If you’re in the process of a home remodel, you already know that paint is a major consideration. Choosing the right paint for your home’s interior can make a huge difference in the look and feel of any room. Faux painting techniques can offer added flair to any décor. If you’ve never considered implementing any of the various faux painting techniques, the following information may help expedite your decision making process.

Faux painting techniques are easy to do yourself. All you need is an idea and a minor knowledge of your chosen technique. Let’s look at some of the various faux techniques and get some basic information on each.

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Sponging is a very popular faux paint choice wherein a dampened sea sponge is used to either add a second coat of paint in a different color or to take color away from an existing paintjob. Removing color using a sea sponge is advisable only if the surface has been freshly painted. Otherwise, your best bet will be to add a complimentary color to the existing paintjob.

Ragging is similar to sponging; only the tool of choice is a dampened rag. Here again, this process is used to either add paint to, or remove paint from and existing surface. Rag techniques offer a lacy and elegant appearance and is always popular for formal dining areas and master baths.

Colorwashing is a technique wherein three colors are mixed together to create a hazy, dreamlike blend that gives any surface a look of subtle texture.

Frottage is a technique whereby plastic is pressed against a freshly painted, wet wall to create the look of aged leather. This technique can be done in any color and no special plastic is required. Most people simply use plastic shopping bags or regular kitchen trash bags.

Dragging is the process of dragging a dry brush down a freshly painted, wet wall to create the appearance of textured fabric.

Some people elect to use a crackle technique on their walls. This technique is only available with the purchase of special paint that cracks when it dries. When this paint is layered over an existing color, the crackle creates a two-tone, antique look.

Another great idea is to alternate paint textures themselves. Because flat paint dries with no sheen, combining flat and gloss paints can create a classic, custom look. A good example of this would be the implementation of a technique whereby a flat base coat is painted on a chosen surface and allowed to dry. After the base coat has dried completely, a pattern is outlined on the wall using painter’s tape. Next, a coat of semi or high gloss paint in the same color is painted over the tape. After the tape is removed, you are left with alternating paint textures in flat and gloss.
This technique makes for an elegant and sophisticated look with little effort. It can also add to the durability of your current paintjob because gloss paints are easier to clean.

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Unless you have a vinyl of brick home, chances are you will have to paint eventually. There are lots of considerations when painting your home’s exterior that should not be overlooked. Let’s take a look at some of the variables that will impact the choices you make for exterior paint.

The first thing you should consider before painting your home’s exterior is the necessary surface preparation. Be sure to clean the entire surface thoroughly using a pressure washer or a good ole bucket and brush. If you paint over dirt, your finish will not last as long or look as smooth as will painting on a clean surface. If your existing paint is peeling, it’s important to scrape off the excess to ensure your new paint will adhere properly and look polished. Be sure the surface of the house is completely dry before you paint. If it has rained, or you pressure washed, wait a day or two before you paint.

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Your next consideration should be the type of paint you choose. When shopping for paint, be sure to purchase paint that’s specially formulated for use on the exterior of a home. Exterior paints are typically more durable than their interior counterparts and will withstand harsh weather, and direct sunlight more effectively. Some paints are equipped for use on certain surfaces. For example, paint for metal siding is a different formulation than paint used on wood.

You should also choose a paint color that will compliment your home and surrounding comparables. You certainly don’t want to choose a color that will get you reported to the neighborhood council. So, it’s wise to spend some time making this decision. Drive around and look for color combinations that appeal to you. Also remember that the color of your roof will have an impact on the exterior paint color you choose. It’s imperative to choose a color that compliments, and does not compete or clash with your existing roof color.

You will also need a good roller with several heads, a quality trim brush and surface brush, as well as painter’s tape for taping out windows. You will need sturdy ladders and possibly scaffolding. You should also make sure to purchase paint stirrers, rags, and plastic drop cloths if you’re over a porch or deck. You will also need tools to remove shutters and window boxes before the job.

Because of the massive work involved, most homeowners elect to choose a painting contractor to complete this project. If this is the route you prefer, consider consulting the contractor before making decisions on color and paint brand. Painting contractors can usually provide a wealth of information on what will work best for which material and offer prices that will give you the most bang for your buck. Most professional painting contractors offer free estimates for buildings up to a certain square footage.

Painting the exterior of your home is a project that should be undertaken every few years at the least. This, of course, is dependant on the climate and weather in your area, your lot location, and the quality of the products and paintjob you use with each application. Exterior paint can improve your home’s market value and will greatly increase your chance of resale in a volatile market.

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You’re ready to paint, and you’ve decided that this is a job for a professional, so what do you look for when you’re choosing a painting contractor? Let’s examine some of the most important deciding factors of this choice.

First of all, set a budget. Once you’ve determined what you’re willing to spend, you can start getting estimates. Most painting contractors offer free estimates with a quick phone call. Be sure to keep track of each estimate so you can systematically eliminate the contractors that completely blow your budget.

You should next consider the time limit each painting contractor provides. The duration of the project should be consideration for many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that the painting crew will be strangers in your home, and you will have to plan your life accordingly. Many painting contractors will start off with a bang only to slow down mid way through…do your best to get a contract stipulation that will fine the contractor for every day he’s impermissibly over due for project completion. In some areas this fine is as high as 200 hundred dollars per day.

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Find out what kind of systems your painting contractor of choice uses for painting. Will he spray? Will he brush and roll? If the contractor cannot advise you on acceptable paint systems for your home, he’s likely inexperienced.

You should select a painting contractor that will provide you with a warranty for the job. Peeling, bubbling, fading, and other factors should be taking into account when devising a warranty. Remember, warranties will vary between interior and exterior work, so read the fine print and be sure your contractor is honest.

Payment schedule should also be a determining factor when choosing a contractor. If you’re hiring out a small job, most legitimate painting contractors will require payment upon project completion. Some require a fifty-fifty arrangement for large jobs, wherein you pay fifty percent when the job is half done, and fifty percent on completion. It is unwise to pay up front because you may be throwing money away. Even if you’re paying a percentage up front you run the risk of absentee contractors. It’s always smart to pay for work after you’ve seen it, and not the other way around.

Lastly, obtain references from your contractor. He or she should be able to supply you with at least three verifiable references. Contact each reference individually and ask as many questions as possible. If you are the contractor’s very first client, you may be in for a rude awakening. Hiring a ‘newbie’ should be done at your discretion and not without a lot of thought.

Take your time with this selection and be sure to cover all your bases. Take before and after pictures as documentation of a job well done, or for evidential purposes should the worst happen! While you’re not likely to need them, it’s a good idea of obtain photographic evidence of work progression – just in case. Good luck, and happy painting!

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