any paint or hardware store.

There are three types of encapsulants:

Traditional polymers
Epoxy or polyurethane polymers
Cement-like products that contain polymers

If you’re taking on the project yourself, you’ll probably want to stick with a polymer and epoxy-based encapsulant. Cement-like products require mixing that can be tricky for DIYers.

Benefits of Hiring a Painting Company vs DIY

After asking “Can you paint over lead paint?” and finding out that you can, you might be tempted to DIY the project. If you only have one room to worry about or a piece of furniture, painting over the lead-based paint on your own might be just fine. However, hiring a professional painting company to paint over your lead paint comes with many benefits:

Painting companies, like the pros at Boise Home Painting, are trained specifically on how to handle painting over lead-based paint.
A professional painting company can evaluate the condition of your paint to see if it’s eligible for encapsulation.
Professionals have to follow the EPA regulations in the Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule, which means you can be sure the job is done correctly.
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of hiring a painting company overdoing it yourself is peace of mind. Lead paint poses a serious safety risk for all occupants of the home. You want to know that you’re safe in your home.

If you need to encapsulate lead-based paint in your home, you can count on the professionals at Boise Home Painting. We’ll protect your family from the dangers of lead paint and give you peace of mind that’s worth its weight in gold. We serve the entire Boise area with commercial and residential painting including Merdian, Caldwell, and Eagle. Click here to get your free estimate!

Exterior Painting

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood?

27Aug2022

Pressure treated wood is used for numerous outdoor projects. Because it’s been treated with chemicals, people often wonder, “Can you paint pressure treated wood?” While you most certainly can paint pressure treated wood, it’s important to be sure it’s had proper time to dry as well as knowing which kind of paint will adhere best. Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of painting pressure treated wood so your next outdoor project will be a success.

What is Pressure Treated Wood?

Pressure treated wood is simply wood that’s been treated with chemicals to protect it from moisture and insects. The chemicals it’s treated with don’t necessarily make the wood stronger but prevent it from prematurely rotting. Wood structures that will be constantly exposed to moisture or the elements are often built with pressure treated wood. Fences, playgrounds, decks, railings and playground equipment are typically constructed with pressure treated wood to hold up better over time.

When to Paint Pressure Treated Wood

The most important thing to consider when painting pressure treated wood is drying time. It may take up to 3-4 months for it to completely dry out enough to paint. One easy way to test if pressure treated wood is ready to paint is to drop some water on its surface. If the water droplets bead up, you’ll know the treated wood is still too damp. Once the droplets are absorbed into the wood instead of being repelled, it’s ready to be painted.

When Not to Paint Pressure Treated Wood

Be very aware that if you attempt painting pressure treated wood before it’s fully cured, it can leave you with a disaster. If you paint one side of the wood but it isn’t fully dry, you will most likely deal with some pretty severe warping. The non-painted side will dry faster and when that happens, you’ll end up not only with warped wood but with peeling and cracking paint as well.

How to Paint Pressure Treated Wood

Painting pressure treated wood involves steps that you wouldn’t necessarily take when painting regular lumber. Below is a list of step-by-step instructions you’ll need when painting pressure treated wood:

Step 1. Thoroughly Clean the Wood

Making sure the wood you’re working with is clean is the first step you’ll need to take before painting. Using a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of soapy water, scrub the entire surface of the wood. Follow up the cleaning with a good rinse and let dry.

Step 2. Let the Wood Dry

If you have an upcoming project that involves pressure treated wood, make sure and plan ahead when considering drying time. Be prepared that it could take as long as a few weeks to a couple of months. If you have a deadline on your project, it may be worth purchasing pressure treated wood that has already been through the drying process.

Once the wood feels dry, test it out by using the water droplet method mentioned earlier in this article. If water beads up on the surface of the treated wood, it needs more time to dry. If the water absorbs into the wood, it’s dry enough to go forward with your painting.

Step 3. Apply Primer

Once you know your wood is completely dry you can begin applying your primer. Make sure and purchase a primer that is designed for exterior pressure-treated wood. A paint sprayer is fast and efficient but also using a brush may be necessary to catch all the detail work.

Step 4. Apply Paint or Stain

After you’ve allowed proper time for the primer coat to dry, you can start applying your top coats. We recommend applying two coats for the best protection and coverage. Stick with using latex paints as they tend to work best when dealing with pressure treated wood. Avoid using oil-based paints.

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood Conclusion

Pressure treated wood may need a few extra steps in preparation for painting but other than that it’s a fairly straightforward process. However, if you feel your painting project may be more involved than you would like, and you live in the Boise area, calling in the professionals at Boise Home Painting is always a great option. Our team of experienced painters will be happy to answer all of your questions or give you a free quote. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Don’t hesitate to contact our office today!

Painting

How Often Should You Paint Your House?

15Aug2022

Painting your home can take lots of time and can also prove to be quite expensive. So, how often should you paint your house? Waiting too long can do costly damage to the integrity of your home. On the other hand, you don’t want to spend money to upgrade your paint if your paint has plenty of life left. Because your home is likely your biggest asset, it’s important to recognize the signs when it’s ready for a fresh coat of paint.

How Often You Should Paint Your House Exterior

Most painting professionals agree that you should paint the exterior of your home every 5-10 years. That number certainly isn’t set in stone and may vary depending on the surface of your home and the quality of paint previously applied. Here are some guidelines to follow for painting different surfaces:

Aluminum siding needs to be repainted every 5 years
Wood surfaces require painting every 5-7 years
Stucco should be repainted roughly every 5-6 years

How Long Does Exterior Paint Last?

There are some things to consider when it comes to prolonging your home’s exterior paint. If you want your paint job to last for 5-10 years, a lot is riding on the quality and kind of paint you choose. Just like everything, a higher quality paint will likely cost you more but is well worth it in the long run. Do some research before buying to ensure you are purchasing the best paint for your specific surface. You’ll need different paint for stucco, wood, aluminum, or brick. Keep in mind that a high-quality gallon of paint runs around $30.

How Often You Should Paint your House Interior

It’s difficult to give a specific time frame when it comes to painting the interior of your home. The level of use in each room is different which means that higher traffic areas will need to be repainted more often than a room that is rarely used.

On average, most interior rooms may need to be repainted every 5-7 years. Children’s rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms may require painting closer to every 3-4 years. Even if you use the most durable paint finishes, kitchen walls are prone to grease and food splatters and will always require maintenance sooner. Bathroom and kitchen walls require wiping down on a more regular basis, naturally causing the paint to wear down more quickly. Adult bedrooms, as well as formal dining rooms, don’t actually get used very often.

These rooms tend to have more furniture which naturally keeps any traffic away from the walls, prolonging the life of the paint. Children’s bedrooms often function as a playroom as well as a bedroom. This usually means there’s an abundance of activity taking place every day which can lead to not only dirty walls but dented and damaged walls. When painting these rooms, always opt for the more durable paint finishes such as eggshell or satin. Taking advantage of these more protective sheens will prevent dirt from showing and keep your walls looking nicer longer.

Signs you Should Repaint Your House

There are various conditions that indicate it’s time to paint your house. Odds are, you may not even remember how long it’s been since your exterior was updated. If it’s been a while, it’s important to self-evaluate the condition of your exterior. You don’t want to be negligent when it comes to such an important matter. Here are a few signs to look for:

Fading Paint

One of the most obvious ways to detect that it’s time to paint the exterior of your home is fading. Over time, the Boise sun will cause your paint to fade, especially in areas where the sun directly hits your paint the longest. If your home is painted a dark color, you’ll likely notice any fading much sooner

than with a lighter shade. If you see fading on the shaded parts of your home, you could have a problem with water intrusion. Look for stains dripping downward that may indicate a water leak. Call in a professional if you can’t determine the source of the problem.

Hardened Caulk

Caulk used on the exterior of your home is generally designed to expand and contract along with your house. It’s used to seal cracks between doors and windows. After years of exposure to the sun, caulk loses its elasticity and can become hard or start to crack. If you see areas where caulk is missing, hardened, or cracked, it’s time to repaint.

Patching Stucco

Re-stuccoing your entire home is very expensive. To cut down on costs, patch cracked areas and repaint the entire house. Otherwise, you’ll be left with obvious patchwork areas and unsightly streaks.

Bubbling, or Flaking Paint

There are several factors that contribute to bubbling, flaking, or cracking paint. But all are signs that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Generally, all of these concerns are an indicator that the paint is no longer adhering to the house. Somehow, moisture is getting beneath the paint. Extreme humidity, storms, and harsh climates can cause these symptoms in your paint.

If You Want to Improve Curb Appeal

Maybe you just purchased your home but don’t love the color. Or you might feel that times have changed and you want a more up-to-date style. If you’re looking to sell, an updated exterior is proven to make your home sell faster and for a better price. Whatever the reason, a fresh coat of exterior paint will most certainly improve the curb appeal of your home.

How Often Should You Paint Your House Conclusion

Painting the exterior of your home can be a very daunting task. However, letting your exterior paint job go for even a few extra years can result in costly damage to your home. If you live in the Boise area and you’re unsure if your exterior is in need of repainting or you in fact know that it does, contact Boise Home Painting today. Our friendly team of experts can assess the situation and answer all your questions. We serve the entire area including Meridian, Caldwell, and Eagle. Click here to get your free consultation.

interior painting

How to use black paint for walls

27Jul2022

In this guide, we’ll teach you how to use black paint for walls. When it comes to painting your walls black, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, black is a very strong color and can easily overwhelm a space if you don’t use it correctly. It’s important to find the right shade of black that will work well with the other colors in your room. You also need to make sure that your black paint is properly sealed so that it doesn’t chip or fade over time.

If you’re interested in a dramatic look, painting your walls black is a great option. Below we’ll walk you through how to use black paint for walls. If you live in the Boise, Idaho area, this is a great option for your home’s interior painting needs.

1. The different shades of black paint available

There are a surprisingly wide range of shades of black paint available for you. Whether you’re looking for a deep, rich black or a light, airy black, there’s sure to be a shade that’s perfect for you. Some blacks lean towards blue or purple, while others have warm undertones of brown or red. And depending on the brand, some blacks can even have a sparkly finish. So if you’re looking to add a touch of darkness to your home, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades of black paint until you find the perfect one for you.

2. How to use black paint in your home

Once you’ve found the perfect shade of black, it’s time to start thinking about how to use it in your home. If you’re looking for a dramatic look, painting an entire room black can be a great option. But if you want something more subtle, you could try painting just one wall black or using black paint as an accent color. Black paint can also be used to create a moody and atmospheric look in your home, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

3. How to seal black paint

Some black paints come with a seal already included, while others do not. If your black paint does not have a seal, you will need to add one yourself in order to protect the paint and keep it looking its best. There are a few different ways that you can seal black paint.

One option is to use clear polyurethane. This will provide a durable seal that will resist scratches and fading. Another option is to use resin-based sealers. These sealers will create a high-gloss finish that is perfect for accentuating the deep color of the black paint. Whichever sealer you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully in order to get the best results.

4. Different ways to decorate with black

One of the best things about black paint is that it can be used in a variety of ways to create different looks. For example, black paint can be used to create a dramatic and elegant look in a room, or it can be used to add a touch of sophistication to your space. Here are some different ways to decorate with black paint:

Use black paint to create a focal point in a room. You can use it to highlight architectural features or to make a statement piece of furniture stand out.
Create an accent wall. An accent wall is a great way to add some visual interest to a room, and black paint is the perfect way to create one.
Use it to add some drama to a room. Black paint can be used on all four walls of a room to create a dramatic look, or it can be used on just one wall for a more subtle effect.
Line your shelves or cabinets. Black paint can be used to create a sharp and clean look on shelves or cabinets.

Whether you want to make a big impact or just add a little bit of intrigue, black wall paint is the perfect way to do it.

5. Black wall ideas for your home

It’s elegant, mysterious, and commanding. It evokes a sense of power and strength, making it the perfect choice for creating a dramatic statement in your home. Whether you use it to accentuate an existing feature or to create a completely new look, black paint is sure to add impact. When you’re selecting black paint for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, consider the undertone of the black paint. If you want a truly black hue, look for a paint with a blue undertone. For a softer black shade, choose a black with a brown or green undertone. Secondly, think about the finish you want. A glossy finish will create a more sophisticated look, while a matte finish will give your black paint a more modern edge. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment! Black paint is surprisingly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Get creative and see what works best for your space.

Conclusion on how to use black paint for walls

Using black paint for walls is a great way to add drama and sophistication to your home. When selecting black paint for your space, keep in mind the undertone of the paint and the finish you want to achieve. And don’t be afraid to experiment! With its versatile nature, black paint can be used in many different ways to create a variety of looks.

If you’re looking to add some black paint to your home, contact Boise Home Painting. We’ll work with you to select the perfect shade of black and help you create the look you’ve been dreaming of. Call us today for your free estimate! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle with interior and exterior painting!

Exterior Painting

Exterior Paint Sheen & Finish Recommendations For Your Home

18Jul2022

When choosing the best exterior paint sheen for your home, there’s more to it than just how it looks. It should be an important component in the paint-selection process as it can make or break the longevity of your paint and exterior surface. Doing your homework on the best sheen for exterior paint can really pay off in the long run. Read on to learn how to choose an exterior paint sheen for your specific climate as well as the benefits of using the correct finish.

Before we go further, if you live in the Boise, Idaho area and need help painting the exterior of your home, we can help! We’ll give you a free estimate. In fact, we can even help you choose the best color for your home!

What Type of Exterior Paint Finish is Best?

Paint sheen describes the glossiness or flatness of the paint once it dries. Some are better for painting trim and small details while others work well for siding. You need a finish that will protect your home from destructive UV rays which can cause your paint to peel, fade, or crack prematurely. Boise is known for hot, dry summers, freezing winters, and lots of rain in the fall and spring. For the best long-term results, you’ll need exterior paint made with high-quality resins, additives, and pigments. Finding the best paint sheen for your home will save you from repainting for years to come. Choosing the correct paint sheen has a big impact on how long your paint will last on exterior surfaces such as trim, doors, and siding. There are basically five different types of paint sheens that are used in exterior painting. Let’s go over each one so you’ll know when it’s appropriate to use them and when there’s a better choice.

Flat or Matte Paint Finish

While flat exterior paint finishes are used quite often, they aren’t the best choice for exterior projects. Because flat paint is porous, it’s more susceptible to fading and rotting from mildew problems. A finish with a shinier sheen is more protective, easier to clean, and aesthetically more pleasing. For this reason, flat or matte paint may be an option to consider for exterior walls only but not trim or doors. Because flat paint has little or no sheen, it’s excellent at concealing imperfections in your siding or wood.

Eggshell Paint Finish

Eggshell is considered the best sheen for exterior paint when it comes to painting the body of your home. It’s the perfect happy medium, landing between flat and satin finishes. Not too flat or too shiny, eggshell looks great on a variety of siding types. Because it’s easy to clean and provides a

pleasant appearance, it’s the preferred finish for most homeowners. If you’re repainting your house and are looking for a finish that can conceal small imperfections while being durable and looking nice, go with eggshell paint.

Satin Paint Finish

Satin paint has a bit more sheen than eggshell which makes it more durable, easy to clean, and holds up against abrasion. Satin and eggshell are fairly similar in popularity when it comes to exterior paint and are both excellent options. It’s a great choice for your trim if you want a glossy look without going overboard. Satin is exceptionally nice if you live in a hot, sunny climate like the Treasure Valley. The extra sheen makes a big difference when it comes to protecting your home from the UV rays.

Semi-Gloss Paint Finish

Semi-gloss paint has noticeably more shine to it than the finishes mentioned above. This makes it perfect for surfaces that require frequent cleaning and upkeep. Not only is it easy to clean, but it protects against moisture and is more durable than satin. It’s important to note that the shinier the finish, the more imperfections you will be able to see. Semi-gloss is perfect for trim, shutters, garage doors, railings, and window sills.

High-Gloss Paint Finish

High gloss is too shiny to use on your exterior siding but is perfect when used to highlight architectural details, doors, and trim. Its beautiful shine can really bring the wow factor to your home when used appropriately. Its durable sheen adds richness to any color. Any part of your exterior that might get touched on a regular basis can benefit from a high-gloss finish. This includes window frames, decorative fixtures, shutters, decorative trim, and more.

Glossy paint finishes may also be an option if your exterior will need to be washed frequently. For example, if you live in an area where dust can be a problem or have adventurous children. However, the shininess factor has a tendency to spotlight every imperfection which still makes eggshell a better overall choice.

What Sheen should you Use for Exterior Paint?

Before you determine which paint sheen to use, consider what surface you are painting. Keep in mind that lower sheen paints such as satin or eggshell are often used for the body of the house while higher sheen paints like semi-gloss work best for accents, trim, and doors. Choosing the proper sheen for different outdoor surfaces will help you create a beautiful look and get the most from your paint.

Satin or Semi-Gloss for Exterior Trim?

When you’re talking about exterior trim, semi-gloss or high-gloss will always reign supreme. Satin is the preferred choice for exterior siding or walls but lacks the durability for areas like trim, doors, and shutters.

What is the Longest Lasting Exterior Paint?

Painting the exterior of your home is expensive and time-consuming. Since it’s quite an undertaking, you want your paint job to last as long as possible. You don’t want to have to repeat the process over and over again. The sheen you choose plays a big part in longevity but what kind of exterior paint lasts the longest?

Acrylic paint is the most durable with its ability to withstand fading from the sun, damage from the elements, and has overall great flexibility. This paint is water-based but has an added acrylic binding agent. Use acrylic paint for wood and aluminum siding, stucco, plaster, and drywall.

What is the Best Time to Paint Your House Exterior?

Painting the exterior of your home isn’t the type of job that you can do effectively any time of the year. Weather can play into the success of your paint job quite a bit. With that said, early summer and early fall are the ideal times for exterior painting. It’s always best to aim for a day that’s not too hot or too cold. The paint will dry the best when it’s not too humid. Avoid rainy days and always make sure all the surfaces you’ll be painting are completely dry.

Choosing the Best Exterior Paint Sheen For Your Home Conclusion

If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s exterior paint but still have questions about the best sheen, contact Boise Home Painting. Our professional painters have years of experience helping homeowners choose not only the best colors for their exterior but the best finish as well. We serve the entire Treasure Valley including Meridian, Nampa, and Eagle, and pride ourselves in treating each paint job like it’s our own. Click here to get your free estimate!

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