Often you see the magazines with the nicely decorated homes, and you think to yourself - I wish my house could look like that! Aside from totally remodeling your room, painting is the most cost effective way and easiest way to transform your space. If you are taking on your first painting project or you are a professional, the importance of quality paint tools cannot be stressed enough! By planning your project and knowing what you need, you can make painting your space much more enjoyable. Using quality painting tools will eliminate the frustration that comes if you try to cut corners and go with the less expensive options.
There are two categories of house painting tools you need to purchase. The first are the preparation tools. Preparation of the surface is the most important part of the job. Surface preparation can and often will be more work than the actual painting. Using a quality tool can reduce your effort and produce a better, soother, surface ready for paint. With a clean surface, the paint goes on so much better and it makes a huge difference in the finished job.
Depending on the job, these tools may include:
1. Power Washer: This is an invaluable tool for exterior painting and will get surface dirt, such as spider webs and mold off, as well as loose and peeling paint. It will save time when you have to scrape and sand. Pressure washers are also indispensible when refinishing a wood deck. Always start with a clean surface.
2. Paint Scrapers: Don't skimp on this one. A high quality scraper will pay for itself easily, since a good blade will remove the loose materials much easier. If you don't get the old paint off, the new job will be in vain, since a clean sound surface is essential. There are many different types on the market. This includes specialized paint scrapers for different types of wood trim profiles or multipurpose knifes that do a lot more than scrape paint.
3. Power Sanders: After scraping off the loose paint, use a power sander to smooth the surface. Sanding after scraping can identify and remove additional loose and peeling paint that wasn't found. Plus the smoother look will be much better than just scraping.
4. Sandpaper and Sanding Sponges: Wood, metal and drywall are common surfaces requiring some hand sanding. Choosing the right abrasive for the job will save you time and, more importantly, effort.
5. Drop Cloths: No matter how neat of a painter you are, it is best to be prepared for the worst. Cleaning paint spills and splatters up can turn into a real chore. By having quality drop cloths, you can reuse them over and over. It is worth a little more up front to not have to battle with plastic or old bed sheets. The cheaper materials also tend to "transfer", because they will absorb extra paint and it can bleed through. It's recommended to go with a canvas, or even better butyl backed drop cloth for the best protection.
6. Masking Machine: Although not essential, if you want the cleanest job possible this is an inexpensive tool to have. Maybe it's not essential, but it should be! A masking machine is held in your hand and dispenses tape/paper together to protect your painting area. A good masking machine will drastically speed up the covering and protecting of unpainted surfaces.
7. Caulking Gun: Many models are available from simple manual machines to battery powered. Depending on what you're willing to spend and what type of painting project you are doing, you will want to look at your options before deciding on a caulking gun.
8. Ladders: Don't try to trick yourself into thinking you can make do without a good ladder. Ladders make even the smallest jobs so much easier. Invest in a heavy-duty ladder to provide more stability and safety. Get both a stepladder and an extension ladder, so you will have all your potential jobs covered. You can also add levelers and stabilizers to your ladder for even more safety. Many ladder accessories are available that will add safety and convenience to any job. A ladder is a long-term investment that you will inevitably be used for many years and countless projects. It will be useful for inside and outside jobs.
Painting doesn't have to be an intimidating job if you do it right from the beginning. Starting with quality preparation tools will make the job go smoother and quicker.
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