Paint & Wallpaper

Get the most out of your paint roller by cleaning and re-using it. After washing, hang the roller on a rope or dowel to dry, don’t stand the roller on its end or lay it on it’s nap. Dry thoroughly before storing in dust-free cabinets or boxes.

Never store paint where it will be subjected to subfreezing cold or extreme heat (over 100 F/ 37.78 C). Although most paints are formulated to withstand several freeze-thaw cycles, these conditions can ruin coatings by causing then to solidify.

To prevent air from entering partially used paint cans, store them upside down after placing the top on firmly.

Wait at least two weeks before washing the newly painted surface. After that, clean with any mild household detergent and a soft cloth or sponge.

To make a room appear taller, paint the ceiling the same color as the walls. This eliminates any break between the two and gives the illusion of height.

Always store paint in its original container, with the label intact. This will help you properly identify rise color and type of paint when you go to use it again. If key information is concealed by paint drippings, write down the brand, manufacturer’s code, color, gloss level and type of paint on a strip of masking tape and affix it to the side of the can before you put it away.

For a quicker and more efficient paint job, don’t overload the paintbrush or roller. If it drips, there’s too much paint.

When painting casement windows, make sure they are wide open. Paint the top, side, and bottom edges first, then finish with the crossbars, frames, casings, and sills. 1. For double-hung windows move each sash to the center of its track, and paint the inside sash, starting with the crossbars. Then, paint the frame. Don’t paint the top edge of the inside sash; you’ll use it to move the sash. Next, paint the top half of the outside sash, starting with the crossbar, then the frame. 2. Close the sashes to within several inches of the closed position. Paint the rest of the outer sash and the top edge of the inner sash. Paint the window casing, then the sill. 3. Paint the check rails. Move both sashes down as far as they will go, then paint the upper rails. Once the paint is thoroughly dry, move both sashes up and paint the lower rails of the window.