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Painting Specifications for
Interior and Exterior Cement-Plaster-Block and Stucco Surfaces.

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All work should be done observing the important safety rules
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It is possible that you may have special circumstances not described in this section. If this is the case, or if you have any problems or questions, please feel free to  e-mail us with the details and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Finish Paints:
Acrylic emulsion paints are water based, quick drying and easy to use.    Top quality emulsions are extremely durable, washable and frequently have an "eggshell" finish
(a slight shine when viewed from an angle).
The choice of final top-coat will depend on a number of factors:

  • Use of the building [private residence, commercial property, warehouse, farm structure, etc.]
  • Budgetary constraints.
  • Color scheme required. Certain deep and "mod" colors are only available in top-end sheen acrylic paints.
  • The finish desired & quality of the surface. Sheen paints are not recommended for application to surfaces in poor condition, as the reflection of light tends to exaggerate imperfections moreso than with matt (flat) finish paints.
  • How much paint do I need?

PREPARATION OF UNPAINTED SUBSTRATES

  • Always ensure that surfaces to be coated are clean, dry, firm grease- and dust-free.
  • In the case of new (or unpainted) cement plaster, always allow the new plaster to dry and cure for at least 3-4 weeks under dry weather conditions wherever possible before applying the first coat of paint.
  • Apply one coat of an alkali resistant sealer, and allow to dry for at least 24 hours.
  • Repair all cracks and imperfections to match the existing surface.

PREPARATION OF PREVIOUSLY PAINTED SUBSTRATES

  • In the case of cement or plaster walls which are currently painted and are in sound condition, remove all dirt, dust and general dirt by thoroughly scrubbing down with warm water and a little household detergent or TSP, rinse well with fresh water.
    On exteriors the use of a power washer will help in speeding up the task.
    Please observe all the safety rules when using high pressure machines.
  • In cases where efflorescence (a white powdery or crustlike deposit on the surface, caused by water leaks, normally near visible cracks or under window sills) occurs, remove the loose paint and plaster by thorough brushing and/or scraping, and make sure the area is thoroughly dry before any coatings are applied.
    It is vital that the CAUSE of the problem is identified and remedied before any work in done.
    Seal the repairs with one coat of alkali resistant sealer and allow to dry for at least 24 hours.
  • In cases where mildew and algae growth are evident, carefully wash with a mild bleach solution, appx 1/2 cup per gallon of water, or with Oxygen Bleach and rinse off with plenty of fresh water taking the necessary safety precautions, and allow to dry.
  • For walls currently painted with Enamel (gloss or semi-gloss), wash down well and then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Allow to dry and sand the  enamel paint areas thoroughly to a matt finish to provide a good "tooth" for the top coats. Dust off well and if the new topcaot is going to be a flat wall finish, it is recommended that you prime with a quality latex primer to insure proper adhesion. Topcoating with an enamel normally requires no primer.
  • In cases where the existing paint coats are flaking, peeling or in very poor condition, the ideal approach is to strip all old coatings completely down to the original substrate. Repair as required, and seal with one coat of primer.
    Alternatively you can remove as much of the loose and peeling paint as possible by scraping and or sanding, then apply the primer.

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Interior PAINTING PROCEDURES
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Exterior PAINTING PROCEDURES



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