John Sez:
By John Harris, Belcaro Paint, Paint Chemist
At some time most of us just want to touch-up a damaged area of a painted surface. When we use the same can of paint for touch-up that was originally applied to the surface we may find that there is now a difference in the paint color. I will just mention a few of the most common reasons for less than perfect touch-up.
- Over time, contaminants, sunlight, weather and previous washings will change a color on a surface enough to be noticeable when compared to the original paint.
- Paint applied at one temperature will dry to a slightly different color than touch-up paint applied to the same surface that is 10 degrees or more different than the original temperature.
- Painting over a porous surface may give a duller gloss than the subsequent touch-up, which may appear higher in sheen. Primers used before the first coat of paint help reduce this problem.
- Poor hiding of the first coat can be mistaken for a problem with touch-up. The touched-up area may actually be the correct color as compared to the more transparent first coat.
- Long walls with light sources at either end are often difficult to touch-up, as are walls with surface imperfections. A flatter paint will be more forgiving.
- Even though the color may be excellent when touching up, the additional paint in small areas may change the surface profile (fill in the textured surface) enough to be noticeable.
- Dry time between coats as well as room humidity and temperature are factors that effect acceptable touch-up.
We can offer more assistance in the store but be aware that perfect touch-up is nearly impossible.
Belcaro Paint & Decorating Center, Inc.
5475 Leetsdale Dr., Denver, CO 80246 303-757-5435
or
209 W. Littleton Blvd., Littleton CO 80120 303-703-4487
email us
Belcaro website
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