Prepare your surface and read all instructions before opening your can of paint.
Painting is a home improvement job that many people don't want to do too often. Increase your success on painting projects by properly preparing for your paint job and troubleshooting any issues before they arise. Many problems with failed paint jobs can be tracked back to improper surface preparation rather than a failure of the paint itself. Behr Process Corporation has certified coating professionals just a phone call away to assist you in creating a successful paint job.
Instructions
Before and During Application
1. Read all instructions on the can of Behr paint before beginning your application. Follow these instructions carefully to give your paint the best chance for adherence.
2. Check the temperature and humidity in the area to be painted. If the air is humid, your take longer to dry. If you are painting outside, make sure the temperature stays within the recommended temperatures for your paint for at least four hours after the job is finished.
3. Test the surface to be painted to ensure it is sound and able to be coated with latex paint. Rub your fingers along the wall. If it feels chalky or leaves a powdery residue on your fingers, you will need to wash the area with trisodium phosphate before painting. If you are unsure if your previous coating is latex or oil-based, pour rubbing alcohol onto a cotton ball. Wipe the cotton ball onto the wall. If paint comes off onto your cotton ball, it is latex-based and can be topcoated without a primer. If no paint is removed, your previous coat is oil-based and requires primer before latex paint will adhere.
4. Scrape or sand off any loose or flaking paint to ensure a firm foundation for your new topcoat to grip.
5. Prime any excessively glossy surfaces, rusty surfaces or oil-based surfaces.
6. Thin the Behr paint only if it seems too thick or sticky after attempting to roll or spray it onto your wall. Do not over-thin the paint -- use only the amounts recommended on the can.
After Application
7. Document the paint failure by taking pictures and trying to describe the way your paint is behaving. Is it sagging off the wall? Flaking up? Peeling?
8. Call and speak to a Behr professional at 1-800-854-0133, extension 2. Follow all menu prompts.
9. Describe the failure of your paint to the technician. Behr may ask for pictures or other information about the application of your paint, including air temperature, application method and what the weather was like.
10. Follow any instructions given to you by the Behr professional.
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