Paint Like a Pro

A fresh coat of paint is the most inexpensive way to "remodel" a room. But, as with all remodeling projects, the key to success is preparation. With so many tools and products available today, preparing for a painting project can be overwhelming and confusing for any do-it-yourselfer. To make the project easier, professional painters recommend a few "must-haves."

All-Purpose Caulk

Joints should always be reinforced to prevent cracking by using a paintable, mildew-resistant all-purpose caulk, such as Polyseamseal All-Purpose Sealant. Water-based sealants have the added ease of soap and water clean up.

Five-in-One

Rather than fumbling with knives and screwdrivers, you can open paint cans, clean rollers, scrape peeling paint, remove old caulk, open cracks and apply putty with this one handy tool.

Patching Products

To repair nail holes and chipped paint before painting, use a paintable, fast-drying, shrink-free patching compound. For holes in woodwork, be sure to use an epoxy, such as PL FI: X Wood Stik, with a soft texture, since a course texture will create a noticeable variation in the wood.

Sandpaper or Sanding Blocks

Sanding is necessary to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere. A durable aluminum oxide, A-weight paper with 100- to 150-grit is suitable for most general-purpose sanding applications.

Masking Tape

To keep paint only on the desired surfaces, use masking tape to cover woodwork or hardware. Brands such as Duck Perfect Release Plus Masking Tape are designed for delicate surfaces such as wallpaper and drywall. They feature a low-tack adhesive to allow easy removal without damaging the surface.

Drop cloths

Protecting floors from grit, sawdust, caulk and paint spills is necessary on any job. Cloth drops are more expensive, but they work best, especially over carpets. There are also statically treated, pre-taped drop cloths that feature a pre-taped edge of professional-grade masking tape.

Once the walls are ready and flooring is covered, you can gather paint supplies.

Paint Brushes and Rollers

A quality brush makes it easier to apply paint evenly and accurately. Use a one- to two-inch, high-quality, nylon/polyester, angled brush because it can be used with all coatings, holds paint well and provides better brush control where detail is necessary.

Rollers should be selected based on the type of paint being applied. For a semigloss or gloss paint or for washable enamel, use a 3/8-inch nap, shed-resistant roller cover, such as the Wooster Doo-Z or Super Doo-Z. For flat paints, choose a roller with a 1/2-inch-nap that's labeled "For Flat Paints" like the Wooster Golden Flo.

Interior Latex Paint

For most indoor applications, a latex interior paint is the key since it is formulated to be washable, stain- and splatter-resistant and is easy to touch-up. Latex paints are easy to work with, dry quickly and are extremely durable.

When it comes to home improvement projects, preparation is the key. By using the appropriate tool and products, homeowners can achieve a great-looking paint job in minimal time that gives them the satisfaction and pride of a job well done, without professional costs!

For more information on Polyseamseal All-Purpose Sealant or PL FI: X Wood Stiks, visit www.osisealants.com. For more information on Wooster Brushes, visit www.woosterbrush.com. For more information on DuckBrand Masking Tape, pre-taped drop cloths or other products, visit www.duckproducts.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com, e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com