All your paint questions, answered!

Answers to some of the most commonly-asked painting questions.

May 4, 2021

How do I paint over gloss enamel with water-based paint?

Firstly, check if the surface has been painted with solvent-based (enamel) or water-based (PVA) paint by gently rubbing it with a cloth dipped in methylated spirits. If the paint comes off easily, then water- based paint was used. If not, enamel paint was used. Next, lightly sand the surface to remove the sheen. Apply a coat of Plascon Universal Undercoat and allow it to dry overnight. Thereafter apply two coats of your chosen water-based topcoat.

How do I remove mould from a ceiling?

Mix 4 litres of hot water with 1/2 cup chlorine-based bleach and 1/3 cup sugar soap solution in a bucket. Soak a sponge that has an abrasive side in the solution, squeeze out the excess, then gently clean the affected areas. Repeat the process until the mildew is gone. Rinse with clean water and allow the ceiling to dry properly. Paint the area with Plascon Kitchens & Bathrooms, which contains Microshield™ to inhibit the growth of micro-organisms.

I bought painted metal chairs and would like to repaint them a different matt colour. How do I do it?

Start by cleaning the chairs with Polycell Sugar Soap Powder or Liquid solution. Apply one coat of Plascon Universal Undercoat and allow it to dry. Apply a Plascon matt paint (such as Polvin or Cashmere) in your desired colour. If the metal chairs have an enamel or acrylic finish, then use water-based Velvaglo as the topcoat. If the chairs were coated in factory-manufactured products, another process should be used.

What kind of paint should I use over rough and uneven plasterwork, if I can’t have the walls re-skimmed?

If you use a matt-finish paint such as Plascon Cashmere for interiors, there is little or no reflection and the imperfections will not be highlighted as much. For exteriors, use a textured coating such as Plascon Micatex which will not only hide some of the flaws but will add its own texture to the wall.

Does Plascon have a paint to cover the rust on burglar bars or security gates?

Yes, however the product you use depends on the type and severity of the rust and whether you live on the coast or inland. Most burglar bars and security gates are made of mild steel, which will have a brown to orange rust. For that, Polycell End Rust can be used on the affected areas, followed by the use of Plascon Universal Undercoat. For the final coat, use non-drip Velvaglo oil-based or water-based paint. Note that oil-based Velvaglo should be used on interior surfaces only.

How do I protect the extension of a wall at the edge of a roof, a terrace, parapet, balcony or walkway?

All surfaces must be clean and thoroughly dry before you begin painting. Using a brush or roller, prime the surface with Plascon Plaster Primer and apply Plascon Multiseal. Build the sealant up to a thickness of 1mm (use three coats, allowing each to dry for four hours). Complete with two coats of topcoat.

What is the easiest way to keep walls in high traffic areas (where they are constantly being dirtied by finger marks and handprints) clean?

Ideally, you should use a paint such as Plascon Wall & All for outside walls or Double Velvet on interior walls, as it is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. If your walls are painted in a lesser-grade paint you can use Polycell Sugar Soap to remove most of the greasy hand marks and dirt. Never use an ammonia-based product or an abrasive cloth or sponge to clean your walls.

How do I repair a galvanised steel surface that has peeling paint?

Remove as much loose and flaking paint as possible. Rinse the surface thoroughly with water and allow it to dry. Within four hours of cleaning, prime the surface with Plascon Galvanised Iron Primer. Apply a coat of Plascon Universal Undercoat and allow it to dry. Finish it with Plascon Velvaglo water-based paint, in the colour of your choice.

Can I use wall paint on other surfaces, like home accessories?

If you use the correct primer, you can apply a topcoat to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal and ceramic items.

How do I paint tiles and melamine?

Remove oil and greasiness with Polycell Sugar Soap Powder solution and a scouring pad. Fill any cracks or imperfections with Polycell Polyfilla. Apply two coats of tile or melamine primer. Next apply a coat of paint with a brush, mohair roller or spray. Allow the first coat to dry thoroughly, then sand lightly and wipe clean. Apply the second coat, then sand the surface again before applying a topcoat.

What are VOCs?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are the chemicals found in the formulation of paints. These solvents are released into the air while you paint, along with a potent odour. The fewer VOCs you have in your paint, the better it is for you and the environment.

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