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If you made a mistake on your latest DIY project, don’t panic. These expert tips for fixing paint runs will ensure the renovation is worthy of a professional.
While prevention is the best solution, you can repair paint runs while they are still wet or even dry. Paint dripping usually occurs when there is too much paint on the brush or roller or when the paint is too thin.
So before you start painting your walls or trim, learn how to fix paint runs for professional results.
First, don’t worry: paint runs are usually easy to fix. The following expert tips will help you make sure no one knows this ever happened.
If you notice paint dripping while the paint is still wet, it is best to fix it immediately to avoid any inconvenience later.
“If the paint is still damp, simply take a brush and blot up the dripping paint,” says Sarah Lloyd, interiors and paint expert at Valspar (valspar.co.uk, for UK residents). Do this in the same direction as the paint. Remaining paint and smooth it out until it blends in with the rest of the wall.”
However, make sure you only do this when the paint has not yet started to dry, otherwise you could create an even bigger problem.
An expert from paint company French said: “Once the surface of the paint starts to dry, trying to brush away the drips won’t work and may make a small problem worse by smudging the partially dried paint.
“If the paint gets sticky, let it dry completely—remember, this may take longer than usual because the paint is thicker.”
Learning how to fix paint runs is a useful painting tip that’s worth mastering. What’s the best way to start? Use sandpaper to smooth it out.
“Try using fine to medium sandpaper and see how it goes. Continue sanding along the length of the drop rather than across it – this will minimize the impact on the surrounding paint.
Sarah Lloyd adds: “We recommend starting by sanding down the raised edges and smoothing out any rough edges with 120 to 150 grit sandpaper. You just need to do this carefully until the raised edges are smooth. If you sand too hard, you may end up looking up.” removing the flat paint underneath.
“Remove as much of the dripping water as possible, then sand away any remaining residue—again, along the entire length of the defect mentioned above,” says French. “If the paint underneath is still a little sticky, you may find it easier if you give it more time to dry before sanding.”
This step may not be necessary, but if you find that the process of removing dry drips has resulted in deep scuffs and scratches, you may need to use putty to smooth out the surface.
“Choose a putty (or all-purpose product) that is suitable for the surface you are painting,” says Frenchick. “Before applying, according to the instructions, prepare the surface by sanding it smooth. Once dry, lightly sand and paint again.
“Some paints work better than fillers if you use a primer. Choosing a self-primer means you don’t have to worry about adhesion. However, some fillers can be porous and absorb paint, causing an uneven surface – if this happens. in this case, you may need to lightly sand again before applying a second coat of paint.
Once you’ve sanded the drip and painted the surrounding area (if this step is necessary), it’s time to cover the area with paint.
“You’ll need to use the same painting method you used when you first decorated it,” advises Valspar’s Sarah Lloyd. “So, if last time you painted the wall with a roller, use a roller here too (unless the repair is very, very minor).
”Then on the technical side, shading helps blend the paint so the repair doesn’t look as obvious. This is where you apply the paint as you go through the repair process and in long, light strokes, work outward and a little further. . Apply the paint in small quantities at a time until the damage will not be covered. This will help stir the paint for a seamless repair.
The last thing you want is dripping paint ruining the aesthetics. One of the best ways to protect your DIY projects from drips is prevention. Frenchick starts by giving some tips on how to avoid paint runs.
“Yes, you can sand out paint runs,” says Valspar interiors and painting specialist Sarah Lloyd. “Sand the edges of the paint so it adheres perfectly to the wall.”
“Once the wall is dry, apply the first coat of paint, starting from the center and working out to the edges. Let the first coat dry and check if another coat is needed.
“If the hard paint drops are small or light, they can be removed by sanding,” says French.
For larger, more visible drips, it is best to use a clean scraper or similar tool to remove most of the solidified drips. Sand the remaining portion with fine to medium sandpaper.
She adds: “Try not to damage the surrounding paint to minimize the area of damage. Sanding along the length of the drop pattern will help. Dust clean and repaint using the original construction method to reduce the chance of getting a different finish. Sex can stand out.
”Try to get into the habit of keeping an eye on paint drips as you paint, since brushing or rolling off wet drips is the fastest and easiest way to get rid of paint drips,” says French.
“For dry paint drips, you can sand them off if they aren’t too noticeable. For larger drips, use a clean scraper to remove most of them, then sand them smooth.
“Try not to damage the surrounding paint to minimize the area of damage. Sanding along the length of the drop pattern will help. Remove dust and repaint using the original construction method to reduce the likelihood of a different finish.
Ruth Doherty is an experienced digital writer and editor specializing in interiors, travel and lifestyle. She has 20 years of experience writing for national websites including Livingetc.com, Standard, Ideal Home, Stylist and Marie Claire, as well as Homes & Gardens.
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Post time: Dec-20-2023