Paint Preparation in Suffolk, New York
| For remodeling or reselling your home in the Suffolk area, nothing adds value more quickly than wallpaper and painting. Whether its brightening the trim or doing the whole home, inside and out, it is the first impression that many people will have of your home. But first you have to prepare your walls and surfaces so that the job will go smoothly and leave a lasting beauty. | |
| Wallpaper Removal: Most wall coverings can be removed from walls by a trained tradesperson with little difficulty but the do-it-yourself renovator can also get great results. First, wet the surface with a mixture of hot water and a recognized wallpaper remover. The enzymes in the remover breaks down the starch in the bonding agent allowing the paper to be stripped off without excessive force ensuring no damage to underlying wall. New paper or other surface sheathing can be readily installed but to prepare the wall for painting use a good quality primer. | |
| Re-Painting: | |
| When repainting a surface one of the first things to look for is damage to the drywall. These could be nail holes dents from moving furniture or chipped on the edges and can be repaired with drywall compound and a good putty knife. For more extensive damage a professional from the Suffolk County trades lists can be brought in. Surfaces should also be washed down with a mixture of TSP (Trisodium phosphate) and water. TSP has been utilized for cleaning painting surfaces for years having the qualities as a good degreaser and stain cleaner. TSP is also formulated for removing soot and lead paint dust. A thorough washing of the intended area with this mixture helps insure a good “stick” for the finish coats of paint. | |
| Painting Preparation: |
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| 1. Move furniture well away from the area. 2. Cover all floor surfaces with sheets or tarpaulins. 3. Remove all wall hangings. 4. Remove electrical switch plates. 5. Mask areas that you do not want painted. |
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| Primers | |
| A primer's main purpose is to seal the surface allowing the greatest adhesion of the finish paint. Also a primer can do much more, affecting the final appearance of the paint. There are three kinds: | |
| 1. Alkyd Oil-Based | |
| This is the best all-around primer because it covers so many types of surfaces: unpainted or painted wood, masonite, MDF, steel, iron, galvanized metal, chalky paint and graffiti. | |
| 2. Acrylic Latex Water Based | |
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| In Suffolk County there's a good chance you may need a permit for your project under certain applications especially for exterior painting - so check your village, city or town directly before you begin any work. Many areas have architectural codes and heritage covenants for the appearance of the home. Failing to research a permit may impede the sale of the property later on so dont rely on hearsay. Check with your local building department. | |
| Local Permits | |
| The below cities, towns, and villages offer local building permit information online. If your municipality is not listed, refer to our list of all municipalities within Suffolk County, and call your city, town or village directly or call: | |
| Suffolk County Government Office 100 Veterans Memorial Highway Hauppauge, NY 11788 (631) 853-5191 FAX (631) 853-4044 | |