Surface Preparation is Key

To make your painting project a lasting success, one requirement that is critical is thorough Surface Preparation.

It is found that 75% of paint and coating-related failures are directly related to improper surface preparation.

Surface preparation works to ensure the best-possible mechanical bonding or adhesion, while also helping to mitigate later problems, such as corrosion and mechanical damage. While there are different methods of surface preparation for different materials and applications, the importance of surface prep is universal.

Here are a few steps when tackling surface preparation that will help to ensure success:

1) Assessment of Surface Condition- Take account of the overall environment of the area being painted. Is it a high-traffic area? How is this space used and what is the level of abuse on painted surfaces the area needs to withstand? What materials are the surfaces to be painted comprised of? When was the last time the surface was painted?

The answers to these questions will help to determine the appropriate level of surface preparation needed as well as assure proper paint selection.

2) Remove Surface Contamination –The performance of a coating is highly dependent on the surface preparation and hence, all the surfaces to be coated must be clean, dry, and free from dirt, grease, oil, or any other contaminant.

Here are the least to most intensive surface cleaning solutions:

• Warm water and sponge

• Warm water and sponge with added detergent

• Bleach solution for mildew (3-parts water, 1-part bleach)

• TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) or chemical cleaner

• Power washer (exterior siding/walls only)

3) Remove Loose or Flaking Paint – If the surface is cracked, peeling, blistered, or otherwise loose and you paint directly over it, you’ll find yourself in trouble. Although the imperfections will initially be covered by fresh paint, the underlying layer will soon bubble up putting it in jeopardy. It’s best to remove all loose, flaking, and blistering areas before repainting.

Here are a few tools to use to remove loose or flaking paint:

• Paint Scrapers – choose a rounded edge to prevent gouging the area.

• Wire Brushes – can be used on small or large areas. Applying some paint thinner or paint remover to the surface and then using the wire brush can be very effective.

• Power Drill Nylon Wire Brush – Attaching a nylon drill brush to a power drill is an effective way to remove flaking or loose paint. You can also use this in conjunction with paint stripping gel.

• Disc Sander – This is helpful for large areas.

• Pressure Washer – Used on exterior surfaces, this technique can also clean off mold and mildew.

4) Remove and Repair Broken Areas - The proper fix is dependent on the type of surface you are working with but ensuring a smooth, clean surface is the goal in repairing an area for proper adhesion of the new coating.

Here are a few issues that will need attention/repair before painting:

• Drywall cracks

• Wood splintered, rotted, or broken.

• Broken or lose nails

• Masonry that is cracking or crumbling

• Recurring wetness or moisture issues

The durability of any painting coat depends upon complete and careful preparation of the surface before painting. Surface preparation should be considered the first part of any job. In general, surface preparation should only add a few days to your process, but it can add many years to the longevity of your completed surface. For more information or if you have a project you would like to have done, contact Cobb Brothers Company, Inc. who are experts in surface preparation for all types of painting jobs. info@CobbBrothersCo.com / 508-655-7910