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Painting correctly: The diverse uses of colored paint

Do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike swear by the use of colored paints. On the one hand, they are easy to apply, usually with a brush, paint roller or as spray paint in a spray can, and on the other hand, they show their first-class properties on a variety of surfaces, so that painting offers a wide range of options. Wood, metal, plastics, concrete and masonry - no problem for the paint products. With these paints, painting properly is made easy for you.

In 2 steps to the right paint

If you want to paint a surface properly, you shouldn't just start blindly, but rather think about it first. What material is the surface to be painted made of? Is it indoors or outdoors? Which colored paint is best? The question of the right paint is actually the most important thing for painting properly. Below we will explain in detail what you should consider when choosing colored paint and what the advantages and disadvantages of different types of paint are. We will then show you how to properly prepare the surface to be painted and how to paint it properly.

Glossy, satin or matt paints: paint correctly with the right gloss level

Colored paints come in different degrees of gloss. There are gloss paints that create a high-gloss surface, look particularly elegant and are significantly more durable, as well as silky matt and matt colored paints that are more discreet. The choice you make depends on your personal taste, but also on the impact resistance you need for the surface coating.

Worth knowing: The gloss level indicates how strongly incident light is reflected by the paint. Determining this is therefore an important feature of the surface coating that you should always pay attention to if you want to paint properly. As a rule, high-gloss surfaces reflect the light evenly in one direction, while matte surfaces distribute it more irregularly. Because perception often differs from person to person, the exact level is determined with a reflectometer.

How to paint correctly with acrylic paint: advantages and disadvantages

Acrylic paints are water-based and therefore particularly environmentally friendly, such as our BAUFIX colored paint . This means that the water-based paint is liquid when applied. The product can even be diluted with water afterwards. The low odor is a real advantage indoors. At the same time, the water-based version impresses with its high weather and UV resistance and a quick drying time after painting. This means that the colored paint cuts a fine figure even outdoors.

However, the paint application is usually not as optimal. They are also somewhat inferior to the other variants in terms of durability. The top layer is slightly less

Correct painting with synthetic resin paint: advantages and disadvantages

Synthetic resin varnishes are solvent-based varnishes. They are viscous and cannot be diluted. What they are particularly good at is applying a robust and hard-wearing surface to materials, making them shock and impact resistant. After hardening, the surface can withstand even the toughest of stresses. Because the varnish remains elastic, it is suitable for painting wood without any problems and protects the material from cracks. Because the varnishes are also heat-resistant, it is even recommended for use on radiators. The disadvantage is that the protective varnish develops a stronger smell when applied and takes longer to dry.

Cleaning & priming: these preparations allow surfaces to be painted correctly

In order to paint surfaces properly, the surface must be prepared after choosing the appropriate paint. It is important that it is clean and even.

Cleaning and removing old paint to paint properly

When you start work, first clean the surface you want to paint thoroughly. Then it should be dried really well. If the surface has already been painted before, this layer must first be thoroughly removed. The best way to do this is to use water and washing-up liquid for water-based paint, and solvent or paint stripper for solvent-based paint. This is easy to apply and you can remove the paint with water and a spatula after it has taken effect. Sanding is only recommended for surfaces that you cannot damage with the sander.

Sanding away bumps to paint properly

To achieve an optimal, smooth painting result, the surface must be even. You can use sandpaper, a sander or a sanding block to repair any unevenness. Small cracks must also be filled with filler.

primer to paint properly

To increase adhesion and ensure easier processing, applying a primer can be a good idea. A low-emission universal primer is suitable for most surfaces, while a rust-inhibiting primer should be used for metals.

Don’t want to wait for the primer to dry before getting started? With 2-in-1 products like BAUFIX Coloured Varnish, priming before painting is unnecessary. It’s ready to use right away and delivers excellent adhesion even without a primer.

How to apply the lacquer

After you have made all the necessary preparations, it is now time to apply the paint. Depending on the surface, you will proceed slightly differently. For larger areas, it is advisable to start in a corner and work your way from there step by step to achieve an even result. For smaller areas, start in the middle and work your way outwards. The general rule for multi-coloured painting is to start with the lighter colour in order to paint properly.

How do I store and dispose of colored paints?

Store paints in a cool, frost-free place. Make sure to seal the container airtight after painting. This is the only way to prevent drying out. Depending on the container, unopened paints can be used for two years and opened cans for up to twelve months. Dispose of dried paints in the household waste. Take liquid paints to your local recycling center. If in doubt, always choose the last option for the sake of the environment.

Do you want to breathe new life into your home? Then get some colored paint! Browse through our range and discover the variety of colors and variants of BAUFIX paints. We hope you enjoy your project and are happy to advise you on all your questions.