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How To Paint Trim

Let’s face it! Most people think they can paint, which is why painting is one of the most common DIY home improvement projects ever. However, there is more to painting than buying a brush and some paint. This is true, especially when you need to get professional results or when painting “tricky” areas like the trim. If you wish to paint trim like an expert, here’s what you should know.

Tools Needed to Paint Trim Like a Pro

You need a light source, sanding pad/paper, putty knife, painters’ tape, paintbrush, box cutter knife, fine-grit sand sponge, wood filler, spackling compound, paint, and caulk.

Step 1: Test For Lead Paint

If you are painting trim that has existing paint that seems to be decades old, it’s advisable to test the paint for lead before doing anything else. Lead and other potentially dangerous materials like asbestos should be handled by professionals only. Consider finding a certified painting company to test for lead paint. Alternatively, you can buy a lead testing kit in your local store and follow EPA guidelines.

Step 2: Check For Flaws and Rectify Them

Begin by shining light on the wood to find rough edges, loose paint, and other blemishes that may require filling. Circle all flaws lightly. Smoothen out the flaws and other areas like windowsills using sandpaper or a sanding pad. When repairing large gouges or dents, use wood filler.

Small imperfections (holes and dents) can be rectified using spackling compound. When using spackling compound, apply as many coats as required to have a perfect appearance. Allow the filler to dry and smooth it.

Step 3: Remove Thick Paint

For excellent results, you may need to remove any thick paint on the trim using a putty knife, after which you should sand and vacuum thoroughly.

Step 4: Cover Other Areas with Tape and Paint

To get impeccable results, cover other areas that you don’t want to paint using tape. To get a smooth trim, it’s advisable to sand between coats. Use a fine-grit sand sponge that gets in between crevices before applying another coat. Vacuum the trim after every sanding before wiping down using a cloth to scrape dust.

To get perfect edges, let the paint dry before cutting the tape. You should wait for a day for the paint to dry and then use a box cutter knife to cut through. Begin with inconspicuous areas just to ensure the paint is dry enough before proceeding to other areas. The tape should also be pulled at an angle before removing.

You should also paint while gently removing excess paint from your brush before wiping both sides of your brush gently on your trim. Also, work on the edges of your trim, then the center, and don’t work the paint for long after applying.

Important: Trim should be painted first before walls and ceilings since it’s easier to remove the tape from the walls. What’s more, you can concentrate on a smooth finishing instead of neatness. Also, remember to caulk wide gaps and cracks and remove excess using a putty knife. You can use paintable latex/silicone.

Choosing Trim Paint

When choosing paint, consider oil-based paint as it doesn’t dry quickly, allowing you more time for brushing. Oil-based paints also have a smoother outcome with little to no visible brush marks. While water-based paint may be easier to clean and comes with other notable pros, the outcome isn’t as great as oil-based paint.

Conclusion: How to Paint Trim

You can make painting your trim a DIY project. However, to get impeccable results indistinguishable from professional painting, you must follow the tips above to the letter. You also need the right tools and a masterclass on how to paint. Something as small as overpainting or holding your brush the wrong way can compromise the finish.

If you want nothing but the best outcome, you are better off hiring a professional painting company. Swift Painting LLC is one such company that specializes in offering professional residential painting services at a great price. The customer service is also great, and the results are guaranteed.