How to Fix Common Painting Problems (page 2 of 2)
More in Painting
Step-by-Step Instructions For:
- Removing Drips page 1
- Hiding Stains page 1
- Smoothing a Gritty Finish page 1
- Removing Wrinkled Paint page 1
- Eliminating Brush Marks current page
- Improving Poor Coverage current page
- Hiding Filler That Shows Through current page
- Dealing With a Bleeding Knot current page
Eliminating Brush Marks
Prominent brush marks are caused by poor application technique (Image 1). The problem is also common with natural wood finishes.
Obvious brush marks in different directions can make wood finishes look uneven.
Machine sand the area (Image 2). Wipe the area clean of dust with a damp cloth.
Repaint the area (Image 3). If using a natural wood finish, take care to apply stain with the grain, keeping a wet edge at all times.
Improving Poor Coverage
Poor coverage is caused by applying the wrong number of coats of paint. Sometimes this problem combines with prominent streaks in the paint caused by paint buildup on roller edges during application.
Poor coverage results in a patchy appearance (Image 1) and needs repainting.
Sand the area to remove any paint ridges created by roller edge trails (Image 2).
Recoat the area using as many coats of paint necessary to match the surface (Image 3).
Hiding Filler That Shows Through
This problem sometimes occurs when filled areas are not primed before painting. It is always best to prime filler and/or apply an extra patch of paint to filled areas. This is especially the case for water-based paints.
This problem can occur with some types of filler (Image 1).
Recoat the patch of filler with a suitable primer, or if you are painting with latex paint, prime with the full-strength paint (Image 2).
Recoat the entire wall (Image 3).
Dealing With a Bleeding Knot
Where wood has not been knotted and primed, knots can continue to secrete resin that will show through coats of paint.
Scrape back the paint from the knot and sand the area smooth (Image 1).
Apply some sealer (Image 2).
Apply primer, followed by the required paint finish (Image 3).
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Excerpted from Do It Yourself Home Improvement
© Dorling Kindersley Limited 2009
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