Ken Rader Interiors- " How to stain your deck"!

11 Keys to Staining Your Deck Like A Pro How to stain a deck By Ken Rader of Ken Rader Interiors Painter and Decorators in Northwest Arkansas. Most decks have never been treated. They look so good when they are first built and new wood is not ready to be treated. So with the passing of time we get used to the way the deck looks . Having spent many years working with paints and stains, I've seen many homeowners who end up dissatisfied with their deck staining projects. Either it didn't look as good as they thought that would, or it didn't last as long. Following these steps will help guarantee a great looking, long-lasting result. NO SHORT CUTS! Step 1: Take your Time That's right, the first step is "take your time". With every step of the staining process, take your time. When the project is completed and your tools are cleaned and put away, nothing will have had a greater impact on the quality of the job. Here's a few tips before you get started. Take your time to allow new pressure treated lumber to weather for a few months and dry out before staining it. Allow stain strippers to be left on the surface long enough to break down old finishes before you rinse it off. Take your time to prevent overspray and spills on non-target surfaces and wait to start your project until the weather forecast is favorable. Step 2: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation 1-wood-cleaner-before As the picture above shows you will need to clean the wood and get rid of as much of the gray and black that you can. Preparation is key to the final results. All wood needs to be cleaned well before staining, whether it's a brand new deck, or an older deck that's been out in the weather and needs to be re-stained. Brand new lumber needs to be cleaned to remove "mill scale". Mill scale is a crushing of the grain that takes place during the milling process. If it's left un-cleaned, it can prevent wood stains from properly penetrating into the wood surface. On an older deck, dirt, graying from the sun, mildew and old stains all need to be removed prior to staining. Sodium Percarbonate wood cleaners, also known as oxygen bleach wood cleaners, are a great choice for this step. They are highly effective at cleaning the wood, yet won't harm plant life and vegetation. Best of all, they won't hurt you either. Their soapy consistency won't burn your skin. If there is a build up of old stains on the deck then the job gets a little tougher but not impossible. Instead of a sodium percarbonate cleaner you'll need to use a stain stripper. Strippers are a little more caustic so follow the directions carefully. They work great and will remove most weathered stains in a single application. Lastly, if there are small spots of stain that won't come off during the cleaning process, they should sand off easily using a palm-type sander after the deck has dried. If those spots of stain are left on the deck, they will show through the new finish and detract from the deck's final appearance. Some stain manufacturers offer a free instructional video to help walk you through this entire process. They're a terrific tool to use to ensure that you do it right the first time. Check out a sample deck staining video here. Step 3: Brighteners are Beautiful tbrite-before-afterIn the deck staining process, no step is skipped more than this one. It's by far the easiest step to do and it will have a dramatic effect on the final results. Wood brighteners are easy to apply. They help open up the surface of the wood to improve penetration, neutralize any stain strippers that were used, and restore the appearance of old, weathered wood to like new again. That's a lot of things for one product to accomplish, but brighteners will do all of that so don't skip using them . To use them, simply spray them on, wait a few minutes, and rinse them off. No scrubbing, and no "elbow grease" needed. There are so many benefits and they're so easy, there's no reason to not use them! Step 4: Rinse like Mad Use lots and lots of water after using any cleaning chemicals. Even though some of these chemicals can seem safe and harmless, they all need to be rinsed off extremely well after they are used. Left in the wood, these chemicals can resurface over time and begin to attack and break down the new stain. So once you are done cleaning, rinse the deck thoroughly to get all of the chemicals out of the wood. Step 5: Stay Away from the Cheap Stuff Now that the deck is clean and dry, it's ready to be stained. Before you decide which stain to buy, keep in mind that you always get what you pay for. Better ingredients cost more money. If you expect premium results then you'll need to buy a premium product. There is a difference in quality when it comes to resins, pigments, mildewcides and many other materials that make up a gallon of wood stain. So stay away from the cheap stuff if you expect it to last. Step 6: Take a Look at Waterborne Stains Water based deck stains have become really popular in the last few years. If you have been reluctant to try them in the past, don't be reluctant any longer. Air quality regulations have forced manufacturers to really improve these products some are now better, more durable and longer lasting than conventional oil-based alternatives. They offer some distinct advantages to the user that oil base stains can't offer. Good quality water based stains clean up with soap and water, there are no nasty solvents to breathe, they have a significantly better resistance to weathering, the wood doesn't need to be completely dry to use them, they dry more quickly than solvents and they are much easier on the environment. Additionally, some of the waterborne stains are synthetic as well. Synthetic resin wood stains are far less susceptible to mold growth, mildew and algae. So if you're in area with a fair amount of moisture and humidity, there are some real advantages in waterborne synthetic stains. Step 7: Read the Can...Follow the Directions Every product is a little different so always read the label for directions. It only takes a few minutes and it will ensure that you have all of the right information before you get started. Pay attention to how many coats of stain to apply, how long to wait between coats, how long to wait after cleaning and how long to allow wood to weather. So read the label first and you're likely to get it right the first time. Step 8: More IS NOT always Better Decks are best stained with a semi-transparent wood stain. These types of products allow the natural grain of the wood to show through, allow the wood to naturally breathe, and are easily cleaned and reapplied. Pay attention to the directions and don't over apply these types of products. You'll end up with a beautiful, shiny finish that will probably peel off over time. When too much stained is applied a film can form, much like paint, that will no longer allow the wood to breathe. When this happens the end result will be peeling and that's a real mess. So only apply as much stain as the wood can easily absorb. Step 9: The Paint Brush is Still King There are a lot of different ways to apply the deck stain. Using a pump-up garden sprayer and roller are two popular methods. Regardless of how you apply your wood stain, keep a paint brush at hand. A paint brush will work the stain deep in to the pores of a board. The agitation and friction caused by a paint brush will cause the wood to absorb more stain. So if you are spraying or rolling the stain, always back-brush it in with a brush while the stain is still wet and you'll achieve much better penetration in to the wood. Watch the short video clip below for the best type of brush to use. Step 10: Remember...Take Your Time I told you at the start of this article to take your time. When your project is finally done, take a little extra time before you start using it. Let your deck dry out good before putting it back in use. The stain needs to cure out a bit before being subjected to the rigors of patio furniture and foot traffic. You've done everything right to this point, now make sure you allow it at least 24 hours to dry out before using it. Step 11: How about a Little Maintenance A small amount of effort can keep your deck looking great longer. Just as you would wash the dirt off of your car, wash down the surface of your deck every now and then to keep leaves and dirt from damaging the finish. If the deck stain starts to show signs of graying or loses its color, it can be easily cleaned up with a little wood brightener and a light maintenance coat of stain. That's it, that's all there is to it. Eleven keys to deck staining success. Go ahead and try them and see what the results are when you set out on your next project to do it like a pro. You may just surprise yourself! *Helpful Tips When using a wood cleaner, you can really speed the process up by using a scrub brush on the horizontal boards. These brushes can be found in the cleaning section of most home improvement stores. Get the type that can be attached to a 4 foot extension pole. With a scrub brush, cleaning the surface of the deck will be as fast as mopping your floor! When staining the deck rails take care not to splatter stain on the deck surface below as it will most likely leave unsightly darker spots when you are done. The easiest way to avoid this problem is to cover the deck below the rails as you work. I use the cardboard from the box the stain came in. You can cut out notches in the cardboard so it will fit snugly around the rail posts. ~ Hope this helps and inspires you to stain or treat you deck. It is really easy and make a big impact on the overall look of your home. Visit our web site at www.kenraderinteriors.com Ken Rader Interiors- Painters and Decorators in Northwest Arkansas As always " Happy Painting and Decorating."

Ken Rader Interiors "Arkansas Best Painters"-Helpful Hints for picking paint colors

Click on the Banner and visit our Web Page Picking house paint colors isn't just difficult. It's terrifying! Pick colors that are blah, and your house will seem flat and featureless. But if the colors you pick are too bold, they might overwhelm the architecture... and upset the neighbors. The best colors will highlight the most beautiful features of your home. Skillful use of color can even disguise design flaws, boosting the curb appeal and market value of your home. How do you find that magic color combination? Check out these exterior paint ideas. 1. Honor History If you're planning to paint an older home, you'll probably want to use a historically accurate color scheme. You can hire a pro to analyze old paint chips and recreate the original color. Or, you can refer to historic color charts and select shades that might have been used at the time your home was built. 2. Jazz Up the Past In some neighborhoods, homeowners fly in the face of history. Instead of choosing historically accurate colors, they paint their houses modern colors to dramatize architectural details. Using bright colors on old architectural details can produce startling and exciting results. But before you buy 10 gallons of bubblegum pink, it's a good idea to look at what your neighbors are doing. A fluorescent colored Victorian that looks splendid in San Francisco will seem wildly out of place in more conservative neighborhoods. 3. Consider Your Neighbors The house next door can give you paint color ideas, but don't copy your neighbor exactly. Choose colors that set your house apart, without clashing with nearby buildings. 4. Borrow From Nature The landscape around your house is blooming with color ideas. Trees may suggest an earthy palette of greens and browns. A beach setting might suggest vivid blues, turquoises, and coral colors. Even the garden in your front yard can inspire exciting color combinations. 5. Check the Roof Your house is your canvas, but it is not blank. Some colors are already established. What color is your roof? Your paint color doesn't need to match the roof, but it should harmonize. 6. Look For Things That Won't Be Painted Every home has some features that will not be painted. Does your house have brick walls? Vinyl windows? A natural wooden door? Will steps and railings remain their existing colors? Choose a color scheme that harmonizes with colors already present on your house. 7. Find Inspiration in Your Living Room It may seem comical to paint entire house based on the pattern of a pillow case, but this approach does make sense. The color of your furnishings will guide you in the selection of your interior paint colors, and your interior paint colors will influence the colors you use outside. Once again, your goal is to harmonize. 8. Focus on Details Depending on the size and complexity of your home, you may want to choose two, three, or as many as six colors. In addition to color for your siding, select accent colors for shutters, moldings, doors, window sashes, brackets, columns, and porch decks. But beware: too many colors will overwhelm your house. Too few can make your house seem flat and uninteresting. 9. Use Light to Add Size It's no wonder large, grand estates are often painted white. Light colors make a building look larger, and white is the favored color for traditional classical architecture. You can add to your home's sense of size and dignity by using white or a pale cream color. 10. Go Dark For Drama Dark siding or dark bands of trim will make your house seem smaller, but will draw more attention to details. Darker shades are best for accenting recesses, while lighter tones will highlight details that project from the wall surface. On traditional Victorian homes, the darkest paint is often used for the window sashes. 11. Discover Color Families Contrasting colors will draw attention to architectural details. But, extreme contrasts will clash and actually detract from details. To be safe, consider staying within a single color family. For some accents, try using a darker or lighter shade instead of a different color. 12. Strike a Balance A burst of a single color on just one part of your home may give it a lopsided appearance. Strive to balance colors over the entire building. You thought you only had to pick colors? Sorry! Here are a few pointers to keep in mind as you choose paint for your house painting project. House Paint Durability The more intense a color, the more likely it is to fade. After a few years, vivid blues and deep reds might seem more subdued. Dark colors can also pose more maintenance problems. Dark colors absorb heat and suffer more moisture problems than lighter shades. And because dark paint fades, it can be difficult to match exactly when you do small touch-ups. But, don't rule out dark colors. They won't show dust and stains, and can give your house a sense of dignity or drama. House Paint Sheen House paint comes in several sheens, ranging from glossy to flat. The glossier the surface, the more likely it is to show imperfections, brush strokes and touch up marks. On the other hand, glossy surfaces are easier to clean. Many homeowners opt to use flat paint for walls and semi-gloss or glossy paint for columns, railings and window sashes. Paint Color Deceptions Color swatches look very different when they are brought out of the store and viewed in natural sunlight. Also, colors appear lighter on large surfaces than they do on small samples. Chances are, you'll need a much darker color than the one you first picked. Always test your selected color in one area before buying gallons of paint. [contact-form][contact-field label='Name' type='name' required='1'/][contact-field label='Email' type='email' required='1'/][contact-field label='Website' type='url'/][contact-field label='Comment' type='textarea' required='1'/][/contact-form] KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION. WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT. And this time “ How to search the Web”. WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS. WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS. FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686 EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Northwest Arkansas Best Painters "Painting Problems you should know about"

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Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.  is happy to offer information all about painting and decorating.  Check out our Blog and we are sure that you will find other articles that offer information on a wide array of painting subjects.
This article will offer you some insight into some paint problems that you may have to deal with.
Peeling Paint

Another common symptom of a failed paint coat is when the paint peels off from the surface. The paint may commonly appear to curl and flake from the work surface for a number of reasons. Most commonly, the peeling occurs because of poor paint adhesion, due to improper prep work or lack of primer.
Before any new paint is applied to the exterior of your home, the surface must have the necessary "roughness" for the paint to grip to. Sanding and/or applying a layer of primer is sufficient to provide this "roughness."
Efflorescence

This condition most commonly occurs on painted masonry surfaces, such as brick or concrete. Efflorescence appears as crusty white salt deposits emerging through the paint film. This situation transpires when salts in the brick or concrete become dissolved with water, and then attach to the surface as the water evaporates.
Some common causes of paint efflorescence include moisture emanating from indoors, inadequately waterproofed below-ground walls, and poor surface preparation. If basement walls are not adequately waterproofed, ground water may penetrate the paint and induce efflorescence. Cracks in walls and other water damage are also common causes. If the concrete or mortar was not entirely cured and dried out when the paint was applied, or if prior efflorescence was not entirely removed before the last paint job, the condition may materialize.
Mildew/Mold
Another common symptom of failed paint is the appearance of mildew and mold. Mildew is easily recognized as dark green, brown, or black splotches on the paint surface, and is usually found in damp, shaded areas. Mildew is actually a living fungus which feeds and grows on paint film.

Mold spores can float through the air and form new colonies where they land. Mold and mildew have been found to cause several health problems, such as sinus problems, respiration problems, sleep difficulty, and an impaired immune system.

Mildew and mold is most commonly caused by heavy moisture, poor ventilation, and lack of sunlight. A combination of these conditions will provide an ideal habitat for mold and mildew to thrive and grow. Some of the most common areas on the exterior of your home where mildew may grow include the underside of soffits, eaves, and similar shaded areas.
Chalking

Paint chalking occurs as a formation of fine powder on the surface of the paint film. Chalking paint will rub off of the surface and get on to skin, clothing, etc. Chalking paint can also have a fading effect on the paint coat. Chalking is actually a natural cleanses process of paint, however, excessive film erosion can result in heavy chalking.
This problem is typically caused by the use of a poor quality paint, or the use of an interior paint on the exterior of the building. Before applying a new coat of paint, be sure to fully remove any excess chalk from the surface. Primer may also be needed.

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.
And this time “ How to search the Web”.
                     
WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING

Painters in Northwest Arkansas-"Old school skills"

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KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.
Painting Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Bella Vista “Beautiful, One house at a time”

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!
Recently I posted an article about painting paneling.  Thank you for all of the views and comments.  Some of the comments were on the subject of the preferred type of primer that should be used on the wood paneling. Several commented that they would use "Old School" priming". This was in reference to using Oil based primers verses Acrylic or water based.
I think that what they were really referencing was their painting skills and work ethic.  Let me qualify this a little with an observation or two.
Several years ago, actually in 1989 I purchased a new Ford Pickup.  Bright Red, which is my favorite color.  When I drove it home I got bugs on the front and everywhere there was a bug it removed the paint.  I was upset to say the least.  I took it back to the car dealer to give them a look at it.  "Bugs have acid in them" was the response I received from the shop foreman. "Acid?" I asked, yes he says.  So I took my new truck home will spots of white primer showing through where the bugs hit.
Some time later my sister shared with me a small article in a magazine that acknowledged that there was a problem with the primer that was used on vehicles from the years 1985 till the present.  As a result the manufacturer was doing a somewhat silent recall of the vehicles and re-painting them for free.  Well I took my truck to the car dealer again and after some debate got my truck a new paint job.
Perhaps you have seen some pickups driving around that are of the 1980's and 1990's that are missing big patches of paint.  Chevy's and Fords mostly.  They used the same primer.
Well my point is that Old School surely does not refer to old products.  Products for the most part have improved drastically over the last 30 to 40 years.  Cell phones are now digital instead of analog, TV's are Tubeless and High Definition, tires are now all Radial verses Bias cords.  The list could go on and Paint products have improved as well.
No more lead, the introduction of Acrylic and Titanium have revolutionized the industry.  There are still Oil based Primers on the market but they can only be used in certain states in the country.  To fill the gap painting companies have formulated some excellent non-oil primers.
So, on with my point.  I too have often referred to myself as "Old School".  This reference is made to my skills, methods and craftsmanship in the field of painting.  Ken Rader Interiors has been in business since 1987 and the products that we use has changed dramatically.
Painting with Oil and Lacquer produced a beautiful job but the paint would change as time went by.  The paint would yellow or gray, crack or flake depending on what was painted.  And during those years in the 80's and 90's latex paint was not the greatest product.  But they have come a long, long way.
The professional painting industry has undergone tremendous changes since we first started.  The biggest change that we have seen is the introduction of the "unskilled painter".  They are usually the cheapest bidder on a project and the methods that are employed are usually OUTDATED.
That being said, I would suggest that painters use the term "Old School Painting Skills" instead of "Old School".  The customer should know that you will use the most up-to-date products available.
Ken Rader Interiors uses all of the latest, tested and proven products on the marked.  We will occasionally use "Oil based" products but this is rare.
If there is a material or object that will not allow acrylic or water based primer to stick, then Oil base will not stick either.  This has proven true many times over the years on many of our projects.  I do want to mention that premium primers must always be used.  You cannot compare PVA primer with Oil based primer.  But you can compare Premium acrylic primers with Oil based primer.
Well, I hope this does not offend any painters.  The phrase " Old School" does cause people to think of a time when things seemed to be made better and with more care.  That however is really not the truth.  I like my new iphone much better than my first mobile mounted cell phone (Cellular One was the company) that's a blast from the past.  I also have a Red pickup that I bought new in 2001.  No paint problems.  170,000 miles and still going strong.  And Ken Rader Interiors is a fan of the new paint and primer combinations that are being offered today.
Ken Rader Interiors is " Old School Painting Skills" and proud of it.  If you have a painting project in your future we invite you to investigate the painting companies in your area.  You will find many of them are " Old School Skilled".  You will find it a true pleasure working with them.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

What Colors will I paint in 2013?

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!
I started off the new year by posting a couple of articles about the color trends for the coming year. I started with the interest in grey and then expanded into a wider range of colors.
These posts produced some lively discussions about color.  One person wanted to know by what authority I could offer these colors and that various other designers and magazines were in a much better position to make these decisions.  Others have been somewhat supportive yet are quite set in their own choices and picks in the color world.
As I recently mused another decorating article in a very popular magazine I was struck by the similarities of the colors being raved about and the colors that I had offered.  There was Purple, Pink, aqua blues and greens, orange,lime green, sort of an egg yolk yellow and a Sky Blue.
What I wanted to point out about these colors is that they are showing up in clothing, shoes, accessories, candles, lamp shades, rugs and pretty much any item that will have a somewhat shorter life of use than say carpet, draperies, couches, chairs and well you get the picture.
So, what will I be painting in 2013?  Purple, Pink, Aqua blue and green, lime green and egg yolk yellow.
You might be saying,"Are you Crazy!"  And the short answer is YES!  But it is in a relative sense.  The first relative that I will be painting these colors for is my wife.  ( gotcha)
We have lived in our home since 1987 and while it is a very humble abode we have succeeded in filling it with love and wonderful memories.  We have also filled it with a lot of furniture. The furniture that we have purchased is of high quality and it cost me a pretty penny.  The sofa alone "Henredon" cost me $10,000 dollars in 1998.  3 leather chairs, 3 ottomans and well you get the picture. These are as it were " set in concrete".  But, we have painted the inside of the house completely several times. These paint colors have been the latest in color choices.
We have been able to do this because the colors of the furniture pieces are timeless.  Nothing loud, plaid, striped.  Just Gold, reddish brown, buckskin, pretty much colors that have been around for years and will continue to do so.
The colors on the walls have run the gauntlet, Yellow, red, grass green, Catalina blue, periwinkle, burnt orange, and in my office, Royal Blue and dark espresso brown.  My office also has a concrete floor and so I can use a variety of rugs.
So, we are in the process of painting the living room, kitchen, hallways and dining room a spring grassy green.  Very hip and very cheerful.
We have some projects lined up that will likewise be some of the new color choices.  And we did help them pick out the colors.  (These people are not relatives though).  These are paying clients.  Some are clients that we have painted for in the past, though the not too distant past, and they want a little updating.
We did do another job for a relative in December but I am going to count it in 2013. It was an outside job of painting the house and separate garage.  The color was a sea foam green trimmed in linen white.   Beautiful.
These colors on the outside will be popular for 20 to 25 years and so will the paint job.  I mention this because while you will change the color inside you home every few years, you will not paint the exterior more that once in a lifetime.  So color choice is very important.  Pick something natural, calm, neutral.
2 years ago I painted a house that was pink inside and out. The original owner liked it but the new owners did not.  Everything had to go.  While the inside was a variety of favorite colors the outside was a deep forest green trimmed in white.  The owners know that the inside will be painted many more times as their family grows but the outside will remain as it is now for the next 20 to 25 years.
As a painter I enjoy all things paint.  It is fun to transform a room or a whole house by painting them.  The painting process can give you home a new lease on life.  You can make the house your home.
I think that is why paint is so popular.  In the 80's wallpaper was going big and I installed thousands of rolls of it.  But it did not have lasting power.  And it could not be easily or inexpensively changed.  Think of it, for a few bucks you can purchase a gallon of paint and with a few hours of work you can change a room completely and even though you have the same furniture, "It looks different"!   Smiles all around!
With so many problems and pressures in the world today, it is comforting to make little changes in our surroundings.  They make us smile and our friends and family enjoy the changes also.
So, I have shared with you what I am going to paint in 2013.  What about you?  Drop me a comment and let us know what you will paint in the coming year.  I'll bet that the color you land on is one of the latest choices.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!

KEN RADER INTERIORS-PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS PRESENTS"HOW TO PAINT THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOUSE

Ken Rader Interiors-- PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

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PAINTERS IN FAYETTEVILLE, SPRINGDALE, ROGERS, BENTONVILLE AND BELLA VISTA  ARKANSAS.
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How to Paint the Outside of My House

Painting the exterior of your house every few years is an important step in maintaining its visual appeal. A good paint job can also extend the life of your home's siding and trim, saving you money in the long term. Getting the job done right involves more than just applying a new coat of paint to your home's exterior. It requires careful planning and prep work. Follow the steps outlined in this guide and you will achieve professional-looking results.

         

Instructions

1. Steps for Painting Home Exteriors

   • 1
     Determine what color you want to paint your house. Your local paint dealer should have a variety of sample colors to choose from. If you want to keep the same color, bring a small piece of your siding and trim with you and your local paint store dealer should be able to match it.
   • 2
     Estimate the amount of paint you will need to complete the job. The precise formula used will vary depending on the type of surface you are painting, but the process typically involves determining the square footage of the area to be painted. Consult with your local hardware or paint store to find exactly what formula you should be using.
   • 3
     Use a scraper to remove any loose old paint from the surfaces you will be painting. Place a drop cloth beneath you to collect paint chips.  The use of a drop cloth sounds good but in reality it does not work very well.  The only time I use a drop cloth is when I want to cover shrubs, plants, sidewalks,decks and patios.  You can catch the majority of the paint chips and then just fold them up in the drop cloth and shake them out in a trash bag( a big one).
   • 4
     Fill any holes and cracks in your siding and trim using an appropriate filler or caulk.   I like to use 35 year latex caulk.  There is silicone that says it can be painted but it is very difficult to use, cost more and is in my opinion,"not the product to use".  I also like to use "DAP crackshot " to fill in any holes.  It can be painted, sanded and is high performance.
   • 5
     Remove any mold or mildew using a bleach-water solution or a professional-strength remover.
   • 6
     Sand all surfaces to be painted smooth using sandpaper. Employ a power pad  sander to save you time and energy.  do not use a belt sander!  Few people can control the monster and most house exteriors are not smooth to begin with so don't try and make them smooth.
   • 7 Clean all surfaces to be painted using a brush or power washer.  Use the power washer only in extreme conditions.  It is very powerful and can damage your house siding.  Usually you can just take a broom and brush off the house siding.  As long is there is not any oil or grease on the surface you can prime and paint it.
   • 8  Apply the first coat of primer, let it dry according to manufacturers instructions and then apply a second coat of primer.  The primer can be mixed with exterior paint at a ration of one to one.  So if you find some exterior paint at a bargain price like an "OOPS" paint at your paint store ,"GET IT".  It is going to be covered up with your good exterior paint.  The primer is used to seal the house and provide a sound surface for your paint.  This will make your paint job last much longer.
   • 9
     Apply a first coat of finish paint.  The use of an Airless paint sprayer will really help you in both the priming and painting application process.  Check in to how much it would cost you to purchase one.  It will pay for itself in the time it saves you. Airless paint sprayers put so much product on the surface that your second coat will only be a very light coat and basically to paint the spots you missed with your first coat.
   • 10
     Apply a second coat of finish paint. Light coat if using an airless.  You will still need to brush some areas of the house.  Be sure to get a good 4" brush with lots of bristles (Nylon/Polyester).
          

Tips & Warnings

Additional tools that you will find helpful are:
1.  Masking Machine( you will find them at The Home Depot or Lowes or Ace Hardware)  cost about $50.00 but well worth it.
2.  1" masking tape and 9" masking paper ( both used on the masking machine)
3. House scraper and Wire Brush
4. A good step ladder and a good extension ladder.  ( Try the "Little Giant".  It is both an adjustable step ladder and can be used as a 22' extension ladder.  It is solid and will not throw you off like a cheap aluminum ladder will do.  Aluminum step ladders are almost alive and wild unbroken horses.
5. Box your paint.  That means mixing as many gallons together as you can, usually 5 gal. and then keep adding to to bucket as you use it.  This will make the color from one can to the next blend.  Then you won't see the difference from one gal. to the next gal.  There is always, "Always", a slight difference that can be seen if you do not mix the gallons together.

• A variety of scraping tools are available on the market today, each designed for dealing with different situations you may encounter while removing old paint. No one scraper is likely to do it all, so purchasing multiple scrapers can make the job a lot easier. When painting, start at the top and work your way down so any paint drips won't land on a surface you've already painted.
• Never paint a wet surface, and always check the weather before you start to paint. You should paint only when dry, sunny weather is forecast for the next 24 to 48 hours. Inhaling paint dust and fumes is hazardous to your health. Always wear protective gear, including safety goggles and a dust mask when scraping and sanding, and a vapor mask when painting. Homes built prior to 1980 may contain hazardous lead paint, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Test old paint to make sure it is not made from lead. If lead paint is present, do not proceed on your own. Contact a professional who can remove lead paint safely.

This should give you some help.  Some of the painting process you will learn as you go along.  Each project or house is unique and presents it's own problems and issues.  Just keep in mind the principles of removing loose paint, repairing, 2 coats of primer and 2 coats of paint.

As a professional with 38 years of experience I have painted a wide variety of house surfaces.  Some good and some bad.

People always ask, " How long will it take?"

My first response if they are going to be painting the house themselves is" It's all relative".  In other words, "How many of your relatives will be helping you".  My next response is a series of questions,  " How big is the house, One story or two, How tall is it, How much surface will be painted, How many colors?

But here is a rule of thumb," A one story house with end gables about 24 feet tall that has easy access all around (not too many bushes) and of a size of about 2,000 sq. feet.  You should be able to paint the house in 5 to 7 days.  But they will be full days.  At least 6 hours of continuous work each day.

One more bit of advice:  Do one side of the house at a time.  Scrape it, repair it, caulk it, prime it and paint it.  Then move on to another side.  This will educate you about what you will need to do on each side and it will give you a goal that is attainable.  If you get called off of the project it won't look so bad and you will have a definite place to start when you get back to it.

I know you will be successful with your painting project.  Professionals make it look easy and it is for them.  The homeowner will not get as good a result as the professional but that is why you hire the professional.  However, the homeowner can do an amazing job if they are willing to take their time and follow the steps we have outlined.  DO NOT SKIP ANY OF THEM! AND DO NOT RUSH THE PROJECT!

       

             

AS ALWAYS,”HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. --  Painting Northwest Arkansas Beautiful, “ One house at a time”.

Serving Northwest Arkansas and the greater Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bella Vista area.
 Professional Painters since 1987.

Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com
Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Ken Rader

Painting Momma's House

PAINTING MOTHERS HOUSE
TRANSFORMING THIS 40 YEAR OLD HOUSE.
By Ken Rader Interiors
Painters in Fayetteville Arkansas and serving all of Northwest Arkansas
This fall we are painting my mothers house.  We are also video taping the complete process and will post it on YouTube.
Until then I will share some photos with you to show you the progress.
We have been working on the house for 4 days.  First was the scraping of the house followed by caulking and priming.
[slideshow]
This house was painted about 15 years ago with 8 year paint.  So, it is in pretty bad shape.  It required a lot of scraping and caulking.  You can see from the pictures that most of the paint scraped off down to the wood.
This time around we are priming and sealing they siding.  You will notice that the primer is different colors, sea foam and purple.  This is the result of several tinted primers being combined.  This saves on the expense and it introduces an element of surprise and fun.  The other 2 sides of the house and the 3 car garage will be different colors of primer as well.
The color of the paint is "Carrage House"  Kind of a mossy green.  The Trim will be "Linen" and the front door will be "Red".
The siding on 2 sides have now been painted and the trim will be painted tomorrow.  We will also continue with the scraping and caulking.  We will work on the front of the house tomorrow.
The video will show the complete process as well show you all of the tools that are being used.  We will show you how to mask off the windows and fill in some big holes that the birds have made.
The paint that we are using is Behr paint and primer combination which is a real pleasure to use.  This should be the last paint job that this house will need.
Stay tuned and follow the progress to the finish.
Today is Thursday and for most it is a day off of work.  NOT FOR KEN RADER INTERIORS!  Today we continued on with the exterior house painting of my mamma's house.  Today was a big day and we are very proud of what we accomplished.
We scraped, caulked, filled some damaged places on the siding and then primed and painted the front of the house.
Two coats of primer and 2 coats of paint.
[slideshow]
Next will be the east side of the house.  Scraping, caulking, priming and painting.  Something extra that we will be doing is using a block filler/primer on the cement blocks so that they can be painted the same as the house.  The block filler/primer will make sure that the paint sticks and will not crack or fail.
Once the house is completed we will move on to the 3 car garage.
As of today we have used 15 gal. of primer and 8 gal. of paint.  As you can note, using primer cuts down on the amount of paint needed for the finish spraying.  This saves money and will help the paint job last considerably longer.
When you paint the exterior of your house you are doing more than changing colors.  You are putting on a weather proof coat that will protect the wood from further damage from sun, rain, wind or ice and severe temperatures.
We will continue to keep you up to date with the project.
AS ALWAYS,”HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. --  Painting Northwest Arkansas Beautiful, “ One house at a time”.

Serving Northwest Arkansas and the greater Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bella Vista area.
 Professional Painters since 1987.

Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com
Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Ken Rader

PAINT YOUR HOUSE AND MAKE IT A HOME

Painting Your House Upgrades, New Paint will make it a HOME!

OPTIONS FOR PAINTING YOUR HOUSE

There are plenty of options to upgrade your home. Painting your house is one of the best ways to change the look and feel of the home from the inside out. A fresh paint job makes a home look sharp and feels clean. The upgrade can be done quickly and is one of the more practical home improvements. This upgrade is always suggested when trying to sell a home. Overall it is generally safe to say that painting your house is one of the most popular and cost friendly upgrades.
Painting your house can always be considered a part of home maintenance. Not only do paint jobs and touchups clean up a house but they can drastically change the aesthetics of a room or exterior of a home. Nicks and dings are bound to make their way to your walls and doorways. Keeping leftover paint is always suggested to help make touchups easy. Professional companies can also come make free in home estimates and match exact color swatches if you do not have leftover paint of your existing color.
A new paint job can be made throughout the inside and outside of the home. Any room can enjoy a number of different services to enhance its look and feel. Everything from the ceiling to the floors and woodwork can benefit from a new paint job. The ceiling alone has multiple different upgrade options. Homeowners have to consider what color to use, if they want to add any texture, or if they want to remove any current texture there is on the ceiling. Hiring professionals to handle these tasks is always suggested. They are trained to safely paint hard to reach spots, high walls, and ceilings. Decks and garage floors are two more examples of paint upgrades that can be made throughout the home.
Painting your home not only upgrades it, but it adds style! Moving into a new house often means starting from a blank canvas of white or eggshell walls. Adding interior design can be quickly done with paint jobs and lets you custom decorate any room. Changing wall colors can add depth to a room, add comfort, and open a space up without having to spend a lot of money.
Hiring a contractor to handle your upgrades is always a smart idea. Not only can they give you free home estimates, but they can match exact colors and complete jobs quickly. Their professional services are available for a full range of services inside and out.
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. services Northwest Arkansas including the cities of Fayetteville, Rogers, Bella Vista, Springdale and Bentonville.
Check out our web site www.kenraderinteriors.com
Also like our facebook page   www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors
As always “ Happy Painting and Decorating”
Success with your project
Ken Rader

EXTERIOR COLOR SCHEME-FIVE TIPS TO CHOOSE YOUR COLOR

EXTERIOR COLOR SCHEMES

FIVE TIPS TO SUCCESSFULLY PICK YOUR COLOR!

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR NEXT COLOR.

COLOR TRENDS, PAINTS AND GOOD PAINTING PRACTICE

Do you plan on sprucing up your home exteriors this fall?  Or, are you considering placing you home on the market?  No matter what the reason, a fresh coat of paint can immediately revive the overall appearance of what typically is your largest investment, YOUR HOME.

   When it comes to exterior painting, many people chose to repaint using the same colors that already exist on the house.  However, choosing a new color scheme can be exciting and provide a new and updated look.  In addition, remind yourself that refreshing your home with a new paint job is one of the most cost-effective projects you can invest in and one that truly adds value.

   Choosing a new color scheme might seem daunting at first; however, here are some suggestions that will help and guide you through the color selection process.

1. CONSIDER THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE HOME

Some architectural styles, such as Victorian, lend themselves to elaborate four and even five-color schemes. Others, like Georgian or Colonial styles, are better-suited to two or three colors.  Usually this includes a main body color and one or two accent colors for trim, shutters and doors.

    2.   NOTE THE MATERIAL OF CONSTRUCTION

         If the home is made of wood, brick, masonry or aluminum siding, IT CAN BE     PAINTED virtually any color.  However, if it has vinyl siding, it might be best to paint it a similar hue to the original, although newer paints on the market have been formulated to allow for a wider choice on this surface.  And several primer/sealers of the acrylic variety will stick to the vinyl siding and allow premium exterior paint of any color to be applied. These include Bulls Eye 1-2-3, Glidden Gripper, Kilz Total Premium.  If you read the labels of these products you will see that they claim to stick to any surface.  I have used all three of these and they deliver on their promise.

   3.  TAKE FIXED COLORS INTO ACCOUNT

   Consider the colors on and near the house that cannot, or will not, be painted.  This includes the roof color and wood, masonry or stone that will be left unpainted.  Just remember that all of these surfaces can be painted with the technology of paints and primers that are on the market today.

4.      CONSIDER THE SURROUNDINGS

Look at the hues of neighboring homes and buildings-particularly those that are right next door. You would not want to suggest a color that is exactly the same as your neighbor’s home, and conversely, you don’t want to clash with it either.  Also, be sure to take into account any plantings that are in your yard or landscaping.  If your house is in a neighborhood where the houses are fairly close together, then you would likewise consider the plantings and landscaping of a nearby neighbor.  This can make your house and property appear larger than it is when it compliments what is next door.

5.      CHECK FOR RESTRICTIONS

Some historical districts, newer developments, and townhome or condominium communities have restrictions on what paint colors or color combinations may be used.  To avoid disappointment, it’s best to find out about these limitations before choosing and applying new hues.

Well, there you have it, 5 excellent tips to help you pick your new color for your home.  This is the easy process.  Next comes, the painting process.  This is probably the most difficult and misunderstood process of all home improvement projects.  I know, you have been bombarded with the idea that you can do it yourself.  Yes you can, but at what cost.  I mean, what will it going to cost you in your time, energy and any relationship you have with your mate or neighbors.  It can be ugly.  Please give consideration to hiring the professional painter for this.  Exterior painting is a different animal than interior painting.  It is a big ugly animal that will bite you, maul you and leave you whimpering on the ground.  I have seen this happen and witnessed this ugly truth.

Check out our web page at www.kenraderinteriors.com

Look us up and like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors.

Be sure and check out our other blog posts.  We have endeavored to cover a wide range of subjects within the painting industry.

Also, if you are in need of carpet cleaning or carpet cleaning advice, please visit our partner site www.kleensmart.net and look up our blogs on www.kleensmart2012.wordpress.com

As always “Happy Painting and Decorating”

Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.     Serving Northwest Arkansas U.S.A.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COLOR. SO, YOU'RE IN A MOOD.

The Psychology of Color

What Color is your Mood?

By Ken Rader-Ken Rader Interiors l.l.c.

Of the many things in our world that affects us, Color is on the top of the list.  You cannot escape color.  It is ubiquitous.  Yet what does it all mean?  Why are people more relaxed in green rooms?  Why do weightlifters do their best in blue gyms.

Colors often have different meanings in various cultures.  And even in Western societies, the meanings of various colors have changed over the years. But today in the U.S., researchers have generally found the following to be accurate.

   BLACK

Black is the color of authority and power.  It is popular in fashion because it makes people appear thinner, that’s right thinner.  It is also stylish and timeless.  Black also implies submission.  Some fashion experts say a woman wearing black implies submission to men.  I am not a fashion expert so I am not saying anything about this.  Black outfits can also be overpowering, or make the wearer seem aloof or evil.  Villians, such as Dracula,  often are portrayed in Black.

WHITE

Brides wear white to symbolize innocence and purity.  White reflects light and is considered a summer color.  White is popular in decorating and in fashion because it is light, neutral, and goes with everything .  However, white shows dirt and is therefore more difficult to keep clean that other colors.  Doctors and nurses wear white to imply sterility.  Painters, of which I am one, also wear white.  It implies clean and neat though some of my white pants have every color that I have painted in the last 2 years on them.  You start wearing them like they are some kind of badge of excellence, I think.

RED

The most emotionally intense color, red stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing.  It is also the color of love.  Red clothing gets noticed and makes the wearer appear heavier. You disagree?  I’m just sayin’.  Since it is an extreme color, red clothing might not help people in negotiations or confrontations.  Red cars are popular targets for thieves and get stopped more often by the police for speeding.  In decorating, red is usually used as an accent.  Decorators say that red furniture should be perfect since it will attract attention.

The most romantic color, PINK, which is a variation of red, is more a tranquilizing.  Sports teams sometimes paint the locker rooms used by opposing teams  right pink so their opponents will lose energy.  Pink is also a symbol of hope and cure.

BLUE

The color of the sky and ocean, blue is one of the most popular colors.  It causes the opposite reaction as red.  Peaceful, tranquil blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, so it is often used in bedroom.  Blue can also be cold and depressing.  Fashion consultants recommend wearing blue to job interviews because it symbolizes loyalty.  People are more productive in blue rooms.  Studies show weightlifters are able to handle heavier weights in blue gyms.  I tried it.  I am not a weightlifter so guess what?  It did not help me.

Food for thought.  While blue is one of the most popular colors it is one of the least appetizing.  When food is dyed blue and is served, study subjects lose appetite.  Perhaps we can come up with a” Blue Diet”.

GREEN

Currently the most popular decorating color, green symbolizes nature.  It is the easiest color on the ey and can improve vision.  It is a calming, refreshing color.  People waiting to appear on TV sit in ”green rooms”.  Hospitals use green because it relaxes patients.  Brides in the Middle Ages wore green to symbolize fertility.  Dark Green is masculine, conservative, and implies wealth.  It is not by chance that the phrase “Green” is used to described environmentally safe products.

YELLOW

Cheerful sunny yellow is an attention getter.  While it is considered an optimistic color, people lose their tempers more often in yellow rooms and babies cry more in yellow surroundings.  It is the most difficult color for the eye to take in, so it can be overpowering if overused.  Yellow enhances concentration, HENCE THE YELLOW LEGAL PAD.  It also speeds metabolism so it is a very popular color for dining rooms.

PURPLE

The color of royalty, purple connotes luxury, wealth and sophistication. It is also feminine and romantic.  However, because it is rare in nature, purple can appear artificial.  Purple is the color of my high school.  We were “The Purple Bulldogs”, that sounds ferocious.

BROWN

Solid, reliable brown is the color of  earth and is abundant in nature.  Light brown implies genuineness while dark brown is similar to wood or leather.  Brown can also be sad and wistful.  Men are more apt to say brown is on of their favorite colors.  I painted the exterior of my house “Espresso Brown”.  My home is in the country and blends in with the surroundings,  I think is was the perfect choice.

Well, there you have it.  You may or may not agree with my thoughts on color.  But I do think that there is a measure of truth in what I have presented.  Check it out, you may surprise yourself at how each different color affects you or those around you.

Of the many wonders of this beautiful planet that we live on, color is the most spectacular.  Blue skies, green grass and trees, the endless variety of color in the animal kingdom, rich dark dirt, cotton white clouds, flowers of every color and of course “ The Rainbow”.  Drink it in, enjoy it everyday.  It is a gift from our creator.  We do not need color to live or survive but oh how wonderful it makes life.

As always “ Happy Painting and Decorating”

Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Visit our web site at www.kenraderinteriors.com

Smiles

Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Serving Northwest Arkansas since 1987

Painting Tips you can use

Top House Painting Tips For Beginners

By Kenneth D. Rader-  Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

After watching some home makeovers, you would definitely notice that redefining the interior color of any residence gives it a fresh and comfortable look. Consequently, homeowners get the itch to do the same. Those who cannot hire professionals for the task, search for house painting tips which can get them carry on with the task by themselves. Do you want to give this a try as well? Learn from the following insights.

1. Cover Up - To start off, cover any fixtures attached on the walls or ceilings. Cabinets, wall or hanging lamps, light switches and faucets among others must be properly covered. This will keep them from getting unwanted paint drips.

2. Smooth Your Walls - Scrutinize your walls for imperfections. They could have acquired holes, chips or cracks through time. Patch the holes and cracks. Even out the chips. You will need enough patching paste and putty knife to get this right.

3. Dust Off - This is key in painting a house. Painting over dust-filled walls causes premature cracking and peeling of dry paint. Thus, it is important to clean your walls, baseboards, ceilings and crown moldings. Use damp cloth in doing so. This will keep the dust from fluttering.

4. Choose The Right Paint - When it comes to the color, it is best to consider the suggestions of the people who are living with you. You do not want this home makeover task be the cause of cold war amongst you, right? Once the hues have been decided upon, purchase some test gallons. Coat sections of your wall so that you can get a view of the finished effect. Moreover, decide on the type of paint you opt to purchase - latex-based or oil-based. When it comes to protection against daily wear and tear, oil-based coat is the better option. For that, they are expensive. When it comes to cleaning ease of cleaning, latex-based is the coat to go for as it can be cleansed with soap and water.

5. Pick The Right Brush - This is one of the commonly neglected house painting tips. Brushes are made up of natural materials or synthetic materials like nylon. Keep in mind that natural bristles go with oil-based coats, stains and varnishes. Latex-based coats, on the other hand, require nylon bristles.  For woodwork you will need a softer brush and for the walls you will enjoy using a brush that is stiffer and will hold a line.

6. Apply The Primer - Never apply the paint without priming the surface first.  There are Paint and Primer combinations on the market now and they work great.  The paint companies finally listened to the consumer on this one. This can cover up the patches that you made on the walls. Before proceeding with the priming or paint and primer combination, open your windows for proper ventilation. Roller brushes are the best tools for priming. Remove excess lint on in it with the use of masking tape. Lint would mix with the coat if not removed.

7. Mix The Coats –Most premium paints will stay mixed up for about 30 days and so there really is no need to stir it up.  But  a paint stick with holes would get your mixing right. For consistent color on all of your walls, use a big bucket to mix all your paint. This is advisable especially for large rooms.  Even if you have 2 gal. mix them together.

8, To finish off these house painting tips, eliminate the paint fume by leaving windows open for a few days. Additional natural remedies to this include placing bowls filled with vinegar and baking soda in the room. Onions also absorb paint fumes fast.

A little additional advice.

These tips are relatively simple and easy to follow.  Take the time to follow each one and you will be successful in your painting endeavors.

Of course, hiring a professional painter will eliminate the need for all of these tips.  I know that in this economy it is a difficult decision to spend the money on something that you think you can do yourself.  Always think about what your time is worth and the end result.  You pay a professional for a professional job and 99% of the time that is what you get. 

As Always “Happy Painting and Decorating”

Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Visit our web page at www.kenraderinteriors.com

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Serving Northwest Arkansas with the finest in painting and decorating. Making our community beautiful one house at a time.

MONEY SAVING TIPS WHEN PAINTING YOUR HOUSE

PAINTING YOUR HOUSE?

MONEY SAVING IDEAS!

When you need house painting either inside or outside, there are a few things that you should consider. Painting may seem like a very easy thing to do, but only when it is done properly. If you do not plan, painting can become a very expensive mess.  However, planning ahead is not complicated.
1. Paint: How much do you need?
One of the first things that you should do is decide how much paint you are going to need for the job. This is very important because you do not want to waste your money on buying more paint than you need. It is also important because if you have a custom color mixed and you run out, it is not always easy to have the same shade mixed twice. Plan on having at least half a gallon left over.  You can use it for touch up.
2. How to Measure for paint
Paint can be expensive, too. Some brands cost more than $60 for a gallon. You will need to take accurate measurements of the space you need to paint. So, measure the length of your walls and the height. If your room is 12 x 12 with 10 foot ceilings, you will need to multiple 12 x 4 x 10, which will be 480 square feet. You will then need to deduct square footage for the windows and door spaces. Example: Most gallons of paint cover between 300 and 350 square feet, so you will need at least three gallons to get two good coats of paint on the walls.  You always need to do two coats. ALWAYS!
3. Materials other than paint: Tape, Drop Cloths, and More
You will need more than just paint to get a room painted properly. You will need brushes, a ladder, and so much more. Painting can be a very messy job, so the first thing you will need is a good set of drop cloths. You do not want to have paint splatter on your flooring, so covering it is a necessity. Another vital piece of equipment is painters tape or a cutter. Painting in corners and around window and door trim takes precision and a very still hand; most people need a little help to get that part of the job done well. If you are painting in an interior room with low ventilation, you should buy a mask, so you do not breathe in pain fumes. The brushes you choose can also make or break your experience; you should talk to the paint store employees about the best materials for the job. It is not unusual to spend around $75.00  for materials other than paint.
4.  Paint Sprayer: To Rent or To Buy. Yes you can rent them.
If you have a large paint job to carry out, you might want to consider renting or buying a paint sprayer. The technology in paint spraying has come a long way; the sprayers are easier to use and to clean. If you use a sprayer, you can get the walls painted faster than if you use a brush or a roller. If you have rooms with unusual spaces, sprayers can get into those areas easier than rollers and brushes can. Some paint sprayers cost around $100.00 for a residential use model, but a professional sprayer for painting really big jobs can be over $400.
When you need house painting, it is important to consider all of your options and necessities. Many people prefer to use professional painters so they do not have to worry about all the things that can go wrong.  This usually is the best route to take.  Why?  Well, what is your time worth?  Also, the job will be done to perfection, really.  And you won’t worry about what to do with the tools when the job is done.  That is another point.  The job will be finished, something that usually takes longer when you try and do it yourself.
Well, there you have it. 
As always, “Happy Painting and Decorating”
Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors
Visit our web site www.kenraderinteriors.com
Ken Rader Interiors
Ken Rader