ESTIMATING PAINT REQUIREMENTS
OVER VARIOUS SURFACES
MOST EXTERIOR PRODUCTS WILL AVERAGE 400 TO 450 SQUARE FEET PER GALLON ON SMOOTH SURFACES; HOWEVER, SOME SURFACES, DUE TO IRREGULARITY OR ROUGHNESS OF THE SURFACE, WILL TAKE CONSIDERABLY MORE PAINT.
The following is an approximate estimate over various irregular surfaces.
| ROUGH SAWED SIDING | 275 sq. ft./gallon |
| ASBESTOS SIDING (UNSEALED) | 250 sq. ft./gallon |
| ASBESTOS SIDING (SEALED) | 350 sq. ft./gallon |
| BOARD & BAT (SMOOTH) | 350 sq. ft./gallon |
| BOARD & BAT (ROUGH) | 250 sq. ft./gallon |
| SMOOTH SHINGLES | 275 sq. ft./gallon |
| SHAKE SHINGLES | 200 sq. ft./gallon |
| SMOOTH CONCRETE (UNSEALED) | 350 sq. ft./gallon |
| SMOOTH CONCRETE (SEALED) | 400 sq. ft./gallon |
| CONCRETE BLOCK (UNFILLED) | 100 sq. ft./gallon |
| CONCRETE BLOCK (FILLED) | 250 sq. ft./gallon |
| HAYDITE BLOCK (UNFILLED) | 75 sq. ft./gallon |
| HAYDITE BLOCK (FILLED) | 200 sq. ft./gallon |
| STUCCO MEDIUM (UNSEALED) | 100 sq. ft./gallon |
| STUCCO MEDIUM (SEALED) | 150 sq. ft./gallon |
| STUCCO ROUGH (SEALED) | 75 sq. ft./gallon |
| STUCCO ROUGH (SEALED) | 100 sq. ft./gallon |
| BRICK SMOOTH (UNSEALED) | 150 sq. ft./gallon |
| BRICK SMOOTH (SEALED) | 200 sq. ft./gallon |
| BRICK ROUGH (UNSEALED) | 100 sq. ft./gallon |
| BRICK ROUGH (SEALED) | 150 sq. ft./gallon |
It is advisable when estimating the square footage in the average residence to include areas such as windows, doors, etc. in the final figure. Deduct these areas only when they comprise a more than average percentage of the total area.
SURFACE AREA OF VARIOUS SIZE
ELEVATED WATER TANKS*
| CAPACITY (Thousand Gallons) | RISER (Diameter) | INSIDE AREA (Square Feet) | OUTSIDE AREA (Square Feet) |
| 50 | 4’ | 3,150 | 6,500 |
| 100 | 4’ | 4,300 | 8,000 |
| 150 | 4’ | 5,100 | 9,900 |
| 200 | 4’ | 5,900 | 11,100 |
| 250 | 4’ | 6,700 | 12,700 |
| 500 | 5’ | 10,000 | 19,600 |
| 750 | Dry 8’ | 13,600 | 29,100 |
| 1000 | Dry 8’ | 17,000 | 36,900 |
* Low Water Level 100’ above grade.
+ Includes supporting columns.
The above chart is applicable to the tanks shown below

In estimating the square foot area of a tank different than those shown on the preceding page, do the following -----
EXAMPLE:
Suppose the tank is 30 feet across and 50 feet high. The square of the diameter then is 900 feet (30x30). Which when multiplied by .7854 shows 706.9 square feet at the top of the tank. The diameter of 30 feet multiplied by 3.1416 shows that the tank is 94.3 feet around. The circumference of 94.3 multiplied by the height of 50 feet equals 4.715 square feet – area of the wall. Total area of approximately 5.425 square feet.
Any accessories such as piping, valves, rails, structural work, etc., would have to be estimated separately.
HOW TO FIND SURFACE AREAS OF:
| CORRUGATED METALS 2 ½" Corrugated Sheet – to find width before corrugation multiply the width after corrugation by 1.08. Assume depth to be 3/8". 1 ¼" Corrugated Sheet – to find width before corrugation multiply the width after corrugation by 1.11. Assume depth to be 3/8".
ROOF DECK If the roof deck has a cross section view similar to that shown, first figure the square foot area then multiply by 2.42 to obtain the actual surface area. If the roof deck has a cross section view similar to that shown, figure the top side as just the square foot area of surface. Figure the underside as follows:
SIDING If the siding has a cross section view similar to that shown multiply each square foot of area by 1.5 for actual surface area. Double for both sides. If the siding has a cross section view similar to that shown multiply each square foot of area by 1.42 for actual surface area. Double for both sides. If the siding has a cross section view similar to that shown multiply each square foot of area by 1.75 for actual surface area. Double for both sides. If the depth is 3" multiply by 1.5. Double for both sides. | ![]() |
SURFACE OF SPHERES
| Diameter in Feet | *Surface of Sphere in Square Feet |
| 20 | 1,257 |
| 25 | 1,963 |
| 30 | 2,827 |
| 35 | 3,848 |
| 40 | 5,027 |
| 45 | 6,362 |
| 50 | 7,854 |
| 55 | 9,503 |
| 60 | 11,310 |
| 65 | 13,273 |
| 70 | 15,394 |
* Outside surface area only –
double surface area for inside and outside
Citation of chapter in book: Guy E. Weismantel, Chemical Engineering, "Job Preparation" in Paint Handbook, ed. Harold B. Crawford and Beatrice E. Eckes (The Kingsport Press, 1981)
pp.18-9 & 18-10.
COVERAGE FOR DIFFERENT SHAPES
| TRIANGLE | To find the number of sq.ft. in any shape triangle or 3 sided surface, multiply the height by the width and divide the total by 2. 40’ height x 50’ width 1,000 sq.ft. 50’ 2,000 sq.ft. 2 2,000 |
|
| SQUARE | Multiply the base measurement in feet times the height in feet. 40’
40’ x 40’ = 1.600 sq.ft. 40’ |
|
| RECTANGLE | Multiply the base measurement in feet times the height in feet. 20’
40’ x 40’ = 800 sq.ft. 40’ |
|
| CYLINDER | When circumference (distance around cylinder) is known, mul- tiply height by circumference. 157’ circumference x 100’ height 15,700 sq.ft. 100’ 157’ When diameter (distance across) is known, multiply diameter by 3.1416. This gives circum- ference. Then multiply by height. 3.1416 157’ circumference x 50 diameter x 100’ height 157.0800 feet 15,700 sq.ft. NOTE: Figures do not include end area. See circle. |
|
| SPHERE | To find the number of sq.ft. of a sphere or ball, multiply the diameter (distance across) by itself and then multiply this total by 3.1416. If you haven’t the diameter, you can find it by measuring the circumstance and multiplying it by .31831. 50’ diameter 2,5000 x50’ diameter x 3.1416 2,500 7,854.0000 sq.ft. |
|
| CIRCLE | To find the number of sq. ft. In a circle, multiply the diameter (distance across) by itself and then multiply this total by .7854 50’ 50’ diameter 2,5000 x50’ diameter x .7854 2,500 1,969 sq.ft. |
|
CHAIN LINK FENCES

Figure the square foot area as a solid and double it to allow for both sides. For spray, this will be fairly accurate since overspray must be considered. For roller, the coverage indicated in the product data sheets should be increased.
WALLS -- When figuring the square foot area, openings of less than 100 square feet should not be deducted.
OPEN WEB STEEL JOISTS

Original equipment manufacturers and fabricators generally dip these joists, as a first or shop coat. On all repaint work, by spray, these manufacturers recommend the paint be estimated by thinking of the joist as a solid rather than open web. Double for both sides.
STACKS
To compute the square foot area of a stack multiply height (B) by the average diameter (A) and multiply that total by 3.
EXAMPLE: Diameter of stack at the top – 5 feet.
Diameter of stack at the bottom – 15 feet.
( 2 /( 5 + 15)
Average diameter = 10 feet.
Height 60 feet.
60 x 10 = 600.
600 x 3 = 1800 square feet of surface area.
DOWNSPOUTS & GUTTERS – Measure the circumference in inches. To figure square feet, divide the circumference by 12 and multiply by total length in feet. Double this figure if the inside is to be painted.
PICKET FENCE – Multiply the height by the length and multiply the result by four.
Citation of chapter in book: Guy E. Weismantel, Chemical Engineering, "Job Preparation" in
Paint Handbook, ed. Harold B. Crawford and Beatrice E. Eckes (The Kingsport Press, 1981)
pp.18-9 & 18-10.
| Instructions:
|
| "CENTS" COST PER SQUARE FOOT ONE MIL DRY FILM | ||||||||||||||||
| Price/per gal. | Volume Solids % | |||||||||||||||
| 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 | 55 | 60 | 65 | 70 | 75 | 80 | 85 | 90 | |
| $8.00 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.6 | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.0 | .90 | .80 | .76 | .72 | .66 | .62 | .58 | .55 |
| $8.50 | 3.4 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.3 | 1.3 | 1.0 | .98 | .84 | .80 | .76 | .70 | .66 | .62 | .58 |
| $9.00 | 3.6 | 2.8 | 2.2 | 1.9 | 1.6 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .94 | .86 | .80 | .76 | .70 | .66 | .62 |
| $9.50 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 2.4 | 2.0 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .92 | .84 | .80 | .74 | .70 | .65 |
| $10.00 | 4.2 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.5 | 1.5 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.0 | .96 | .90 | .84 | .78 | .74 | .69 |
| $10.50 | 4.4 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .98 | .88 | .82 | .78 | .72 |
| $11.00 | 4.6 | 3.4 | 2.8 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.1 | 1.1 | .98 | .92 | .86 | .80 | .75 |
| $11.50 | 4.8 | 3.6 | 2.8 | 2.4 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.1 | .96 | .90 | .84 | .79 |
| $12.00 | 5.0 | 3.8 | 3.0 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .94 | .88 | .83 |
| $12.50 | 5.2 | 3.9 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | 1.0 | .92 | .86 |
| $13.00 | 5.4 | 4.0 | 3.2 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .95 | .89 |
| $13.50 | 5.6 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 2.8 | 2.4 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .95 | .89 |
| $14.00 | 5.8 | 4.4 | 3.5 | 2.9 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 | .96 |
| $14.50 | 6.0 | 4.5 | 3.6 | 3.0 | 2.6 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.1 | .99 |
| $15.00 | 6.2 | 4.7 | 3.7 | 3.1 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 |
| $15.50 | 6.4 | 4.8 | 3.8 | 3.2 | 2.7 | 2.4 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.0 |
| $16.00 | 6.6 | 4.9 | 4.0 | 3.3 | 2.8 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.1 |
| $16.50 | 6.8 | 5.1 | 4.1 | 3.4 | 2.9 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.1 |
| $17.00 | 7.0 | 5.2 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.6 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 | 1.2 |
| $17.50 | 7.2 | 5.4 | 4.3 | 3.6 | 3.1 | 2.7 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 |
| $18.00 | 7.4 | 5.6 | 4.4 | 3.7 | 3.2 | 2.8 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.2 |
| $18.50 | 7.6 | 5.7 | 4.6 | 3.8 | 3.3 | 2.9 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 1.3 |
| $19.00 | 7.8 | 5.9 | 4.7 | 3.9 | 3.4 | 2.9 | 2.6 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 |
| $19.50 | 8.0 | 6.0 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 3.4 | 3.0 | 2.7 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 | 1.3 |
| $20.00 | 8.2 | 6.2 | 4.9 | 4.1 | 3.5 | 3.1 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.5 | 1.4 |
| $21.00 | 8.6 | 6.5 | 5.2 | 4.3 | 3.7 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 |
| $22.00 | 9.1 | 6.8 | 5.4 | 4.5 | 3.9 | 3.4 | 3.0 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 1.5 |
| $23.00 | 9.5 | 7.1 | 5.7 | 4.7 | 4.1 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.6 |
| $24.00 | 9.9 | 7.4 | 5.9 | 4.9 | 4.2 | 3.7 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.6 |
| $25.00 | 10.3 | 7.7 | 6.2 | 5.1 | 4.4 | 3.9 | 3.4 | 3.1 | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.7 |
| $26.00 | 10.8 | 8.1 | 6.5 | 5.4 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.8 |
| $27.00 | 11.2 | 8.4 | 6.7 | 5.6 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 3.1 | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 2.0 | 1.9 |
| $28.00 | 11.6 | 8.7 | 7.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 | 4.4 | 3.9 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 1.9 |
| $29.00 | 12.0 | 9.0 | 7.2 | 6.0 | 5.2 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.3 | 2.1 | 2.0 |
| $30.00 | 12.4 | 9.3 | 7.5 | 6.2 | 5.3 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 3.1 | 2.9 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.2 | 2.1 |
| $31.00 | 12.9 | 9.7 | 7.7 | 6.4 | 5.5 | 4.8 | 4.3 | 3.9 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 3.0 | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.3 | 2.1 |
| $32.00 | 13.3 | 10.0 | 8.0 | 6.7 | 5.7 | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 3.3 | 3.1 | 2.8 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.3 | 2.2 |
| $33.00 | 13.7 | 10.3 | 8.2 | 6.9 | 5.9 | 5.1 | 4.6 | 4.1 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 2.7 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 2.3 |
| $34.00 | 14.1 | 10.6 | 8.5 | 7.1 | 6.1 | 5.3 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.5 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 2.8 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.4 |
| $35.00 | 14.5 | 10.9 | 8.7 | 7.3 | 6.2 | 5.5 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 3.4 | 3.1 | 2.9 | 2.7 | 2.6 | 2.4 |
| Sq. Ft. /Gal. | ||||||||||||||||
| 1.0 Mil. | 240 | 321 | 401 | 481 | 561 | 642 | 722 | 802 | 882 | 962 | 1043 | 1123 | 1203 | 1283 | 1363 | 1444 |
GLOSSARY OF PAINT TERMS
| ABRASION RESISTANCE: Resistance to being worn away by rubbing or friction; related more to toughness than to hardness. A necessary quality for floor finishes, enamels and varnishes. ABRASIVE: Used for wearing away a surface by rubbing. Examples are powdered pumice, rottenstone, sandpaper, sandpaper, steel wool. ADHESION: The ability of a coating to stick to a surface. AEROSOL: A product feature that uses compressed gas to spray the product from its container. AIRLESS SPRAY: A spray that increases the fluid pressure of paint by means of a pump that causes atomization with air, resulting in higher film build and little or no over-spray. ALKALI: A substance such as lye, soda or lime that can be highly destructive to paint films. ALKYD: Synthetic resin modified with oil for good adhesion to a clean surface and good gloss, color retention and flexibility. Slow drying. ALLIGATORING: Condition of paint film where surface is cracked and develops an appearance similar to alligator skin. ALUMINUM PAINT: A paint that includes aluminum particles and gives a metallic finish when dried. ANCHORING: Mechanical bonding of a coating to a rough surface as contrasted with adhesion, which is chemical bonding. ANTI-CORROSIVE PAINT: Metal paint designed to inhibit corrosion. Applied directly to metal. ANTIQUE FINISH: A finish usually applied to furniture or woodwork to give the appearance of age. BACK PRIMED: When a coat of paint is applied to the back of woodwork and exterior siding to prevent moisture from entering the wood and causing the grain to swell. BENZENE: Powerful but highly toxic and flammable solvent, usually restricted to spray application. BENZINE: Often used as a lacquer dilutent. Highly volatile and a fire hazard in shipping and storing. BINDER: Film-forming ingredient in paint that binds the pigment particles together. BLEACHING: The process of restoring discolored or stained wood to its normal color or making it lighter. BLEEDING: Undercoat staining through the topcoat. BLISTERING: The formation of bubbles or pimples on the painted surface caused by moisture in the wood by painting before the previous coat has dried thoroughly or by excessive heat or grease under the paint. BLUSHING: A gloss film turning flat or a clear lacquer turning white, usually caused by moisture condensation during the drying process.
COLORANT: Concentrated color that can be added to paints to make a specific color. COLORFAST: Fade resistant. COLOR UNIFORMITY: Ability of a coating to maintain a uniform or consistent color across its entire surface, particularly during the weathering process. CONTACT CEMENT: Completely non-staining cement. Ideal for applying wall paneling and for covering counters, cabinets and table tops with both porous and non-porous surfacing materials ranging from linoleum to plastic laminates. COPPER STAINING: Usually caused by corrosion of copper screens, gutters or downspouts washing down on painted surfaces. Can be prevented by painting or varnishing the copper. COVERAGE: The area over which a given amount of paint will spread and hide the previous surface. (Usually expressed in square feet per gallon). CRACKING: The type of paint failure characterized by breaks in irregular lines wide enough to expose the underlying surface. CRAWLING: Varnish defect in which poor adhesion of varnish to surface in some spots causes it to gather up in globs. CRAZING: Small, interlacing cracks on surface of finish. CREOSOTE: A type of liquid coating made from coal tar that is used as a wood preservative. It should not be used on wood that will be painted later. CURING: Final conversion or drying or a coating material. CUSTOM COLOR: Special colors made by adding colorant to paint or by intermixing colors, which permits the retailer to match a color selected by the consumer. CUTTING IN: Careful painting of an edge such as wall color at the ceiling line or at the edge of woodwork. DISTRESSING: Treatment of furniture, usually in the process of being antiqued, in order to make it appear older than it is. Consists of marring the surface or applying specks of glaze before varnishing. DRIER: A paint ingredient that aids the drying or hardening of the film. DRY DUST FREE: That stage of drying when particles of dust that settle upon the surface do not stick to the paint film. DRY TACK FREE: That stage of drying when the paint no longer feels sticky or tacky when lightly touched. DRY TO HANDLE: That stage of drying when a paint film has hardened sufficiently so the object or surface painted may be used without marring. DRY TO RECOAT: That stage of drying when the next coat can be applied. DRY TO SAND: That stage of drying when a paint film can be sanded without the sandpaper sticking or clogging.
FLAT APPLICATOR: A rectangular shaped flat pad with an attached handle that is used to paint shingles, shakes and other special surfaces and areas. FLEXIBILITY: Ability of a coating to expand and contract during temperature changes. FLOATING: Separation of pigment colors on the surface of applied paint. FLOW: The ability of a coating to level out and spread into a smooth film, paints that have a good flow usually level out uniformly and exhibit few brush or roller marks. FUNGICIDE: An agent the helps prevent mold or mildew growth on paint. GALVANIZED: A thin coating of zinc that covers iron or steel to prevent rust. GLAZE: A term used to describe several types of finishing materials. (1) Glazing putty is of a creamy consistency and is applied to fill imperfections in the surface. (2) A glazing stain is a pigmented stain applied over a stained, filled or painted surface to soften or blend the original color without obscuring it. (3) A glaze coat is a clear finish applied over previously coated surfaces to create a gloss finish. GLAZING COMPOUND: putty used to set glass in window frames and to fill nail holes and cracks. GLOSS: The luster or shininess of paints and coatings are generally classified as flat, semi-gloss, or gloss; the latter has the higher reflecting ability. GLOSS METER: A standard scale for measuring the shininess or light reflectance of paint. Different brands with the same description such as semi-gloss or flat may have quite different ratings on the gloss meter. GRAIN RAISING: Swelling and standing up of the wood grain caused by absorbed water and solvents. GRAINING: Simulating the grain of wood by means of specially prepared colors or stains and the use of graining tools or special brushing techniques. GROUND COAT: The base coat in an antiquing system that is applied before the graining colors, glazing or other finish coat. HARDBOARD: Reconstituted natural wood, fabricated by reducing natural wood to fibers and then pressing the fibers together into panels of various thickness'. HARDNESS: The ability of a paint film to resist denting, scratching or marring. HIDING POWER: The ability of a paint to hide the previous surface or color. HOLDOUT: The ability of a paint film to dry to its normal finish on a somewhat absorptive surface. HOLIDAYS: Voids in the dried paint film. HOT SPOTS: Lime spots, which are not completely cured and bleed through the coating on a plastered wall.
MINERAL SPIRITS: Paint thinners or solvents derived from petroleum. NAILHEAD RUSTING: Rust from iron nails that penetrates or bleeds through the coating and stains the surrounding areas. NAP: The length of fibers in a paint roller cover. NONVOLATILE: The portion of paint left after the solvent evaporates; sometimes called the solids content. OIL STAINS: There are two types of oil stains, penetrating and non-penetrating. Penetrating oil stains contain dyes and resins that penetrate the surface; non-penetrating oil stains contain larger amounts of pigments and are usually opaque or transparent. OPACITY: The ability of a paint to hide the previous surface or color. OPAQUE COATING: A coating that hides the previous surface coating. ORANGE PEEL: Film having the roughness of an orange due to poor roller or spray application. PAINT GAUGE: Instrument for measuring the thickness of paint film. PAINT REMOVER: A compound that softens old paint or varnish and permits scraping off the loosened material. PATCHING PLASTER: A special plaster made for repairing plaster walls. PEELING: Detachment of a dried paint film in relatively large pieces, usually caused by moisture or grease under the painted surface. PIGMENTS: Paint ingredients mainly used to impart color and hiding power. PIHNOLE: Very small holes in paint film, usually not deep enough to show undercoat. PLASTER OF PARIS: A quick setting, pure white powder, used to set bathroom wall fixtures such as towel racks or used by craft groups for pouring molds and making plaster objects. POLYURETHANE: Wide range of coatings, ranging from hard gloss enamels to soft flexible coatings. Good to very good adhesion, hardness, flexibility and resistance. Surface preparation critical. POLYVINYL ACETATE: A synthetic resin largely used as a vehicle for many latex paints. Often referred to as PVA. POT LIFE: Amount of time after mixing a two-part paint system during which it can be applied. PRIME COAT OR PRIMER: The first coat or undercoat that helps bind the topcoat to the substrate. PROPELLANT: The gas used to expel materials from aerosol containers. PUTTY: Doughlike mixture of pigment and oil used to set glass in window frames and to fill nail holes and cracks. SHELLAC: Derived from a resinous substance called Lac. Used as a sealer and finish for floors, for sealing knots and other purposes. A natural resin, usually in the form of thin flakes. SILICONE: See Resin. SKIN: Tough covering that forms on paints if container is not tightly sealed. SOLIDS: See Nonvolatile. SOLVENT: The volatile part of paint composition that evaporates during drying. SPACKLING COMPOUND: A material used as crack filler for preparing surfaces before painting. SPAR VARNISH: A very durable varnish designed for service on exterior surfaces. SPATTER: Small particles or drips of liquid paint thrown or expelled when applying paint. SPOT PRIMING: A method of protecting localized spots. The only areas primed are those that require additional protection due to rusting or peeling of the former coat. SPRAYING: A method of application in which the coating material is broken up into a fine mist that is directed onto the surface to be coated. SPREADING RATE: The area to which paint can be spread; usually expressed as square feet per gallon. STAIN: A solution or suspension of coloring matter in a vehicle designed primarily to be applied to create color effects rather than to form a protective coating. A transparent or semi-opaque coating that colors without completely obscuring the grain of the surface. STIPPLING: A finish made by using a stippling brush or roller stippler or a newly painted surface before the paint is dry. STREAKING: The irregular occurrence of lines or streaks of various lengths and colors in an applied film; usually caused by some form of contamination. STRIP: Removal of old finishes with paint removers. STYRENE-BUTADIENE: See Resin. SUBSTRATE: Surface to be painted. SURFACE TENSION: The property of a coating that makes it tend to shrink when applied. TACK RAG: A piece of loosely woven cloth that has been dipped into varnish oil and wrung out. When it becomes tacky or sticky, it is used to wipe a surface to remove particles of dust. TACKY: Sticky condition of coating during drying, between wet and dry-to-touch stage. TEXTURE: The roughness or irregularity of a surface. WRINKLING: Development of ridges and furrows in a paint film when the paint dries. YELLOWING: Development of a yellow color or cast in white, a pastel, colored or clear finishes. ZINC CHROMATE: Rust-inhibiting pigment, greenish-yellow in color that is used with a high-hiding pigment. ZINC OXIDE: Substance used as a white pigment for high-hiding power hardness and gloss. Reduces yellowing, increases drying; provides resistance to sulfur fumes and mildew. Used with linseed oil for self-cleaning exterior paints.
SURFACE PREPARATION GUIDE INTRODUCTION The quality of surface preparation, and surface repair on new, or repaint surfaces, significantly affects the amount of preparatory work that will be required for all subsequent repaints. Surface preparation and surface repair are the most important requirements for maximum durability from any paint system. Because the results of surface preparation and repair are quickly concealed by the first coat of paint, the effects are not usually evident until premature paint failure occurs. The first step should always be a thorough examination of the surface to be painted, checking for peeling and faded paint, dirt, chalking, grease, cracking, knots, bare areas, mildew, rust, nail stains and structural problems. All surfaces, whether painted or unpainted, must be clean, free from shine, sound and dry prior to finishing. GENERAL SURFACE PREPARATION LOOSE AND PEELING PAINT Remove as much loose and peeling paint by scraping, wirebrush or power-washing the surface. Feather-sand rough edges smooth until they blend with bare surface. DIRT, GREASE, OIL,CHALK AND UNDER-EAVE DEPOSITS Remove these deposits by washing with a detergent solution (TSP) or commercial cleaner recommended for cleaning painted surfaces using a sponge or brush. Protected areas, such as under eaves and overhangs, need special attention to remove invisible deposits that can promote a premature peeling problem. After washing, thoroughly rinse with clean water and allow to dry. Power-washing is also a fast, effective method of removing dirt, chalk, etc. If a power-washer is used, follow the manufacturer's recommendations and warnings. MILDEW Spotty patches that look like dirt, but do not come off when scrubbed with detergent solution, are probably mildew. Mildew can occur on any side of the house, but is more likely to grow in shaded areas or behind shrubbery. It can easily be identified from other forms of discoloration by applying a few drops of bleach. If mildew is present, the black, gray or brown color will bleach out and disappear within one or two minutes. Mildew must be killed and removed before repainting. If the mildew is not completely removed, the active spores will continue to grow and may almost immediately begin to reappear on a recently repainted surface. Where mildew is present, apply a solution of one part household bleach and three parts water, or use a commercial mildew remover. It is mandatory to wear rubber gloves, goggles, long-sleeved shirt and long pants to protect eyes and skin when using a mildew remover. In addition, protect grass, trees and shrubs with plastic covers. CAUTION!! DO NOT MIX BLEACH WITH AMMONIA OR DETERGENTS CONTAINING AMMONIA. Follow specific instructions if a commercial mildew remover is used. RUST Remove all rust by sandblasting, wirebrush, steel wool, sandpaper or naval jelly (rinse thoroughly). See Iron, Steel and Ferrous Metal section for SSPC preparation methods. CRACKS, SPLITS AND OPEN JOINTS Cracks, or open joints, where water may enter should be caulked with a high-quality, paintable acrylic caulk. Apply primer over caulked area. GLOSSY SURFACES Always dull surfaces with sandpaper or liquid de-glosser. CAUTION - liquid de-glossers are generally not recommended on surfaces to be painted with water-based paints. RUSTY/LOOSE NAILS Replace loose nails with slightly larger, galvanized nails. Leave nail heads flush with hardboard surfaces and counter sink on all other wood surfaces. Prime with a corrosion resistant primer. WAX MIGRATION This condition can be encountered on hardboard surfaces. If a stain or discoloration persists after removing dirt and/or mildew, it may be a wax migration from the siding. It can be identified by applying a few drops of water, both to a discolored area and an adjacent non-discolored area. If the water beads on the discolored area, but spreads or is absorbed in the areas around the stain, a wax migration condition probably exists in the stained area. In most cases this discoloration can be removed with a hot detergent solution (TSP), followed with a thorough rinsing with clean water. In extreme cases removing the stain by wiping the area with a clean rag, wet with mineral spirits, may be necessary, followed by a detergent solution (TSP) wash and clean-water rinse. Repeating either process may be necessary until clear water ceases to bead up on the affected area. Prime the affected area prior to topcoating. PREVIOUSLY COATED SURFACES Maintenance painting will frequently not permit complete removal of all old coatings prior to repainting a particular surface. Recognize that any surface preparation, short of removal of all old coatings, may compromise the service life of the new coating system. Check compatibility of previously painted surfaces using a test patch with the coating if there is any doubt on recoatability. Specific Surfaces NEW ALUMINUM & GALVANIZED SURFACES To paint these surfaces, you must start by solvent cleaning (with mineral spirits) to remove any oily residue. Prime with either a good quality latex or oil primer formulated for these surfaces. AGED ALUMINUM (Exposed to the elements for at lease 2 months.) If this is possible, all that is necessary is to wipe it clean from dirt & prime with oil or latex primer. COPPER Shall be cleaned free of dirt, oxides and foreign matter. Acid etching with muriatic acid may be required to remove oxidation. Prime with an oil based product. BRASS & BRONZE Remove only loose tarnish, but not all tarnish needs to be removed. Then wash with detergent to get rid of dirt and grease. Rinse well and allow to dry. Prime with a top quality oil metal primer. CHROME Start by roughing up the surface with fine sandpaper or emery cloth. Wash with soap and water, then rinse and allow to dry. Prime with oil-based metal primer IRON, STEEL, & FERROUS METAL NEW: Wipe clean with mineral spirits to eliminate any oil or grease. Remove all rust and mill scale. Prime with a good oil-based metal primer PREVIOUSLY PAINTED IRON AND STEEL: If the old film is in good sound condition, all that needs to be done is to de-gloss the old surface with light sanding and clean with mineral spirits. If the old film is in poor condition, it should be removed with paint remover. If metal has rusted, that too must be removed. Prime all bare spots with oil-based metal primer Abrasive Blast Cleaning: WHITE METAL BLAST CLEANING (SSPC-SP5, NACE No. 1) A surface with a gray-white, uniform metallic color, slightly roughened to form a suitable anchor pattern for coatings. This surface is free of all oil, grease, dirt, mill scale, rust, corrosion products, oxides, paint and other foreign matter. NEAR-WHITE BLAST CLEANING (SSPC-SP10, NACE No. 2) A surface from which all oil, grease, dirt, mill scale, rust corrosion products, oxides, paint or other foreign matter have been removed except for light shadows, streaks or other discolorations (of oxide bonded to metal). At least 95% of any given square inch has the appearance of "White Metal," and the remainder is limited to slight discolorations. COMMERCIAL BLAST CLEANING (SSPC-SP6, NACE No. 3) A surface from which all oil, grease, dirt, rust scale and foreign matter have been removed except for slight shadows, streaks or discoloration caused by rust stain or mill scale oxide binder. At least two-thirds of any square inch shall be free of all visible residues and the remainder shall be limited to light discoloration, slight staining, or light residues mentioned above. If the surface is pitted, slight residues of rust or paint are found in the bottoms of the pits. BRUSH-OFF BLAST CLEANING (SSPC-SP7, NACE No. 4) A surface from which oil, grease, dirt, loose rust scale, loose mill scale and loose paint are removed, but tightly adhering mill scale, rust, paint and coatings are permitted to remain if they have been exposed to the abrasive blast pattern, so that numerous flecks of the underlying metal are uniformly distributed over the entire surface. WATER BLASTING (NACE No. RP-01-72) Removal of oil, grease, dirt, loose rust, loose mill scale and loose paint by water at pressures of 2000-5000 psi at a flow of 4-14 gallons per minute. Hand and Power Tool Cleaning: HAND TOOL CLEANING (SSPC-SP2) POWER TOOL CLEANING (SSPC-SP3) These specifications describe methods of preparing metal surfaces by removing loose mill scale, loose rust and loose paint by wire-brushing, sanding, scraping or chipping with hand or power tools. Other specifications sometimes used for surface preparation are SSPC-SP1, SOLVENT CLEANING, which describes methods of removing oil, grease, dirt and certain chemical compounds by solvent washing or vapor de-greasing, and SSPC-SP8, PICKLING, which describes removal of mill scale and rust by chemical reaction. High-pressure water blasting is an effective means of removing old paint and rust scale. Abrasive injection or dry blasting must be used to achieve an anchor patte STAINLESS STEEL Wash to remove grease with a detergent solution. Sand lightly to etch the surface. Prime with epoxy metal primer. NEW OR UNPAINTED CONCRETE FLOORS Floors - Check for any dampness on floors by placing a rubber mat down and leaving overnight. Upon inspection, if dampness occurs on the back side of the mat, or concrete surface has been darkened by moisture - Do Not Paint. New concrete should be allowed to cure 30 days at 75° F. prior to painting. All concrete surfaces should be etched before painting with a solution of one part muriatic acid and two parts water. (Wear rubber gloves and goggles because this solution is hazardous.) Allow solution to bubble, then rinse well with clean water. Brush while rinsing to remove all loose concrete. Allow surface to dry completely. Additional vacuuming may be required to remove powdery residue left from etching. Concrete can also be prepared for painting by lightly sandblasting. Your first coat of paint should be a thinned-down version of your finish. Thin one pint water per gallon of latex paints. Thin one pint mineral spirits per gallon of solvent-based paints. The topcoat should be used straight out of the can. PAINTED CONCRETE OR WOOD FLOORING Be sure surface is free from dirt, dust, etc. by sweeping or vacuum cleaning. Remove grease, oil, floor compound and wax by chemical cleaning. Scrape carefully to remove deteriorated coatings. If remaining coating is glossy or very hard, sand it lightly for good adhesion of subsequent coatings. The surface must be thoroughly dry before coating. MASONRY (BLOCK, CINDER, AND CONCRETE) Allow to dry 30 days under normal drying conditions prior to painting. If efflorescence or cement dust is present on masonry and concrete, it should be removed by etching with a 10% solution of muriatic acid. Flush off surface, after etching, with clean water and allow to dry. If etching is not possible to neutralize efflorescence; sand, scrape and wire brush; then coat with masonry conditioner before painting. Surfaces should also be free of all dust, dirt and loose or excess mortar. Porous surfaces should be filled with block filler before painting. Latex finishes will afford best results. No special primer is required. UNPAINTED STUCCO AND BRICK This needs no special preparation. However, stucco should be allowed to sit and dry thoroughly before it is painted. If surface is soft or slightly powdery, first apply one coat of masonry conditioner. Apply two coats of exterior latex paint formulated for masonry. PAINTED STUCCO Should be cleaned and free from loose paint and all holes should be patched. Paint with exterior latex. CERAMIC TILE AND GLAZED BRICK Wash with detergent, then go over with a paste of powdered pumice and water to roughen surface. Paint with a good quality 2-part epoxy paint. UNPAINTED EXTERIOR WOOD SURFACES Should be clean and dry. Prime and paint as soon as possible. No painting should be done immediately after a rain or during foggy weather, or when the temperature is below 50° F. Knots and pitch streaks shall be scraped or burned, sanded and spot primed before receiving a full coat of primer. All nail holes or small openings should be filled after the priming coat is applied. Prime with a high quality oil or latex primer. (See cedar and redwood.) CEDAR OR REDWOOD The main problem with painting these surfaces is the fact that it discolors. This is known as tannin bleed. To control bleed follow these recommendations: Priming with an alkyd-based primer will afford better stain blocking characteristics than a latex primer. In wood containing an extremely high amount of tannin, two coats of primer may be necessary. HARDBOARD Before finish is applied to the panels, they must be cleaned. Apply an alkyd or latex primer, even if hardboard is pre-primed, then finish with desired topcoat. ASBESTOS SHINGLES If glazed, allow at least two years before painting. If shingles are porous, treat with masonry conditioner. If shingles are weathered, remove all dirt and dust. Prime with latex primer. PLASTER Shall be allowed to dry thoroughly for at least 30 days before painting. Bare plaster should be dry, cured and hard. Fill any holes and cracks. Sand smooth. Paint with latex paint. Primer may be used if desired. If so, use a latex type. If previously coated with a cement-based coating or lime wash, treat first with masonry conditioner. DRYWALL-SHEETROCK-GYPSUM BOARD Prime with a latex primer-sealer. Do not use a solvent based primer since it will raise the fiber of the wallboard. ACOUSTICAL TILE Should be well cleaned before painting. Finish with flat wall or ceiling latex to retain acoustics. Spraying is the best way to paint these surfaces, but brush and roll-on methods may also be used. WOOD PANELING If it has a shiny surface, dull by sanding lightly and clean with mineral spirits to remove any wax. Prime with oil primer. WOODWORK - INTERIOR All finishing lumber and flooring should be sanded smooth, with the grain -not across it. Surface blemishes shall be corrected. If painting use an oil-based enamel undercoater for priming. WALLPAPER Remove loose paper. Test for bleed by applying latex to a small area to make sure wallpaper is waterfast. If bleed occurs, seal paper with one coat of white shellac reduced with an equal volume of alcohol. Avoid skips when applying shellac. Allow to dry one hour before topcoating. FIBERGLASS De-gloss or etch the surface by lightly sanding. Apply epoxy polyamide or acrylic urethane topcoat for surfaces that may be abused. Light surface area may only require an alkyd topcoat. GLASS Wash and allow to air dry. Apply either an epoxy or alkyd enamel. PLASTIC If it is flexible, Do not paint it. If stiff, wash with detergent and roughen with sandpaper or steel wool. Prime with solvent-based primer. TERRA COTTA Scrub with detergent and sand lightly with sandpaper. Prime with alkyd-base primer and finish. | BODY: The thickness or thinness of a liquid paint. BOXING: Mixing paint by pouring from one container to another several times to ensure thorough mixing. BREATHE: The ability of a paint film to permit the passage of moisture vapor without causing blistering, cracking, or peeling. BRIDGING: Ability of paint to span small gaps or cracks through its cohesion and elastic qualities. BRISTLE: The working part of a brush containing natural bristles (usually hog hair) or artificial bristles (nylon or polyester). BRUSHABILITY: The ability or ease with which paint can be brushed. BRUSH MARKS: Marks of brush that remain in the dried paint film. BRUSH-OUT: A technique sometimes used to influence a large sale that consists of brushing out a sample of paint onto a slab of wood or other material so the customer can see how the finished job will look. BUBBLES: Air bubbles in a drying paint film caused by excessive brushing during application or by over vigorous mixing that results in air trapment. BUILD: Thickness or depth of a paint film. BURNING IN: Repairing a finish by melting stick shellac into the damaged places by using a heated knife blade or iron. BURNISHING: Shiny or lustrous spots on a paint surface caused by rubbing. CALCIMINE: A water-thinned paint composed essentially of calcium carbonate or clay glue. CAMEL HAIR: Trade name for tail hair from various types of Russian squirrels. Used for signwriter, lacquering brushings and lettering quills. CATALYST: An ingredient that speeds up a chemical reaction; sometimes used in two component paint systems. CAULKING COMPOUND: A semidrying or slow drying plastic material used to seal joints or fill crevices around windows, chimneys. CHALKING: The formation of a loose powder or the surface of paint after exposure to the elements. CHECKING: A kind of paint failure in which many small cracks appear in the surface of the paint. CLEAR COATING: A transparent protective and/or decorative film. COALESCING: The settling or drying of an emulsion paint as the water evaporates. COATING: paint, varnish, lacquer or other finish used to create a protective and/or decorative layer. COHESION: Attraction of molecules within a coating (how it holds together).
DURABILITY: The ability of paint to last or hold up well against the destructive agents such as weather, sunlight, detergents, air pollution, abrasion or marring. DYE, DYESTUFF: A colored material used just to dye or change color with little or no hiding of the underlying surface. EFFLORESCENCE: A deposit of salts that remain on the surface of masonry, brick or plaster when water has evaporated. EGGSHELL FINISH: The degree of gloss between a flat and gloss finish. EMULSION PAINT: Paint in which particles are suspended in water or oil with the aid of an emulsifier as in latex paint. ENAMEL: Broad classification paints that dry to a hard finish. They may be flat, gloss or semi-gloss. EPOXY: Clear finish having excellent adhesion qualities; extremely abrasion and chemical resistant. Epoxies are alcohol proof and very water-resistant. EROSION: The wearing away of a paint film caused by exposure to the weather. ETCH: Surface preparation by chemical means to improve the adhesion of coating. EXTENDER: Inexpensive and inert pigment added to paint for bulk and to lower costs. EXTERIOR: The outside surfaces of a structure. FADING: The loss of color due to exposure to light, heat or weathering. FEATHER SANDING: Tapering the edge of dried paint film with sandpaper. FERRULE: The metal band that connects the handle and stock of a paintbrush. FILLER: A product used to fill the pores of wood before applying a prime of finish coat. FILLER STRIPS: Strips made from specially treated wood, metal. Fiber or plastic in the center of a paintbrush, creating a reservoir of paint, thereby greatly increasing the paint carrying capacity. FILM: Layer or coat of paint or other finish. FINISH COAT: Last coat of paint or other finish. FLAKING: A form of paint failure characterized by the detachment of small pieces of the film from the surface of previous coat of paint. Cracking or blistering usually precedes it. FLASH POINT: The temperature at which a coating or solvent will ignite. FLAT: A paint surface that scatters or absorbs the light falling on it so as to be substantially free from gloss or sheen.
INHIBITOR: Material such as primer used to retard rusting or corrosion. INTERCOAT ADHESION: The adhesion between two coats of paint. INTERIOR: The inside surfaces of a structure. INTERMEDIATE COAT: The coating between the primer and finish often called a barrier coat. JOINT CEMENT: Cement used for drywall construction; also used as a bedding compound for joint tape and as a filler for nail holes. JOINT TAPE: Special paper or paper-faced cotton tape used over joints between wallboard to conceal the joint and provide a smooth surface for painting. KALSOMINE: See Calcimine. LACQUER: A fast-drying clear pigmented coating that dries by solvent evaporation. LAP: To lay or place one coat so its edge extends over and covers the edge of a previous coat, causing an increased film thickness. LATEX: A water-thinned paint, such as a polyvinyl acetate, styrene butadiene or acrylic. LEVELING: Ability of a film to flow out free from ripples, pockmarks and brush marks after application. LIFTING: The softening and penetration of a previous film by solvents in the paint being applied over it, resulting in raising and wrinkling. LIGHTFASTNESS: No loss of color due to exposure to light, heat or weathering. LINSEED OIL: A drying oil used in paint, varnish and lacquer. MARINE VARNISH: Varnish specially designed for immersion in water and exposure to marine atmosphere. MASKING: Temporary covering of areas not to be painted. MASKING TAPE: A strip of paper or cloth similar to adhesive tape, which can be easily removed, used to temporarily cover areas that are not to be painted. MASTIC: A heavy-bodied paste like coating of high build often applied with a trowel. METALLICS: A class of paints that include metal flakes in their composition. MILDEW RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating to resist the growth of molds and mildew. Mildew is particularly prevalent in moist, humid and warm climates. MILDEWCIDE: An agent that helps prevent molds or mildew growth on paint.
REMOVERS: Substances used to soften old varnish or paint so they may be removed easily. RESIN: A natural or synthetic material that is the main ingredient of paint and that binds ingredients together. It also aids adhesion to the surface. ROLLER: A paint application tool having a revolving cylinder covered with lambs-wool, fabric, foamed plastic or other material. ROPINESS: Paint dries with a stringy look because it did not flow evenly onto the surface. RUNS: Blemished film caused by excessive flow of coating. RUST PREVENTATIVE PAINT OR PRIMER: The first coat of paint applied directly to iron or steel structures to slow down or prevent rust. SAGS: Excessive flow, causing runs or sagging in paint film during application. Usually caused by applying too heavy a coat of paint or thinning too much. SAL SODA: Crystallized sodium carbonate. It is used for making cleaning solutions to remove grease and grime from old painted surfaces. SAND FINISH: Rough finish plaster wall. SANDING SURFACES: A heavily pigmented finishing material used for building the surface to a smooth condition. It is sanded after drying. SATIN FINISH: See Semi-Gloss SCRUBBABILITY: The ability of a paint film to withstand scrubbing and cleaning with water, soap and other household cleaning agents. SEALER: A thin liquid applied to seal a surface, to prevent previous paint from bleeding through from the surface or to prevent undue absorption of the topcoat into the substrate. SEEDS: Small, undesirable particles or granules other than dust found in paint, varnish or lacquer. SELF-CLEANING: Controlled chalking of a paint film so dirt does not adhere to the surface. SEMI-GLOSS: Having a luster between full and flat. SEMI-TRANSPARENT: A degree of hiding greater than transparent but less than opaque. SETTLING: Paint separation in which pigments accumulate at the bottom of the container. SET UP: A film that has dried so that it is firm is said to have "set up". SHAKE PAINTER: A rectangular-shaped flat pad with an attached handle that is used to paint shingles, shakes and other special surfaces and areas. SHEEN: The degree of luster of a dried paint film. SHEEN UNIFORMITY: The even distribution of luster over the entire surface of an applied finish. TEXTURE PAINT: Paint that can be manipulated by brush, roller, trowel or other tool to produce various effects. THINNERS: Solvents used to thin coatings. THIXOTROPY: The property of a material that causes it to change from a thick, pasty consistency to a fluid consistency upon agitation, brushing or rolling. TINT BASE: The basic paint in a custom color system to which colorants are added. TONER: Pigmented lacquer sealer that is applied by spray. Toners provide color and make the surface appear more even. TOUCH UP: The ability of a coating film to be spot repaired (usually within a few months of initial painting) without showing color or gloss differences. TURPENTINE: A colorless liquid, which is used as a thinner for oil paints and varnishes, distilled from the products of the pine tree. UNDERCOAT: A primer or intermediate coating before the finish coating. VARNISH: Transparent liquid that dries on exposure to air to give a decorative and protective and protective coating when applied as a thin film. VARNISH STAIN: Varnishes colored with a dye and without the same power of penetrations as the true stains, leaving a colored coating on the surface. VEHICLE: The liquid portion of paint composed mainly of solvents, resins or oils. VINYL: A resin with poor adhesion but good hardness, flexibility and resistance. Used for swimming pools, tank linings and marine equipment. VISCOSITY: The thickness of a coating as related to its ability to flow as a liquid. WASHABILITY: The ability of a paint to be easily cleaned without wearing away during cleaning. WATER EMULSIONS: Mixture of pigment and synthetic resin in water with low solvent emission, low fire hazard and toxicity and good durability and chemical resistance. WATER SPOTTING: A paint appearance defect caused by water droplets. WEATHERING: The effect of exposure to weather on paint films. WET EDGE: Length of time a wall paint can stand and be brushed back in to the next stretch without showing a lap. WITHERING: Withering a loss of gloss is sometimes caused by varnishing open-pore woods without filling pores, use of improper undercoating or applying top coat before undercoat has dried. WOOD FILLER: There are two kinds of fillers-paste and liquid. Paste fillers are something like a very thick paint and are composed of some solid powdered substance, usually silica or powdered quartz, mixed with linseed oil or varnish thinned with turpentine or benzine. |