Ken Rader Interiors Presents- Tips on how to paint.

Many good tips and solid training on how to paint. Ken Rader Interiors offers in home color consultation in Northwest Arkansas

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."

Arkansas Best Painters- Painting Cabinets

We have posted 3 videos about painting cabinets. These cabinets are located in a home office. The videos show the condition before we begin and the sanding process and the primer applied. Videos are located at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors. Give them a look and watch the progress.

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

Ken Rader Interiors-Northwest Arkansas Best Painters talks about painting problems you can avoid

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The biggest threat to a good paint job? The clock.
From choosing a great color that somehow turns hideously wrong to completing a paint job that looks gorgeous and then starts peeling, most painting mistakes trace back to a lack of prep work.
If you want to make sure your next paint job looks like something out of a home decorating show, here are the biggest mistakes pros see -- and how you can prevent them:
Dreaming up colors. Pulling your color selections out of thin air. "The best way to choose a color for your space is to start with an inspiration that is visual,"says Cathie Rader Interior Decorator with Ken Rader Interiors. It can be a rug or a photo from a magazine. In either case, you aren't left trying to describe your idea of a color. You can simply point to it. Best of all, since your example has already been created by professionals well-versed in color, it's an almost foolproof way to come up with other complementary colors to use in your room design.
Pursuing trends. Never mind what the "hot" colors are this year. You're living with your choices. Choose hues that make you happy. One good clue for you is to consider what solid colors you wear most often -- besides black and white.  Beware, the up to date colors will be most pleasing to you over your old stand by.
Ignoring warm and cool. Not acknowledging that color can change the perception of a room. Warm colors "are expansive," says Cathie Rader- Interior Decorator . Use them for social areas, like a great room or dining room. Cool colors are calming. They can be great for a home office or bedroom.
Forgetting the ceiling. "It's the fifth wall," says Cathie Rader. But even experts disagree on how it should be painted. If you expect to paint your ceiling a color, consider going a few shades lighter because ceilings tend to look darker. Some designers prefer a white ceiling. A decorator's white (not a stark white) will give you a sharp definitive line from painted walls and highlight whatever architecture you have. Others want the ceiling in the same color family as the walls. "If you paint the walls a rich color and leave the ceiling white, it will do the opposite of what you want" by calling attention to it, says Rader. Instead, she prefers a variation on the wall color. If your ceilings are above nine feet, go one shade darker than the wall color, he says. That will bring the ceiling "down" and make the room appear cozier. If the ceilings are nine feet or less, use a color a shade or two lighter than the walls.
Thinking all paint is the same. You have latex and oil. You have a variety of paint finishes from flat to eggshell (matte with just a hint of gloss), to semi-gloss and high-gloss. For a bedroom, you might choose flat or eggshell, while the adjoining bathroom gets the same paint shade in a more water resistant semi- or high-gloss.
Not using best tools. One example: a paint-edger kit. It's a mini-roller with a brush guard that lines up with woodwork and trim. It allows you to paint close to the trim without actually painting the trim. "It's so much easier and you don't have to go through taping," says Rader. Cost: around $26.
Not asking for help. This one time it really pays to patronize the small, specialty paint stores, says Rader. "You're buying more than paint, you're buying expertise," she says.
Buying insufficient paint. Get all your paint and tools at once. That way, once you start, you don't have to stop. To ensure you have enough paint, measure the room. Pad in a little extra, just in case. And read the label on can to determine how much you need for the space. When it doubt, ask questions at the paint store.
Not buying the right tools. Different paints, walls and wall textures will require different tools. To paint around trim and windows, use a brush. For large, open areas, use a roller. Textured walls will require a roller with more nap.

Not having a plan of attack. One pro trick: When you apply a coat of paint, go around the room with the brush and do all the edges and corners first, then go back with the roller and apply a coat of paint to the rest of the wall.
Not considering hiring a pro. Even with little or no experience, painting can be fun if you enjoy it. If you don't, it might pay to hire a pro. Or, if your spouse enjoys painting and you don't, have he or she tackle it with a friend while you contribute something else to the home fix-up project. Ken Rader Interiors often recommends best-friend painting teams over husband-wife ventures. "Very few couples can do this" and stay on great terms throughout the project, says Rader.
Not considering painter's tape. OK, this one is a matter of personal preference and experience. Some pros will tell you not to waste the time, while others swear it can make the results look really first rate. And you definitely don't want to be without it if you're doing any sort of striped or geometric look that involves painting a straight line.

There are several other tricks of the trade.  Most of them have been addressed in other blog posts by us.  Check them out
Drop us an email at kennethrader@att.net   Follow us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors
As always " Happy Painting and Decorating

Ken Rader tells you how to repair sheetrock

Some Basics that you will find helpful
By:  Ken Rader, Professional Painter in Fayetteville Arkansas

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It wouldn't be at all uncommon for you to find a need to repair drywall in your home that has been damaged or you may find an occasional protruding drywall nail head or screw head that will require attention. If you choose to repair these damaged places, you might need a few tips. Here are 4 steps that will be of help to you in repairing damaged drywall.
Step 1 – Fill Dents or Holes

If your dent is shallow—that is, if it is ½" or less in depth—you will be able to patch it using only joint compound. If it is deeper, or if you have a hole through the drywall, you will need to apply a patch over the damaged area. For a shallow dent, spread a layer of mud (joint compound) over the dent. Then, cut a small piece of drywall paper or fiberglass screen and press it onto the drywall surface. The patch should cover the hole but should also leave a flat, even surface. Using your joint knife or putty knife, spread another layer of joint compound over the screen and allow the compound to dry.
You can use fast setting drywall compound.  It comes in a bag and is designed to set up and dry in 20 minutes, 45 minutes and 90 minutes.  I would recommend using either the 45 minute or 90 minute mix.  You have to be really fast if you want to use the 20 minute stuff.  It will set up in your mud pan and is a real job to get it cleaned out.  They are all easy sand and so you can fill and put on the final coat in just a couple of hours.

Step 2 – Apply Compound a Second Time
When the compound covering the patch is dry and you begin sanding, you may discover that the patch surface is slightly indented. If it is, apply another coat of compound and level its surface by drawing the flat edge of your joint knife across it. Be sure the surface is level. When it has dried and after you have sanded you find that the surface is still indented, apply another layer of compound. You can use regular joint compound for the final coating.  Just add a little water to it so that it will smooth easier.  Thin coats dry pretty fast.

Step 3 – Repair Protruding Nail Heads or Screw Heads
When finding a protruding nail or screw head, test it to determine if it is loose or whether it has simply not been driven deeply enough into the drywall and joint. Occasionally, a nail or screw will be driven into the drywall but will miss the stud into which it should have been driven. Pull these nails out of the drywall and fill the hole as described in Step 1. If the nail (or screw) is driven into the wall stud, but is not driven below the drywall surface, use a hammer or screwdriver to hammer it in or drive it further into the wall stud. The head will need to be sunk below the surface of the drywall. Then fill the depression with compound as described in Step 1.  It is usually best to use a drywall screw next to a nail that has popped.  This will keep the nail from popping again.  Be sure and recess the screw head into the drywall and fill the area with compound.


Step 4 – Sand and Paint
When the compound is dry the color in the center will be the same light shade as the color of the compound at the outer edge and you need to use your sand block and sandpaper to sand the surface. Using the sand block will be necessary to insure that the entire surface of the damaged area is flat and is the same level as the surrounding surface.  You can do what some describe as wet sanding.  Use a big sponge like they used for cleaning tile and lightly go over the compound.  Work with it just a little and you will see how you can remove some of it just like sanding, only without the dust. Finally, wipe the dust left from sanding and apply a coat of primer.  Use a premium acrylic primer that will dry in about one hour and you can paint it within 2 hours. When the primer is dry, apply a coat of paint that matches the rest of the wall.

Read more: We offer several articles that will help you make repairs, paint, wallpaper, strip wallpaper and choose you style of decor.

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!”

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
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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

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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.

Choose the Professional Painter and save yourself the stress

House Painters – Choosing the right Professional Painter is easier that you think.

 

Your Home is your Castle, when you're looking to make a alteration or improvement to it, you have to consider not only the final finished product, but likewise the experience, and of course professional behavior and all around worth that goes into the project. When you think about house painters, you can measure their service from the bottom up to see if they perform up to a professional level.
When you hire a painting contractor, the expense of materials consumes a significant portion of the currency you pay. Quality House Painters simply use only the highest quality materials to guarantee that your painting investment endures and looks attractive for many years.  If they use cheap paint, DO NOT HIRE THEM!
Of course, the labor itself is the other major cost, and if a house painting company employs the right people, that can go a long way towards ensuring you receive quality for your money.  The best companies are usually owned and operated by one person or perhaps a husband and wife team.  They usually do all the work thus keeping control of quality and time spent on the job. That means that the company has to invest in itself and its employees, with the proper compensation, benefits and treatment, to ensure that the benefits of high quality employment is passed along to you.
The work of completing a chore also has to come with safe procedures and efficiency. Is the company insured?  It is a valid and good question.  Accidents must be prevented, or repairs may have to follow.  Is the company properly licensed?  It is very rare these days to find that licenses are not needed.  Rather, with each passing year more licenses are required, both state and usually city. Projects ought to be completed within the budget or estimate, and on schedule with what has been projected. Meeting these challenges is the distinguishing factor of a true high quality company.
When you employ skilled and qualified House Painters, you will be getting much more than coats of paint on your walls. They are experts in their field, bringing all of their experience along to your project to insure superior results. Skilled house painters will do surface preparation to guarantee a flawless finish, and will spot potential troubles before the work starts.  A skilled professional is proud of his work and it is the best advertising he can have.  So he will do the best job possible.
This kind of skill and professionalism can only come with experience. House painters of this level of skill and knowledge can accurately judge the amount of paint and other materials are needed, and will have all of the tools or gear required to complete a job of any type, or deal with any and all issues which may arise.
So if you are getting ready for a painting and fixing up project this year make your selections wisely. Purchasing experience and professionalism will make a big difference. Scan their reviews, ask for references, and check to see if they are A+ rated with the Better Business Bureau. Do they maintain a five star evaluation in reviews and have been in service for many years. The qualified painting company always puts the customers first. This is the reason great painting companies have so many repeat customers. They know they can count on them to deliver the service they require.
Ken Rader is owner and operator of Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Ken shares his knowledge on house painters. House painting. (Interior and Exterior) and other home improvement topics. Check out all of our blogs.  We are sure you will find some information that will assist you in your Home improvement projects.
As always “Happy Painting and Decorating”
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You may also leave comments and they are always welcome.  We are always striving to improve our articles and have a share in a wonderful experience for you on your next home improvement project.
Ken Rader

Ten Ways to Make Your Home a New Place

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. Ten Ways to Make Your Home Feel Like A New Place. It is possible!

Does the look, feel and style of your home make you want to just walk back out? If you are tired of your home's current decor, but your budget won't allow you to remodel or redecorate completely, what do you do?
  Ways to transform the look and feel of your home are easy to locate. They are out there, and with the right ideas and a few materials, you can choose from several options that will make your home feel like you want it to.
 Where to start?
 Decorating Tips for Your Home

• 1. Sometimes remodeling isn't necessary, especially if clutter is a big part of your decor. Organize some of that mess to change the look of certain rooms in your home. If you can, buy decorative shelving and fun boxes to organize certain items. Make sure you have the correct fasteners and fixings to put the shelving together and you will have no problem creating a whole new look.

• 2. Tired of the same old layout? Rearrange! Move your existing furniture around in the same room, or swap rooms altogether. While this may take a bit of elbow grease, it will make a world of difference.

• 3. If you have a friend who is willing to be honest with you, have them come into your home and assess any problems with your decor. They may be able to tell you exactly what to do to change the look of your house.

• 4. Fixing up and re-purposing old pieces of furniture can give your room an instant makeover. Use a fresh coat of paint, stain, or new fixtures to make old items look like new!

• 5. Using bolts and screws, attach a mirror to the inside of the back of an open cabinet or bookcase for a fresh look. If you don't have a mirror, or can't find one you like, you can also use wallpaper.

• 6. You may not be able to afford a new bathroom sink or new kitchen cabinets, but you can still make them look and feel brand new with the use of new hardware. Change out your old faucets, knobs, and handles on your cabinets, dressers, sinks, tubs, and storage units.

• 7. Make purchases you love. Don't buy something just because it 'fits' in your space or you like the price. If you don't love it, don't buy it.

• 8. Want to change the look of an entire room at once? Repaint it. Adding a new shade or color will make it seem updated and refreshed.

• 9. Artwork scattered throughout your house?  You know, pictures, wall hangings, clocks, shelves with items displayed on them. You can easily use it to give your space a new look. Arrange all of it on one wall, and then install accent lighting with the correct fasteners and fixings above it. This accent wall will draw your guest's attention and bring a new perspective to your space.

• 10. It is summer, so why not bring the outdoors in?  Fresh flowers in vases all over your home will add a bit of color to your decor.

Of course this is just a few suggestions.  There are hundreds more.  Look in some up to date magazines, watch some of the home improvement shows on TV.  It can be fun and for a little bit of money and some hard work on your part you can have the look you want for your home.

There are many professional decorators and painting contractors that are a great help.
In Northwest Arkansas check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com
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As Always “ Happy Painting and Decorating”
Ken Rader

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”

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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”
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Ken Rader Interiors
Ken Rader

Transform your Bedroom

Is Yours A Modern Bedroom That Looks and Feels Good ?

Is your bedroom an inviting oasis of relaxation? Or does it look more like a storage unit, a veritable wasteland of clutter, dirty clothes, dirty dishes and kid’s toys.
If your room is the latter and you’re finding it increasingly more difficult to find the bed when it’s time for bed, you may want to consider giving your bedroom a well-deserved makeover.
With just a few changes, some hard decision making and some tough love, you can transform you bedroom into everything you ever dreamed it should be. And it’s easier than you think.
Start with the basic
First, your bedroom is not a storage facility. If things in the room do not contribute to relaxation, enhance the beauty, add space or provide some entertainment, get rid of it. Pack it up, move it to another room or put it in the garage or trash. If you like to watch a little television before calling it a night, consider getting an armoire to hide it away when it’s not in use. If you’re an avid reader, make sure your nightstands have a drawer so you can put your book or magazine away, along with your glasses. If you love the latest fashions, add more dressers, wardrobes and a closet organizer to the room. Finally, get a hamper for the dirty clothes so you’re not tempted to leave them wherever they fall. As they say, "A place for everything and everything in its place."
Add Furniture to the mix
Now that your room is clear of clutter, it’s time to add beauty and charm to the space. Start by looking at your furnishings. Do they have the same style or at least complement one another? Are there pieces that should be moved out to make way for others? Does the style of your furniture match your tastes? For example, if you have a love of modern or contemporary furnishings, why do you continue to hold on to that monster of an oak four-poster? Creating a cohesive or at least complementary look is essential to promoting relaxation and a sound sleep. As you review your bedroom’s needs, consider the space you have to work with as well. If you are in desperate need of another dresser, do you really need the California King or can you do with a Queen bed instead? This is not the time to be in denial. Once a piece of furniture is purchased, it tends to stay with you for a long time, so you want to choose carefully and deliberately. Nothing is more maddening than creating a bedroom retreat where the furniture is so big you can’t make it to the bathroom without stubbing a toe or cracking an elbow.
Think of your future storage needs
The old adage, "stuff expands to fill the space available" is certainly true in the bedroom. Fashions change seasonally and what’s hot now may not be next year. So clothing and footwear seems to multiply as the years pass, even though storage remains the same. Here’s a couple ways to gain space in your bedroom without knocking out a wall or doing a major remodel. First, choose furniture that offers maximum storage. A platform bed with space or drawers underneath provides a surprising amount of additional storage without adding to the overall furniture footprint. The same is true with dressers. A nightstand with drawers is a better choice than one with a single open shelf. Several highboys take up the same space as a low dresser, but offer two to three times the space. The same is true of a lingerie chest. A shoulder height lingerie chest offers more storage than a Queen Anne dresser for your unmentionables.
When you’re evaluating the space you need to store your clothing, don’t ever think you have enough. It’s far better to have a few nearly empty drawers for a few years than to have drawers so tightly packed that you have to struggle to get them open in the morning. Nothing puts the damper on a day than getting a black eye from a bra strap that got caught on the back of an overstuffed drawer.
Don’t go it alone – ask an expert
A well-designed bedroom doesn’t happen by accident. If you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself, there are lots of good resources out there. The Internet has sites devoted entirely to the subject of interior and bedroom design. Another good source is a reputable furniture retailer. Because they deal with design, style and fashion at every turn, these experts can help you create a bedroom that meets your needs perfectly. They can also provide you with good advice about colors, materials and fabrics so you can mix and match with ease and confidence.
Decorating takes a commitment so,” be prepared to make it”.  The rewards are many and in the years that I have been in the Decorating business no one has said ”I should not have done that”.
There is also a measure of expense involved.  You are in complete control of that so do not be scared and allow that fear to paralyze you.
The main thing to keep in mind is that “something must be done”.  That is the only way that change happens.  Please keep in mind that there are some people that do not have a decorating bone in their body.  You may be one of those people.  If so, hire the professional.  Decorators are wonderful people that derive considerable satisfaction from assisting others to attain the look and atmosphere they want.  It is a very human thing.  So make use of it.
Please visit our web site at www.kenraderinteriors.com
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As always “ Happy Painting and Decorating”
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. has been in business since 1987.  Offering Northwest Arkansas the highest quality in Painting and Decorating services.  Fully Insured and Licensed.

Paint your Cabinets-You can do It !

Painting Cabinets-Mine are So Ugly!

Do you have some drab looking cabinets and the thought of buying new ones is just out of the question. One very simple answer is to paint over your old cabinets and breathe some new life into them. Painting over cabinets is really easy and if you follow three simple steps you will have some great looking cabinets that will last a long time.
Some folks just throw some paint on the cabinets and leave it at that. The problem with this is the coat of paint that has been applied just may not last long because there will be some issues with bonding. In order to get good bonding there are some steps that must be taken.
Painting Cabinets - Step 1 Cleaning
Before painting anything the cabinet doors and drawers must be cleaned as well as the face of the cabinets. Using some TSP and a rag will do the trick, any grease or grime must be removed. The cabinets probably have a clear finish on them so for that they should be lightly sanded with some fine sand paper. This will help with the bonding. Also all hardware should be removed, such as door and drawer handles. Be sure and number the doors and drawers so that you will put them back in the same place.  VERY IMPORTANT!
Painting Cabinets - Step 2 Priming
Once the cleaning has been done all of the surfaces need to be primed with high quality primer. This can be accomplished with a brush and small cloth roller. The cloth roller needs to be of the finest nap so that when you roll the primer on it has a very fine smooth texture. Of course some areas need to be brushed on but going over all you can with a roller will produce a finer finish.  Kilz Premium, Zinnser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Glidden Gripper are my choices.
Painting Cabinets - Step 3 Painting
This will be the last step to having some beautiful new looking cabinets. As with priming the paint can be applied with a brush and a roller that again has a very fine nap for a smooth look. The paint should be a good quality paint.  Use a Combination Paint and Primer.  ‘Behr’ is my choice.  It is the best. The color is obviously your own choice. Just brush on the paint where you cannot reach with the roller and then go over the rest with the roller getting as close as you can to the brushed in areas for a nice smooth look. For an extra touch if you wanted to protect the finish you could put a protective clear coat of poly over top, however, this is not necessary. You should now be able to enjoy the new look of your cabinets at a much reduced cost than if you were to replace them.
Kenneth Rader is an expert painter and has successfully run a painting company, Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. since 1987.  Please visit our web site at www.kenraderinteriors.com  which provides many tips.
We also have many blogs for your instruction here at Wordpress.  Enjoy
As always, “Happy Painting and Decorating”
Ken Rader
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How to Paint. Tools,prep work, "Blow by Blow"

INTERIOR PAINTING I have done no surveys, but painting must be the number one do-it-yourself project. With the right supplies, quality paint, proper preparation and your own effort, you can restore a brand new look to your rooms or paint your brand new rooms like a pro. Read on as we go step by step: Supplies Preparation Priming Painting Cleanup Storage/Disposal SUPPLIES Brushes drop cloth spackling compound roller tray roller painter's tape Paint Brushes: Stick with quality brushes. They cost a bit more, but they are worth it in the long run. Clean them after each use and they will last a long long time. You will need a 2 or 2 ½ inch angular sash brush and the same size trim brush. Choose a premium brush with long dense flagged bristles. (Flagged bristles are not square cut but are split on the ends). These brushes will hold more paint and drip less. Use a synthetic brush when painting with latex paints. Although synthetic brushes can be used with Alkyd paints, I prefer a natural bristle brush. Make sure the brush holds the bristles tightly. (nothing is worse than a shedding brush) You will want brushes for cutting in and painting in areas that your roller can't reach. Foam brushes may have their uses, but interior wall painting is not one. Rollers: On large flat surfaces rollers work best. You can even buy rollers that are fed from the can via a small pump, however I prefer a simple tray. Rollers should be chosen based on the the texture of the surface and the type of paint you are applying. Eggshells..............3/8" nap (longer) Alkyds..................3/16" nap (shorter) Higher glosses use a shorter nap For surfaces: smooth...................1/8 – 3/8 semi-smooth..........3/8 – ½ semi- rough............½ - ¾ rough......................¾ - 1 ¼ Painter tape. When masking off areas around trim etc. Use quality painters tape. This tape is wider than most masking tape, it doesn't absorb the paint and is easy to apply and remove. It usually comes with an adhesive strip along one edge which covers about a 1/3 of the width of the tape. Don't use plain old masking tape. Paint To determine how much paint you will need, determine the number of square feet of wall (and ceiling) surface you will be covering. Don't subtract for doors and windows unless they are a major part of the wall area. Simply multiply the wall height by the length, for each wall. Now divide the surface area by the spreading rate (or coverage rate) indicated on the can of paint. Figure the primer and top coats separately as they may have different spreading rates. With a tinted primer and quality paints you should not need more than one topcoat of paint. PREPARATIONS Empty the room. Remove everything you can, furniture, pictures, lights, switch and outlet covers, you name it. Then cover the rest with drop cloths. I even take all the nails out of the walls (unless they are firmly in there and I am sure I will use them again after.) It is a pain to paint around them.. they get too much paint on them and then they drip. Clean the walls. Use something like Spic and Span. Paint will adhere much better to a clean surface. ( be sure to rinse/wipe off and remaining detergent then allow the walls to dry) For stains.. especially water stains, seal them with shellac. There are also some good spot primers like BIM but these are typically just shellac mixed with paint. The shellac will dry quickly. Cover any stains like magic markers etc, the same way. For mildew, if there is any, clean the walls with bleach mixed into some TSP. You shouldn't just paint over the mildew.. or it will come through. Repair the drywall/plaster. Fill any nail holes. For nail pops, if they are nails, pick off the old compound, reseat the nail with a good shot from the hammer and respackle them. For screws, pick off the old compound and tighten the screw, then respackle. You may need to cover those holes with one or more coat, sanding in between to get a nice smooth surface again. If you are painting your wood trim, fill any cracks or nail holes with wood putty, sanding it smooth. If there is any loose paint, sand and/or scrape it off. If you are repainting a wall with a gloss or semigloss finish, you will need to degloss it before painting to ensure adhesion. This can be done one of two ways. Either lightly sand the paint with fine sandpaper or wipe the wall down with a liquid deglosser. The liquid deglosser has quite an odor, and the surface needs to be painted within an hour, so it has its limitations. It is a bit quicker and less messy though. Thoroughly clean the room by vacuuming.. and if you deglossed with sandpaper, wipe the walls down with tack cloth to remove all the dust. Using your painter tape, mask off all areas that you need to be careful cutting in around. Stained trim, etc. Usually you won't need to mask off around the ceiling (and with some of the textured ceilings this is difficult to do anyway) you can cut in that angle by hand. Don't remove the tape for about 24 hrs so the paint can dry, to keep from pulling up any paint along its edge. PRIMING Priming is typically a good idea even on already painted surfaces. Latex paint can often be quite absorbent and should still be primed. Priming seals the surface which in turn prolongs the wet edge of finish coats which will help minimize lapmarks. Priming helps ensure uniformity of color and texture on the wall. Primers can be tinted toward the color of your top coat. Ask for this when you buy your primer. This will definitely help when repainting the wall a significantly different color. Prepainted surfaces coated with enamel or gloss finishes do not need to be primed. For new drywall, latex primers are recommended. For new wood often a alkyd based primer is recommended. (Latex can be used over either) PAINTING Are you ready to paint finally? I think the prep work is the hardest most tedious and most important part of the job. The painting is actually the fun part. Cutting in. Use your trim brush to paint a 3 inch wide strip along the perimeter of the wall/ceiling line. Start in a corner, where the ceiling meets the wall. Cut in only one section at a time. Then you will roll the paint on that wall's surface. This maintains a wet edge to blend the line between roller and brush. If you are painting the ceiling.. paint it first. Always work your way down. Paint the whole ceiling at one time. Use an extension in the roller handle. A broom handle will usually screw right into the end. Paint across the room's width, rather than its length. This helps maintain the wet edge too. Do not stop until the whole ceiling is painted. When using the extension pole, roll the paint on in a motion across rather than along your body to keep from leaning backwards straining your neck and back. Cut in around the ceiling, the corner, the baseboard and the windows or doors etc, and then paint that wall. If you have a partner, one should cut in, the other follow with a roller. Doing one wall at a time. The wetter the paint in the cut in strip when the roller comes along, the less likely there will be of any noticable line between the two. Painting Trim Using your sash brush first coat the edge close to the wall, then the flat face of the trim. Use the painter's tape on the wall only if the wall's paint is completely dry. (Wait at least 24 hours, 48 hours is better) For baseboard molding, again make sure the wall and or floor are protected. Keep a rag dampened with paint thinner or water (for alkyd or latex) handy to clean any drips off the floor or carpet. Painting Doors Remove all the hardware. Use a wedge underneath to hold it open part way. Paint the edge first. If the door has panels, paint the panels first, then the horizontal sections and then finally the vertical sections always painting with the grain. If the door is a flush flat surfaced door, begin at the top and work your way down painting a third of the door at a time. (Top third, middle third and bottom third) Paint as quickly as possible to try to keep a wet edge, blushing into the wet areas. Keep a rag handy to clean the reverse side of the door if paint runs on to that side. Painting Windows Remove any hardware. Lower the upper window and raise the bottom window. Paint the sash then the rails. DON'T paint the sash tracks. Return the upper window to near closed and the lower to near closed position. Don't shut the window completely until the paint is thoroughly dry. Paint the remaining parts of the window. Use a razor blade to clean the paint off the glass. It is best to remove the paint soon after the paint has dried. Waiting a long time will make this task significantly harder. CLEANUP For Alkyd paints use solvent (paint thinner) first then soapy water. For Latex paints, just soapy water. Clean the brushes by working the solvent into the bristles. Squeeze out paint and solvent and repeat until the paint disappears. Using two cans of solvent helps for this. A dirty can.. to clean most of the paint out with, then another clean can to clean out the last bit. Then use soap and water to clean the solvent out of the brush. Work the soap into the bristles again and again. Finally rinse and rerinse until the soap is all rinsed out. Hang them up to dry. I wrap them in newspaper, making a nice tight, square cover to hold the bristles nice and flat and square, taping the paper shut with some masking tape. For rollers, clean and rinse them the same as brushes. Clean all the paint from the tray and roller hardware with a solvent (or water) soaked rag. STORAGE/DISPOSAL Left over paint can last for years. Cover the opening with plastic wrap and replace the lid tightly. Store the can upside down. Use a black marker to label the can with the date, the room and the color. This paint can be used for touchups or future projects for years to come. If you finish a can, leave the top off to allow the remaining paint to dry completely in the can. Check with your local landfill, sanitation service or recycle center for directions on disposal of the cans. For cans with paint in them, you may need to wait for a hazardous waste pickup day or special hazardous waste centers for disposal. (Be good to your environment and dispose of paint and cans properly) If you have any questions or comments about this article, please send us an email (kennethrader@att.net)  You can also check out our web page (www.kenraderinteriors.com) As always “Happy Painting and Decorating”