From Eveningsnews.com

Home Improvements
Painting Pointers for Spring Projects
By
Apr 12, 2006, 22:57


(ARA) – Spring is around the corner. Soon, the home improvement expos will return, the season’s first brave do-it-yourselfers will appear, and homeowners’ fancy will lightly turn to thoughts of painting.

Repainting – either exterior or interior – is a great way to refresh your home’s look while boosting its value. The job doesn’t have to be costly, difficult or professionally done to produce great results. “Painting is probably the home improvement project most people feel comfortable tackling on their own,” says Carol Horman, product manager for Wagner Spray Tech, makers of tools and products designed to simplify painting tasks. “With preparation and care, practically anyone can handle the job.”

Here are some hints to help spring do-it-yourselfers make the most of their painting projects:

* When picking your paint, remember: you get what you pay for. “While you don’t need to spend a bundle on designer brands, do keep in mind that a can of paint you pay only $10 for, is going to look like a $10 job once it’s on the wall,” says Horman. “Look for a mid-priced product from an established manufacturer for a best results-cost ratio.”

* Preparing your work area properly will have a big impact on the end results and post-task cleanup. Do invest the time it takes to properly tape, drape and otherwise protect wood trim, windows, floors, carpet, furniture, etc.

* Paint the ceiling first, this way, any drips or splashes that hit the walls won’t be ruining a fresh paint job. Also, your wall color will look its best under a bright, freshly painted ceiling.

* Consider using a power roller to get the job done faster, and make cleanup easier. The new Roll ‘N Go power roller is especially helpful if you’re painting more than one room. The roller’s Lock ‘N Go replacement system allows you to simply toss the parts that come in contact with the paint – the roller cover, disposable hose and paint pump. Affordable replacements allow you to switch colors quickly and easily. Paint is fed directly from the can to the wall, eliminating the need for paint trays, and allowing you to paint up to 18 square feet per minute.

* Use an “M” or criss-cross motion when first rolling paint onto the wall, then go back over the area with a straight up and down motion. This will help assure even coverage, and will minimize ridges or drips in the paint.

* Roll as close to corners or edges as possible, but be careful not to bump the roller into the ceiling. Finish corners and edges with a paintbrush.

To learn more about how power rollers can help make your painting project easier, visit www.wagnerspraytech.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

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