Common Paint Questions.
64Q: How can I tell if the paint on the wall is latex or oil?
The easiest way to find out is to take a little nail polish remover on a small cotton pad and rub on surface. If paint comes off its latex. If it just appears glossy and doesnt come off,it is an oil base.
Q: What is the difference between flat, satin and semi-gloss paint?
A: Flat paint will have no visible sheen to it and is not a washable surface. Satin or eggshell paint has a slight sheen to it and is more washable than a flat. Semi-gloss paint has a noticeable sheen to it and is the most washable and scrubbable of the three.
Q: Do I have to use a primer on a previously painted surface?
A: Not always. If you are putting a latex coating over an existing latex product just make sure to lightly scuff sand wall. Same when putting oil over oil. You only need a primer when switching from one to the other, or no primer has ever been applied.
Q: How many sqare feet does a gallon of paint cover?
A: On average most paints in my experience tend to cover approximately 350-400sq feet. This changes when painting textured walls or different application methods are used other than traditional roller.
Q: Can you paint latex base paint over an oil base?
A: Generally, no. If the oil base is flat, it will adhere, but if the oil base has a sheen---no. You will need to scuff sand the wall and prime the surface so that the new paint will adhere correctly.
Q: Can paint be applied directly over semi-gloss or gloss paint?
No. Paint must be scuff sanded in order to remove any shine off of the wall. Surface should appear flat and clean, for the paint to adhere correctly.
Q: Can you apply oil base paint over latex base?
A: Yes. Interior and exterior. Make sure area is clean and dry. Before you apply the paint.
Q: Whats better for painting exterior, oil or latex paint?
Latex base coatings tend to flex with heat and cold fluctuations, so they dont seem to crack as much. They also retain their colour longer.
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Welcome and nice use of your capsules and pics....it took me some time before I figured that out. anyways, stick around it is fun.
I came home and found out the paint used to paint my buiding was interior instead of exterior. What problems am I going to have using interior paint on an outdoor building?
Can any one email me at least 40 painting interview quest. golukpe@yahoo.com
Peter M. Lopez 4 years ago
Nice hub, Dwrightie. I posted some feedback in the forum. Welcome aboard.