Choosing the right paint for the job is key to achieving your vision. Knowing how and when to apply that paint is a big part of making it last. Follow these guidelines to achieve outstanding results:
Good Painting Weather
A general rule is that latex paints and primers can be applied when the temperature is 50°F and above (unless using a product designed for low temperature application, such as ACRI-SHIELD LTC Low Temperature cure Acrylic House Paints and Primers). Acri-Shield, Permanizer, or Acri-Pro 100 house paints. Don't paint when the temperature is over 95°F or if the relative humidity is above 85%. It's best to paint west and north sides of a structure during the morning, and east and south sides in the afternoon. Paint on the shady side-the paint will be less apt to blister and peel.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints guide to Painting Interiors.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints guide to Painting Exterior Wood.
Using a Brush
Use either natural bristle or synthetic bristle brushes with alkyd/oil paints, but use only synthetic bristle brushes with latex or acrylic paints. The water in latex or acrylic paints removes the oils from natural bristles and they quickly become unmanageable. Dip the brush about halfway into the paint. Withdraw and tap it lightly against the inside of the can to remove excess paints from both sides of the brush. Keep the brush well filled but not overloaded. Always use the flat side of the brush-never the edge. This will give a better appearance to the paint job, and the brush will last longer.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints brush and roller cover recommendations guide
Using a Roller
With the wide range of specialized rollers available, it's possible to do most of a paint job without a brush. A roller gives a more even coating than a brush, but be aware that it can also stretch the paint too thin over the surface. Load the roller by rolling it back and forth in the paint tray several times into the "shoreline" of the paint, to saturate it evenly. Then remove the excess paint by rolling it along the ridge at the shallow end several times. Paint a large "W" (about 2 feel square) on the wall, then cross the roller back and forth to obtain solid coverage. Finish with light, vertical strokes to eliminate streaking. Work the roller at moderate speed. Working too fast or using heavy pressure causes bubbles or spatters.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints brush and roller cover recommendations guide
Maintain a Wet Edge
Whether using a brush or roller, it's very important to maintain a "wet" edge as you paint to help eliminate lap marks. Always brush or roll into the wet edge, not away from it. When you stop painting, always stop at a corner. Maintaining a wet edge is even more important when staining than in painting, as lap marks are more prominent. If you have to start a new can in the middle of a wall, mix some of the new paint with the last of the old in the old can to ensure blending of colors.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints guide to Painting Interiors
Stir the Paint or Stain
Always stir the paint or stain thoroughly before use. Since pigment has a tendency to settle, periodically stir during application to ensure color consistency.
Interior Staining
Remember that, because of the variations in wood, test for color and effect on your wood. Experiment with the stain on an extra piece of wood from the job or on an inconspicuous area. Use a soft brush or cloth to apply an even coat of stain, then wipe with a soft clean cloth to bring out the highlights of the wood. Wipe in a circular motion. The length of time between applying the stain and wiping it off determines the depth of color. Generally speaking, you will start to wipe the surface between five to ten minutes after applying the stain. If the stain is too deep in color after wiping off as much stain as possible, a little paint thinner on the cloth will help to remove some more.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints guide to Staining Interiors
Staining Exterior Siding
For vertical siding, begin at the top and work down. Do only as many boards as you can handle, staining non-stop to the bottom. For horizontal siding, begin at one edge and work continuously across to the end of the board.
Download the PPG Porter® Paints guide to Staining Exterior Siding
Painting Exterior Siding
Begin at the top and work down. Paint the underside of the siding first, then the surface. Your strokes should parallel the siding. On horizontal siding, work with horizontal strokes, and on vertical siding use vertical strokes. Complete one side, or at least to a door or window, before stopping for the day.
Clean-up and Storage
Clean your brushes and equipment immediately and store them properly. With latex or acrylic paints, clean your equipment with warm soapy water and let dry. For alkyd/oil-based paints, clean with thinner, then soap-and-water. To maintain their shape, store brushes in the paper or cardboard sleeves that they came in. Seal the remaining paint carefully. A sheet of plastic wrap laid across the top of the can before replacing the lid helps seal the can.
