Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a primer?
You generally need a primer when painting onto bare wood, new plaster, porous, or previously stained surfaces to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish. Without primer, the paint may not bond properly with the surface. Over time, this leads to peeling, flaking, or bubbling. Bare or porous walls can soak up paint unevenly.
A primer produces a fully prepared substrate, to support your chosen finish. Primers address issues presented by the underlying surface and are usually quite specific to the type of substrate (for example resinous wood, friable plaster or ferrous metal). Primed surfaces are easier for paint to adhere to and also prevent seeping or bleeding between paint layers.
Certain primers are formulated to block and prevent stains from bleeding through the final paint layer, particularly useful when covering water stains, smoke damage, crayon/marker or tannin-rich woods.
For previously painted, sound surfaces, a primer is usually not needed.
Do I need an undercoat?
Undercoats should generally be used when changing from dark to light colours.
An undercoat prepares an even surface for painting. Undercoat is traditionally a separate layer, formulated to provide the best surface and colour for the desired topcoat; promoting good adhesion, depth of colour, flatness and longevity. Painting a base layer ensures that your chosen colour can be achieved in fewer coats.
How many coats of paint do I need to apply for full coverage?
The number of coats of paint needed for full coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the colour and type of paint that you are using, the surface being painted, and the desired finish. Applying multiple coats helps achieve a more uniform and solid colour, hides any underlying imperfections or previous paint colours, and enhances the overall durability and longevity of your paint job.
There are times where additional coats may be required. For example, if you are transitioning from a darker to a lighter colour, or if you are painting over a highly textured or porous surface, you may need to apply an extra coat or use a Fleetwood primer to ensure proper coverage. It’s always a good idea to follow our recommendations on the paint can regarding the number of recommended coats and any specific instructions for achieving optimal coverage. Additionally, evaluating the coverage after each coat has dried can help determine if additional coats are needed to achieve the desired result.
How do I prepare walls for painting?
Preparing walls for painting is an essential step to ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish. Here are the general steps to follow:
- Clear the Room: Remove furniture, decorations, and any other items from the walls and surrounding area. Cover the floor and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect them from paint splatters or dust.
- Clean the Walls: Dust, dirt, and grease can affect paint adhesion, so it’s crucial to clean the walls thoroughly. Use a mild detergent solution and a sponge or cloth to remove any grime or stains. Rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
- Repair Any Damage: Inspect the walls for any holes, cracks, or imperfections. Fill these areas with filler or caulk and and smoothen them using a putty knife. Once dry, sand the repaired spots by hand or with a professional sander until they are flush with the surrounding wall surface.
- Sand the Walls: Lightly sand the entire wall surface using a fine-grit sandpaper. This helps create a slightly rough texture for better paint adhesion and also smoothens out any bumps or imperfections. Be sure to remove any sanding dust with a damp cloth afterward.
- Prime the Walls (if necessary): If you are painting over a highly porous surface, new drywall, or areas with stains or discoloration, applying a coat of primer is recommended. Primer helps seal the surface, promotes better paint adhesion, and ensures consistent colour and coverage.
- Tape and Protect: Use Fleetwood Washi Tape to mask off areas you don’t want to paint, such as trim, windows, or ceilings. Apply the tape carefully and ensure it adheres properly to prevent paint bleed or smudges.
- Final Inspection: Before proceeding with paint application, inspect the walls once more to ensure they are clean, smooth, and properly prepared. Make any necessary touch-ups or repairs if needed.
Following these steps will help ensure that your walls are properly prepared for painting, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
Can I use the same paint for both interior and exterior surfaces?
There are many different types of paints for various surfaces, interior and exterior. It’s essential to carefully read the can or consult with a painting professional to determine if the paint you have chosen is appropriate for either interior or exterior use.
Factors such as durability, weather resistance, and the specific surfaces being painted should be considered. E.g our exterior paint is formulated to withstand the harsh Irish weather on masonry surfaces and would not be suitable for interior walls.