Permits and Codes

Some areas require permits whenever you are spending over a certain amount of money on any repairs or remodeling. Sometimes this figure is as low as $100. Check with your local municipalities to see if you need a permit Usually only a small fee is required, and often this ordinance is not enforced. Other than this, no permits or inspections apply for painting projects.

What You Will Need

Time. Preparation time will depend on the extent of the problems encountered. Painting (including cutting-in) will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes per 100 square feet.

Tools for Painting. The tools you will need for your painting project are listed in under the Checklist section. But let's discuss some things you will need to know when purchasing these tools.

For the most part, it is wise to use paint rollers for the large areas, brushes for smaller areas, and specialized tools for corners, trim, and so on. For tight maneuvering in areas like small bathrooms and closets where there may be lots of trim and little room to exploit the speed of a roller, consider using a paint pad instead. Always purchase high-quality tools, or you will regret it later. Cheap rollers, pads, and brushes can cause a poor application.

 With rollers, purchase a handle with nylon bearings, a comfortable grip, a threaded hole for an extension, and a beveled end. Usually a good synthetic roller cover will work as well as a lambs wool roller. Also note that rollers come in many different types. Their naps differ according to their use. Read the package and be sure you buy the proper ones for your application. Also, purchase a metal or plastic grid, called a screen, to go in your pan. This assures that the roller is properly loaded.  

Pads should have beveled edges and a curled rear edge. When purchasing brushes, buy either synthetic or natural bristles. Natural bristles are recommended for oil-based paints but not water-based paints. Synthetic filament brushes (nylon or polyester) must be used for water-thinned paint, although they work in solvent coatings as well. Polyester brushes should not be used with shellacs and lacquers. Always purchase high-quality brushes. Most jobs require a 4" brush for "cutting in," a 2" brush for baseboards and trim, and a 1 1/2" to 2" angled sash brush for windows and smaller trim. Also, several specialty tools, may be required for your application. Refer to the checklist to see if any apply to your job.

Materials for Painting. There are two types of paint alkyd-base, called oil-based paint, and latex, or water-based paint. Latex paints are generally used in areas where there is little need for frequent washing. Clean-up with these paints requires only water and is much easier than with oil-based paints, which require a solvent.

Oil-based paints are applied where washing may be needed frequently. They are also often applied over metal or wood, since they are more resistant to damage. Paints also come in several finishes: primers, gloss, and flat Primers (undercoats; sealers) are used as bases or undercoats for the finish coat of paint. Flat paints with no gloss are frequently used on walls and ceilings. Gloss finishes (from low to high gloss) are used on woodwork and in bathrooms and kitchens.

Estimating paint. Multiply the perimeter of the room by the height of the walls  This will give you the square-foot area of the walls. For ceilings, multiply the length by the width. A gallon of base coat will cover 350 to 450 square feet. If you figure the square footage and add a little more for touch up, that should do. Always purchase all you need in one order to avoid mismatching colors.

Most Common Mistakes

The single most common mistake in any project is failure to read and follow manufacturer's instructions for tools and materials being used. In regard to painting, the most common mistakes are:

• Not preparing a clean, sanded, and primed (if needed) surface.
• Failure to mix the paints properly.
• Applying too much paint to the applicator.
• Using water-logged applicators.
• Not solving dampness problems in the walls or ceilings.
• Not roughing up enamel paint before painting over it.