Achieving a flawless finish in painting projects depends not only on your skills but also on the quality of materials you use. One such material that professionals and DIY enthusiasts rely on is the Advance Semi Gloss 793-80. This waterborne alkyd paint, known for its durable and smooth finish, is ideal for painting trim, doors, and cabinetry. However, proper application is key to unlocking its full potential. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to properly use Advance Semi Gloss 793-80 TDS for a perfect finish.
What Is Advance Semi Gloss 793-80?
Advance Semi Gloss 793-80 is a waterborne alkyd paint that combines the benefits of oil-based paint with easy water clean-up. It offers a smooth finish, perfect for areas that require durability, like doors, trim, and kitchen cabinets. The semi-gloss sheen provides a subtle shine that is easy to clean, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas.
Why Proper Application Matters
Using Advance Semi Gloss 793-80 TDS correctly is crucial because improper application can result in issues like streaks, uneven texture, or a finish that doesn’t last. Knowing how to prepare your surface, apply the paint, and maintain the finish will ensure your project looks professional.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you begin painting, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything ready will save you time and ensure a smoother process.
Materials:
- Advance Semi Gloss 793-80
- Primer (if needed)
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Stir sticks
Tools:
- High-quality brushes (for cutting in and details)
- High-density foam roller (for smooth surfaces)
- Paint tray
- Sandpaper (180-220 grit)
- Tack cloth or microfiber cloth
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is the foundation for any painting project. Without it, even the best paint won’t adhere well or look good. Follow these steps to prepare your surface:
- Clean the Surface: Remove any dirt, grease, or grime from the surface you plan to paint. Use a mild detergent and water for cleaning. For tougher stains, consider using a degreaser.
- Sand the Surface: If your surface has an old layer of paint or varnish, lightly sand it with 180-220 grit sandpaper. This helps the new coat of paint adhere better.
- Fill Imperfections: Use wood filler or spackle to fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections in the surface. Once dry, sand it smooth.
- Dust Off: After sanding, use a tack cloth or microfiber cloth to remove all dust from the surface. Any remaining dust particles can ruin the smoothness of the finish.
- Apply Painter’s Tape: To protect areas you don’t want to paint, such as edges or adjacent walls, apply painter’s tape. Make sure the tape is pressed down firmly to prevent paint from bleeding through.
Step 2: Priming the Surface
Priming helps the paint adhere better, improves durability, and provides a uniform base for the final color. If you’re painting over bare wood, a stained surface, or a very dark color, priming is especially important.
- Choose the Right Primer: For Advance Semi Gloss 793-80, a stain-blocking primer works best. If you’re painting a dark surface or one prone to stains, choose a primer that prevents bleed-through.
- Apply the Primer: Use a brush for detailed areas and a roller for larger surfaces. Apply one even coat of primer and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step. Follow the primer’s drying time as specified on the label.
- Lightly Sand the Primer: Once dry, lightly sand the primed surface with fine sandpaper (220 grit) to remove any imperfections. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
Step 3: Stir and Test the Paint
Before applying Advance Semi Gloss 793-80, stir the paint thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of the pigments and resins, giving you consistent color and finish.
- Stir the Paint: Use a stir stick to mix the paint for about 2-3 minutes. Avoid shaking the can, as this can introduce bubbles that will affect the finish.
- Test the Paint: Before starting the full project, test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the color and sheen match your expectations.
Step 4: Applying the Paint
When applying Advance Semi Gloss 793-80, you want to achieve a smooth and even finish. The key is using the right technique and tools for the job.
- Cut In with a Brush: Begin by cutting in the edges, corners, and detailed areas using a high-quality brush. Dip the brush into the paint and tap off the excess on the edge of the can. Apply smooth, even strokes along the edges.
- Use a Foam Roller for Large Areas: For larger, flat surfaces like doors or cabinetry, use a high-density foam roller. This will ensure a smooth, even coat without leaving roller marks.
- Apply Thin Coats: Instead of applying one thick coat, apply two or more thin coats of paint. This ensures better coverage and prevents drips or uneven textures.
- Allow Proper Drying Time: Between coats, allow the paint to dry for at least 16 hours. This ensures that the next coat will adhere properly without dragging the previous layer.
- Lightly Sand Between Coats: For a truly smooth finish, lightly sand the surface between coats with 220-grit sandpaper. Be sure to clean off any dust before applying the next coat.
- Final Coat: Apply the final coat carefully, ensuring an even distribution of paint for a flawless finish.
Step 5: Drying and Curing
After the final coat, it’s crucial to give the paint adequate time to dry and cure. Curing is the process by which the paint fully hardens and reaches its maximum durability.
- Drying Time: While Advance Semi Gloss 793-80 may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, it’s essential to wait at least 24 hours before handling painted surfaces lightly. For cabinetry or doors, avoid attaching hardware until the paint is fully dry.
- Curing Time: Full curing can take 7 to 30 days depending on the temperature and humidity. During this period, be gentle with the painted surfaces to avoid dents or scratches.
Step 6: Maintenance and Care
To keep your newly painted surfaces looking fresh, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Clean the surface with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the finish.
- Regular Dusting: Regularly dust or wipe down the surface with a microfiber cloth to prevent dirt build-up.
- Touch Up as Needed: If you notice small chips or scratches over time, use the leftover paint for touch-ups. Ensure the area is clean before applying touch-up paint.
Checklist for a Perfect Finish
Before starting, check off these key items to ensure success:
- Surface cleaned and dust-free
- Imperfections filled and sanded
- Primer applied and sanded
- Paint stirred thoroughly
- Edges cut in with a brush
- Thin, even coats applied
- Light sanding between coats
- Final coat applied smoothly
- Proper drying time between coats
- Full curing time respected
Conclusion
Achieving a flawless finish with Advance Semi Gloss 793-80 TDS is all about attention to detail and proper technique. By following these steps—preparing the surface, applying the paint correctly, and allowing ample drying and curing time—you’ll end up with a professional-looking finish that lasts for years. Whether you’re painting doors, trim, or cabinetry, this guide will ensure you get the best results from your project.