4 Steps for DIY Paint Project Success

(Family Features) Painting is one of the easiest and most impactful DIY projects for homeowners to quickly update their homes. Whether it’s a new look in a master bathroom, adding a pop of color to the guest room, finishing off a basement remodel or anything in-between, a fresh coat of paint provides a fresh spin that’s all your own.

To make your painting project go smoothly, consider following these important steps. Take this task list from the experts at Purdy Professional Painting Tools into account before diving in to your DIY painting project.

Find inspiration. Having a final design in mind before starting your project can help you plan. From the obvious wall color to more intricate details like painting trim, doors, the ceiling and more, starting your project with a plan can help you avoid multiple trips to the store.

Remember, the details are important: incorporating the correct types and sheens of paint, using complementary colors, buying the proper amount of paint and more.

Collect the right tools. Part of the planning process includes ensuring you have the proper tools for the project. A paint brush, roller cover, roller frame, paint tray and extension pole are the basic essentials for your project’s success. From step ladders and putty knives to wood filler and drop cloths, it’s crucial to have everything you need.

However, keep in mind that not all tools are created equal. For example, when you use a high-quality paint brush, you’re more likely to paint straight lines when cutting in to corners and walls. You may also notice a much smoother finish, one without unsightly brush strokes, which means a more visually appealing result with less effort, too. One option is Purdy Brushes, which are specially designed and hand-crafted to ensure you get professional-quality results every time.

Prepare the area. Proper planning for your project depends on which room in the house you’re painting. The main rules of thumb include removing everything from your walls – including curtains, decor and switch plates – using drop cloths to cover floors; removing or lowering light fixtures from the ceiling; and emptying the room of tables, lamps, furniture and other movable objects. If this isn’t possible, push all the pieces to the center of the room and cover with drop cloths.

Don’t forget to prepare the surface you are going to paint. Patch and sand any holes or imperfections. Then wipe down surfaces you plan to paint with warm water, which helps remove dirt and dust that can sometimes prevent paint from adhering. If possible, open windows for better ventilation once you’re ready to start.

Clean up. When the painting process is finished and you’re appreciating the hard work, don’t forget the job isn’t done until you’ve properly cleaned up. Paint brushes and roller covers should be washed promptly after use to ensure they can be used again. Use warm water and mild detergent to clean then let air dry. If you end up with leftover paint, it can be helpful to save some for future touch-ups. One helpful tip is to write on the can what room or walls you painted, the date and color name. This information can be beneficial should you need to purchase more paint at a later date.

Find a tool selector to help you find the best brushes, roller covers and painting accessories for your project at purdy.com.

8 Tips for Safer Power Tool Performance

(Family Features) For many homeowners, a list of seasonal chores and home improvement projects can add up to a whole lot of work. Power tools often get called on for heavy use to whittle away at that list, but the batteries used to power these devices can pose certain risks.

Lithium-ion batteries have become quite common due to their efficiency, energy storage capacity, durability and safety. These batteries' higher energy potential in a smaller battery makes them ideal for cordless power tools, but higher energy density also means higher potential for damage when misused.

While they offer great versatility and portability, batteries also need to be handled properly to prevent potential dangers. Safe, proper use of lithium-ion batteries from the original tool manufacturer is key to preventing battery-related accidents.

Before operating a battery-powered tool, heed this advice from the experts at the Power Tool Institute, a leading voice on power tool safety issues and standards for the industry.

• Know that batteries are not interchangeable. It's important to only use batteries and chargers from the original power tool manufacturer. Original manufacturer batteries are specifically engineered and tested for use with the tools and chargers from the original manufacturer.

• Aftermarket batteries may not be tested to the same standards as original manufacturer batteries and therefore come with additional hazards that can result in fire, property damage or personal injury.

• Always transport and store lithium-ion batteries as instructed in the owner's manual.

• Avoid contact with metal objects, such as keys, coins, screws and nails, and liquids, which present safety hazards. Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage, such as crushing, cuts or punctures. Do not use a battery that has received a sharp blow, been dropped or is damaged.

• Never modify, disassemble or tamper with a battery. The performance of damaged or modified batteries can be unpredictable and dangerous. 

• Be mindful of abnormal battery behaviors such as failure to fully charge or hold a charge, longer-than-usual charging times, overheating, a noticeable drop in performance, unusual LED activity when placed on a charger, liquid leakage from the battery or melted plastic anywhere on the pack. These are indications of an internal problem.

• Do not immerse the battery or allow any fluids to flow inside. Conductive liquid ingress, such as water, can cause damage resulting in fire or explosion. Store your battery in a cool, dry place, away from combustible and flammable items.

• When disposing of a lithium-ion battery, never throw it into the trash or a municipal recycling bin, as it can become a fire hazard. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or place it in a receptacle specifically designed for recycling batteries. If your lithium-ion battery is damaged, contact the manufacturer.

For more information on safe battery use, storage and disposal for power tools, visit TakeChargeOfYourBattery.com, or find more tips for safe and proper operation of your power tools at PowerToolInstitute.com.

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