A Guide to Wall Touch-Ups
In a previous blog post, we tackled the topic of how to determine whether your house needs to be repainted. If your paint job is holding up well, but you have minor paint damage to your walls from children, pets, or summer guests, the following guide will help you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wall Touch-Ups:
- Clean the Surface: Begin by cleaning the damaged areas with a mild detergent and water. Remove any dust, dirt, or greased that may affect paint adhesion.
- Prepare the Surface: Use a fine-grit sandpaper (around 220-grit) to smooth rough edges around the damaged area. Wipe clean with a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust.
- Prime (if necessary): For significant repairs or bare patches, apply a primer to ensure proper adhesion and uniformity of the topcoat.
- Apply Paint: Use a small brush (angled brushes work well for corners and edges) or a roller for larger areas. Apply the paint in thin layers, feathering the edges to blend with the surround wall. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.
- Blend and Feather: To achieve a seamless finish, father the edges of the touch-up paint into the existing paint. This technique helps to minimize visible lines and ensure a uniform finish.
Expert Tip: Matching Paint Sheen
Satin and eggshell finishes will lose their sheen over time, which means your wall touch-up may be visible to the naked eye (even if the color match is perfect). One method to assure uniformity in sheen is to add a few drops of water into your paint bucket (assuming you are using a water-based paint). If you are touching up an oil-based paint, add a little paint thinner.
