Halloween is here! It’s all fun and games with endless candy and spooky costumes, but don’t bring the scariness into the workplace when you have a painting job.
Keep it lean and clean no matter the time of the year when it comes to paint preparation. Here are five things not to do when you’re beginning a project as a residential or commercial painting contractor.
We know. You’re a professional; you have a steady hand. Of course you do. And installing surface protection paper and taping the trim with masking tape takes time. But taking the steps to prep your space before the job will make the actual painting go much faster, giving you a consistent look and preventing the occasional slip of hand leading to a good paint job.
Taking the time to protect your surfaces makes a great impression on your clients, showing them you’re a conscientious and dedicated professional.
It’s tempting, especially if you’re short on time—or maybe you think it won’t matter if you’re using a paint primer with anti-mold and -mildew components. Not true. Your surface and whether it’s clean or not dictates the paint’s ability to adhere to it. You’re not going to want to take that call a year later to hear about peeling paint, are you?
Poor outcomes reflect poorly on you. Make sure to take a damp cloth or tack cloth to remove any dirt or debris to create a smooth surface prior to your painting project.
Nearly three-quarters of U.S. homes built before 1978 contain lead paint either inside or outside. Before you’re ready to paint and start preparing walls for painting, stripping paint, power-washing or anything else, it’s a good idea to know what you’re working with. Nothing’s worth risking your health.
Be sure to test your space for lead, or other harmful jobsite risks. If you do plan on working in a harmful environment, make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective wear, such as DuPont Tyvek Coveralls.
You know this! But a little reminder never hurts. Invest in a high quality wiper. Cheap wipers (or excessively dirty ones) leave behind grime and fibers that affect the surface you’re painting. We recommend replacing or washing your painter’s rags regularly. Explore Trimaco’s beloved Wonder Rags. It’s truly a painter’s favorite!
Think you haven’t got time for straining your paint? Don’t! When you do not strain your paint, you increase your risk of clogging sprayers. In addition to this costly mistake, you’ll also be putting inferior paint on the walls, complete with impurities that can add a grainy or uneven texture.
Reliable straining bags with professional-grade mesh and filters can be a live-saver. Explore Trimaco’s full line of paint strainers to find the one that meets the needs of your job.
Save the scary stuff for Halloween and remember paint prep is key. Trimaco has a fun line of surface protectors, masking products, paint strainer and rags to help prep your jobsite. Check out our full catalog to ensure the best jobsite protection.
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