Painting

When painting steps, start with the underside of each step’s overhang, then move on to the risers and the treads.

When power mixing, reduce the splattering by putting the container in a large trash bag.

Lead-based paint is usually not a hazard if it is in good consition, and it is not an impact or friction surface, like a window. It is defined by the federal government as paint with lead levels greater that or equal to 1.0 milligram per square centimeter, or more than .5% by weight.

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.

Most exterior paints will cover about 400 square feet per gallon for one coat. But adjust for waste factors like the type of surface and equipment used. If the surface is rough or porous, add 20% to the total gallons figured. If siding is narrow (4 to 5 in.), add 10%. If on a corrugated surface, add 33%. Also add on a 10% waste factor if using brushes or rollers, add 20% for airless paint sprayers, and add about 40% for air paint sprayers.

Though it may seem like common sense to some people, one of the easiest ways to cover your furniture (if you have to keep it in the room) is to move it all to the middle of the room and cover it all with old sheets and/or drop cloths.

Using a power drill and paddle attachment mechanizes the job of stirring paint, but it can cause splatters. One way to solve the problem is to use a paper plate. Punch a hole in the center of the plate and push the end of the paddle attachment through the hole before chucking it into your drill. Then hold the plate down over the open can while stirring.

To reduce your child’s exposure to lead, get your child checked, have your home tested (especially if your home has paint in poor condition and was built before 1978), and fix any hazards you may have. Children’s blood lead levels tend to increase rapidly from 6 to 12 months of age, and tend to peak at 18 to 24 months of age.

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.

When painting, keep a damp rag handy to clean up as you go. It’s much easier to clean paint that is still wet.