Paints - Ease of Application

Latex-Latex paints glide smoothly from the brush or roller onto the surface. Top quality latex paints are especially easy to apply, since recently developed additives provide even application and spatter resistance.

Oil-Compared to latex paints, alkyd paints are more difficult to apply,, especially when brushing a large area, because they have more "drag". On the other hand, they go on heavier and give more complete one-coat hiding and coverage.

Safety - Frequently asked questions

How do I clean my rollers and brushes properly?

If you used a latex paint, you can clean your rollers and brushes easily with soapy water. Oil paints require the use of a solvent cleaner and water, always use rubber gloves to protect skin.

How do I dispose of leftover paint?

If you have leftover paint that is water-based leave the can open in a ventilated area and let dry. After the paint has dried, it can be discarded in the trash. However, it is recommended with oil-based or alkyd paints that an absorbent be added to the leftover paint.

What can I do to minimize paint odor?

It is recommended to ventilate any room that your are painting before beginning.

Color

Frequently asked questions

How do colors effect room size?

Generally, warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows close in a space. Blues, greens, and violets tend to make a room look larger. Dark colors have a diminishing effect. Whites are always a good choice for making a room look larger.

My room has a chair rail and I am using two colors....?

This depends on the look you want to achieve. If you want an open, airy look, always paint the portion of the wall below the chair rail darker allowing the lighter color to dominate.

Should trim work be painted the same color as the walls...?

Use the same color to hide trim work, use a lighter or darker color to bring out the trim work and add highlights.

Will the paint I choose look lighter or darker on the wall?

Larger surfaces make the paint appear darker. As a general rule, always choose colors that are a shade or two lighter than what you want. Do keep in mind that colors can also appear lighter or darker depending on surrounding colors and lighting.

What is the best way to decide which color is best for my room?

Take color chips home to determine the color of your room. A nice technique is to hold the color chips in the daylight and at night so you will see how lighting will effect your color choices.

What color should I paint my ceiling?

White or off-white colors will create the illusion of having a higher ceiling and more open space. Whereas medium to dark colors will create the illusion of lowering the ceiling. Customarily, white or off-white tend to be used.

Will the paint actually match the color chip?

As a general rule, paint on a color chip will appear slightly lighter than when applied in a room. Always take into account the sheen of the paint, the lighting in the room, and other colors that are in the room.