Rolling color onto wood or drywall is a snap. Painting other materials, though, can be more tricky.
In this guide, we offer advice on getting the color coating right the first time on a handful of other common materials you’ll find around your house.
How to Paint Masonry
From exposed brick walls to stone hearths, there can be plenty of masonry around your home you might be interested in painting.
To prep masonry for painting, scour unpainted bricks with a sponge or a nylon brush and warm, soapy water and let dry overnight. If the masonry has previously been painted, use a wire brush to remove chips and flakes, then smooth uneven areas with 100-grit sandpaper before cleaning.
To paint the surface, first seal its pores with a water-based primer designed for masonry. Then coat with latex paint. Use a thick-nap roller, and use a brush to cut in along the edges or to get paint into any crevices the roller can’t reach.
How to Paint Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Built-in bookcases, cabinets and trim pieces are often not made of solid wood. Instead, they’re constructed with medium-density fiberboard, or MDF. This material is an engineered wood product made from wood fibers combined with wax and resin, and compressed under high pressure.
MDF is relatively easy to paint, but it requires proper preparation to achieve a smooth, durable finish. The material absorbs moisture and can become “fuzzy,” so skip washing it. Sand unprimed material with 150-grit paper to give it a smooth finish. Factory-primed material is ready for paint.
When painting, keep the material from swelling by choosing a shellac- or an oil-based (not a water-based) primer. Cover the cut edges with two coats, sanding in between.
Top it off with latex paint, using a small brush to cut in and a short-nap (up to ½-inch) roller for even coverage over large areas.
How to Paint Metal
Radiators, heat registers and tin ceiling tiles can all be candidates for paint. Clean unfinished metal with soap and water and a sponge; immediately blot dry if iron or steel. On already painted metal, use a wire brush to remove loose chips, then smooth uneven areas with 100-grit sandpaper before washing.
Use an oil-based primer on ferrous metals (those containing iron) to prevent rust, or a water-based metal primer on nonferrous surfaces.
Opt for latex spray paint, one formulated to handle heat, where needed. Avoid drips by applying several thin coats, letting each coat dry in between.
How to Paint Plastic
You can paint plastic kids’ furniture or even outlet covers. Wipe the surface first with an ammonia-based cleaner, rinse with a damp cloth, and let dry. Rough up glossy or previously painted plastic using 150-grit sandpaper so that it will more readily accept the new paint.
Apply a bonding primer designed for plastic, and coat with latex paint. A wider brush covers in a few passes, minimizing brushstrokes. If you’re not confident about your brush technique, try a 4-inch foam roller or a spray paint made for plastic.
General Painting Tips
When painting any of these surfaces, keep the following tips in mind:
- Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using oil-based products or spray paints. Proper airflow helps in drying and prevents the inhaling of harmful fumes.
- Temperature: Paint adheres best when applied in moderate temperatures, typically between 50°F and 85°F. Extreme temperatures can affect paint consistency and drying time.
- Drying time: Allow ample drying time between coats and before using the painted surface. Rushing this step can lead to imperfections or damage to the finish.
- Protection: Use drop cloths and painter’s tape to protect surrounding areas from paint splatters.
Safety Precautions
Before starting any painting project, remember to prioritize safety:
- Wear protective gear: Use safety glasses, gloves, and a respirator mask when sanding or spraying paint. These items protect your skin, eyes, and lungs from harmful particles.
- Lead paint awareness: If you suspect old paint contains lead, visit epa.gov/lead for information on proper handling and removal. Handling lead paint incorrectly can be hazardous to your health.
- Proper disposal: Dispose of paint and related materials according to local regulations to protect the environment. Improper disposal can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife.
