Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Painting Over a Darker Color*

The first thing to do before painting is to clean the surface. Dust, dirt, and paint just don't mix.

Apply a latex stain-blocking primer recommended for interior use. (An option is to have your paint seller add a color tint to the primer to approximate the finish coat. However, the amount of colorant that can be added is limited. Follow the primer manufacturer's guideline.)

Certain tints work well for different colors. For instance a gray primer will help dark blues and reds. Dark colors are very difficult to get right. The colors require so much tinting that the paint becomes very watery and sometimes transparent.The priming will serve several purposes: it will provide a base so that you get the proper color when you apply the paint; it will maximize adhesion of the new paint; it will provide sheen uniformity with the new paint; and it will block any potential stains from coming from the surface through the new paint. Apply the primer with a quality roller with a 3/8" synthetic nap. Be sure to apply 2 light coats of the primer, because the beneficial properties of the primer depend on having the full film thickness. Allow the primer to dry over night, before applying the finish coat.

Stir your colors well. If you have several gallons make sure to "box" the cans.(boxing is a term for mixing the paint together in a larger bucket to make sure of the color uniformity). Depending on the colors you are using; you will need at least 2 coats of finish, maybe more. Be sure to let each coat dry thoroughly before applying the next. Check the label on the paint can for manufacturers recommendations.

Back to Topics Page

Contact