Painting old wood trim involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish. Here's a breakdown of how to do it effectively:
Preparation is Key
Before you even think about paint, you need to prep the trim properly. This involves:
- Cleaning: Use a damp sponge to clean all dirt, grime, and dust from the trim. This ensures the primer and paint will adhere properly.
- Taping: Dust the surrounding walls and ceiling to ensure painter's tape will adhere well. This is crucial for clean lines.
Priming for Success
Priming is a critical step, especially with older wood. It helps the paint adhere better and covers up any imperfections:
- Apply Primer: Cover any bare wood and spackled areas with a good quality primer.
- Drying Time: Allow the primer to dry completely, typically for 24 hours, before moving on to paint.
Painting the Trim
Once the primer is dry, you're ready to paint:
- Apply Paint: Carefully apply your chosen paint to the trim, using smooth, even strokes.
- Multiple Coats: You might need multiple coats for the best coverage and color saturation. Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
Summary Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep | Use a damp sponge to clean dirt and grime from the trim. |
| Tape | Dust off walls and ceiling around the trim to ensure painter's tape adheres well. |
| Prime | Apply primer to trim, covering any bare wood and spackled areas. |
| Dry Time | Allow primer to dry for 24 hours. |
| Paint | Apply paint to the trim. |
Following these steps will help you achieve a professional-looking finish on your old wood trim.
