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1. HOW TO TELL IF A SURFACE WAS PAINTED WITH WATER BASED OR OIL BASED PAINT?

If the paint is peeling, pull off a piece and bend it. if it cracks, it is probably an oil-based paint. If it seems flexible, it is probably a water-based paint. Another way to check is to sand a small area of the surface. If the paint easily sands into a fine powder, it is likely an oil-based paint. Water-based paints usually resist sanding and gum up sandpaper. If you still can't tell, rub a section of the surface with a cloth, wet with lacquer thinner. If it significantly softens, it is most likely a water-based paint. An oil-based paint will most likely not be affected by the solvent. Be sure to use appropriate safety practices when using lacquer thinner.

2. FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE TOUCH-UP

· Temperature - Touching up at different temperatures vs. that of the original application may result in color differences.

· Dark colors are harder to touch up because they are more sensitive to variations in the porosity of the surface.

· Flat paints touch up better than paints with higher gloss. Latex paints touch up better than oils because there is much less change in gloss and color upon aging.

· If possible always use the same method as that of the original application. Spraying, rolling, brushing, ragging, etc.

· Using the original batch for touch up will produce better results.

3. BACK-ROLLING IMPROVES THE LOOK AND PERFORMANCE

Apply first coat by airless spray, followed immediately by back-rolling ensures an even application of the paint and helps ensure bonding. This also helps to force paint into hairline cracks typical of wood or stucco exteriors, improving durability.

4. IMPROVE YOUR CAULKING JOB

The quality of the caulking job affects the overall appearance of the paint job. Use a small bucket of water and a rag. Apply the caulking and immediately pass over the caulking with a wet finger which will smooth out the caulking. If done properly, no lines caused by the caulking will be visible after paint is applied. Do not use too much water, because this can cause the caulking to crack.

5. CORRECTLY DISPOSING OF SOLVENT SOAKED RAGS

Rags that have been soaked in paint thinner, solvents or have been used to apply oil or lacquer based stains should be spread out to dry or soaked in water and placed in a fireproof container. Rags may catch fire by spontaneous combustion. Placing these rags in a typical garbage can which most people have setting right next to their home, can result in your home catching fire.

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