Applying emulsion paint over gloss paint requires proper preparation to ensure the emulsion adheres correctly. Two common methods are sanding and using a specialized primer like Zinsser BIN.
Method 1: Sanding and Painting
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Prepare the Area: Cover surrounding areas with drop cloths to protect them from dust and paint splatters.
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Clean the Gloss Surface: Thoroughly clean the gloss surface with sugar soap or a similar degreaser to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants. Rinse well with clean water and allow to dry completely.
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Sand the Gloss: Use a medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit) to sand the entire gloss surface. The goal is to create a "key" for the emulsion paint to grip onto. Don't skip this step – it's crucial for adhesion.
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Remove Sanding Dust: Wipe down the sanded surface with a damp cloth to remove all sanding dust. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before proceeding.
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Apply Emulsion Paint: Apply two coats of emulsion paint, allowing each coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Method 2: Using Zinsser BIN Primer
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Prepare the Area: Cover surrounding areas with drop cloths to protect them from paint splatters.
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Clean the Gloss Surface: Thoroughly clean the gloss surface with sugar soap or a similar degreaser to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants. Rinse well with clean water and allow to dry completely. This is an important step for a clean surface.
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Apply Zinsser BIN Primer: Apply one coat of Zinsser BIN primer to the entire gloss surface. This primer is shellac-based and provides excellent adhesion to glossy surfaces without the need for sanding. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.
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Apply Emulsion Paint: Once the Zinsser BIN primer is completely dry, apply two coats of your chosen emulsion paint, allowing each coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Choosing the Right Method:
- Sanding: A good option when you prefer a more manual approach, but it can be time-consuming and create dust.
- Zinsser BIN: A quicker and less messy option, especially for large areas. However, Zinsser BIN requires proper ventilation due to its solvent-based formula and can be more expensive than sandpaper.
Important Considerations:
- Drying Times: Always adhere to the paint manufacturer's recommended drying times between coats.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation when working with paints and primers, especially solvent-based products like Zinsser BIN.
- Safety: Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and a mask, when sanding or painting.
In summary, you can successfully paint emulsion over gloss by either thoroughly sanding the gloss surface to create a key or by applying a coat of Zinsser BIN primer, which provides excellent adhesion without sanding. Always clean the surface before starting and allow sufficient drying time between coats.
