If you want to revamp a room in your home, one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways is by painting it. And when it comes to painting over satin paint, you should know a few things.
Painting over satin paint requires a little extra preparation and care. The first step is to clean the wall. Dirt and dust will prevent the paint from adhering properly. Applying primer is also recommended. This will help ensure the paint adheres to the wall and covers properly.
In this article, you will learn:
- What kind of paint can you use over gloss
- What you need to know about sanding
- What you need to know about priming before painting
- How to paint over gloss paint
What Kind of Paint Can You Use Over Satin?
Paint Finishes
Satin still has a fair amount of gloss which needs to be removed before painting over it. Otherwise, the gloss will act as a barrier preventing the new layer of paint from adhering properly, resulting in a dimpled or uneven finish.
When painting over satin, you can use any paint, including flat, matte, eggshell, semi-gloss, and gloss.
Flat paint is the most forgiving and hides imperfections well. Eggshell paint has more sheen than flat but less than satin.
Semi-gloss and gloss paints have a higher shine than other finishes, so they’re best used for areas with a lot of wear and tear, such as trim or doors.
Paint Types
There are two types of paint that can be used when painting over satin paint, which are oil-based or water-based paint. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, so let’s take a closer look at them:
Oil-Based Paint
Pros:
- Provides a durable and long-lasting finish
- Resistant to scratches, stains, and chemical solvents
- Offers a glossy and smooth finish
- Better for surfaces that experience high traffic or exposure to elements
- Can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including metal, wood, and brick
Cons:
- Emits stronger fumes than water-based paint, which can be harmful to health
- Longer drying time, taking up to 24 hours to dry completely
- Requires solvents like turpentine for cleaning up
Water-Based Paint
Pros:
- Dries quickly, usually within an hour or two
- Emits fewer fumes and odors, which makes it a more eco-friendly option
- Can be easily cleaned up with water and soap
- Ideal for painting indoor surfaces like walls and ceilings
- Can be tinted in more colors than oil-based paint
Cons:
- Can easily be damaged by moisture or high humidity
- Doesn’t adhere as well to certain surfaces like metal or glossy finishes
- Can require more coats for an even and consistent finish
Using Water-Based Paint over Oil-Based Gloss
While it may be tempting to use water-based paint over an oil-based gloss, doing so will almost certainly result in a cracked and peeling finish. This is because oil and water don’t mix, and the two types of paint are incompatible with each other.
To achieve a successful outcome, it’s essential to take the appropriate preparatory steps. Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove any dirt and grease, then sand it. This will help create a surface to which the water-based paint can better adhere.
Once the surface is clean and sanded, the next step is to apply a suitable primer compatible with the water-based paint and the underlying oil-based surface.
It’s important to note that not all primers are created equal, so be sure to select one specifically designed for this purpose.
Why Choosing the Appropriate Paint Matters
Choosing the right kind of paint is an essential step for a successful painting project. Whether you’re painting over satin or gloss, it’s important to select a high-quality paint that is suited to the type of surface and the environment in which it will be used.
Priming Satin Paint Before Painting: What You Need to Know
What is Primer and Its Role in Painting Over Satin Paint
Primer is a type of paint that is used as a base coat before painting over a surface. Its primary role is to provide a stable and smooth surface to which the topcoat can adhere.
This is especially important when painting over glossy surfaces such as satin paint, as the topcoat may not stick well due to its slick surface.
Primer helps to improve the adhesion of the topcoat by filling in small cracks and irregularities in the surface, creating a uniform surface for the topcoat to cling to.
It also helps to prevent the topcoat from soaking into the surface, ensuring that the color of the topcoat remains consistent and vibrant. Primer can also help seal the surface, preventing stains or tannins from bleeding through the topcoat.
Types of Primers
Picking the right type of primer is just as important as choosing the right type of paint. There are three main types of primers to consider. Each type has its unique characteristics and is best suited for specific situations and surfaces.
Oil-based Primers
Oil-based primer is a type of primer that has been widely used in the paint industry for many years.
This type of primer is extremely versatile and can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, such as wood (painted or unpainted), steel, and other metals, and surfaces with existing paint, including interior and exterior walls.
One of the best features of oil-based primer is its effectiveness in preventing stains from showing through new coats of paint.
They are perfect for blocking stains caused by ink, nicotine, water, and other substances, which can be difficult to cover up without proper priming.
Oil-based primer is especially ideal for unfinished or bare wood surfaces, both indoors and
outdoors. This is because it works by sealing the porous surface of the wood, which helps the coat of paint adhere better and cover the surface more effectively.
Additionally, they are able to stop tannins, which can be released from certain types of wood like cedar or redwood.
It is important to note that oil-based primers have a longer drying time than other primers. However, it is well worth the wait because it provides an excellent base for your paint, ensuring that it will adhere better and last longer.
Latex or Water-based Primers
Latex primer, also known as water-based primer, is a popular choice for prepping unfinished drywall before painting. It offers numerous advantages over its oil-based counterparts.
One of the main benefits of using a latex primer on drywall is that it evens out the surface of the wallboard and any joint compound applied to it.
It also covers and seals minor stains from smoke, lipstick, crayon, and other sources. However, it may not be as effective at covering stains as oil- and shellac-based primers.
Latex primer is water-soluble, which means it is easy to clean up after use. Additionally, it is available in low- or no-VOC formulas, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.
Shellac Primer
Shellac primer is a highly effective type of primer that has been used for centuries to seal wood and other surfaces. It is particularly well-suited for interior paint jobs, especially those that require stain-blocking properties.
In fact, it is possibly the best primer for blocking severe water and smoke damage to walls and surfaces, and it can even seal in the unpleasant smells associated with smoke damage.
One of the key advantages of shellac primer is its exceptional ability to prevent various types of stains from bleeding through the new paint. This includes not only water, rust, and smoke stains but also wood tannins.
As such, shellac primer is excellent for use on a wide variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, plaster, and even plastic.
Another advantage of shellac primer is its fast-drying and highly adhesive properties. This allows it to create a strong bond between the surface and subsequent layers of paint, ensuring a smooth and uniform finish. Additionally, shellac primer can be used with oil-based and latex paints, providing great versatility.
However, it is important to note some drawbacks to using shellac primer. For one, it is not as versatile as latex or oil-based primers. It may not be suitable for all painting projects.
Additionally, shellac primer gives off more fumes than other types of primer, making it less desirable for use in poorly ventilated areas. Finally, shellac primer requires the use of denatured alcohol for clean-up, which can be an inconvenience for some painters.
Each type of primer has its own strengths and weaknesses, which make them ideal for particular surfaces and circumstances. The key is understanding each primer’s properties and picking the one that suits your painting needs.
Sanding Satin Paint Before Painting: What You Need to Know
Satin paint has a smooth, shiny surface that can make it difficult for new paint to adhere properly. Sanding the surface creates a rough texture that allows the new paint to grip onto the surface, resulting in a more even finish. Skipping this step can lead to paint peeling and chipping.
Additionally, sanding the paint can help remove any imperfections or drips from previous applications, resulting in a smoother surface for painting.
What Sandpaper to Use for Sanding Satin?
Use 120 to 220-grit sandpaper when sanding down the gloss layer for optimal results. Start with the coarsest grit and work your way up to the finer one, as this helps create a smoother one. Additionally, sand in the same direction as the grain to avoid leaving scratches or grooves on the surface.
How Much Do You Need to Sand Satin Before Painting?
Sanding down the gloss layer until it becomes dull and matte is generally recommended. This can vary depending on the type and brand of paint used, as some paints may require more or less sanding in order for the topcoat to adhere properly.0
Once you have achieved a uniform, dull finish, make sure to wipe away any dust with a damp cloth before proceeding with the painting.
Can You Paint Over Satin Without Sanding?
If you want to paint over satin without sanding, you should consider a few advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Saves Time – Sanding the entire surface can be time-consuming and tiring. Painting over satin without sanding can save you considerable time, making your project more efficient.
- No Dust – Sanding produces a lot of dust, which can be harmful if inhaled. Painting over satin without sanding will eliminate all the dust that would have been produced, making your work environment cleaner and safer.
Disadvantages:
- Will Not Stick Properly – If you don’t sand your surface, the new paint will not stick correctly, and it may chip or flake off.
- Uneven Surface – If your satin surface has rough patches or unevenness, not sanding can cause the new paint to highlight those areas, making your finish look less than perfect.
- May Not Last Long – Painting over satin without sanding may be a quick fix, but it might not last very long. Sanding generates a smooth surface that is free of oils and contaminants, allowing the new paint to adhere well and last longer.
Other Options for Painting Over Satin
One popular alternative to sanding when painting over satin is a deglosser. Deglossers are chemical solutions that are applied directly onto the paint’s surface and work to break down or soften the existing gloss layer, allowing for easier removal.
Deglossers can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them an ideal choice for many painting projects.
Another option is to use a paint stripper or a liquid sander. These solutions are designed to dissolve the existing gloss layer, allowing you to easily remove it without having to sand manually.
Paint strippers and liquid sanders can also help remove any contaminants on the surface of your paint, ensuring that the new coat adheres properly.
How to Paint Over Satin Paint
Tools and Materials
- Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer
- Paint
- Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit)
- Sanding block
- Paintbrush
- Paint roller
- Tack cloth
Step 1: Prepare and Protect the Surrounding Areas
Before you begin painting, preparing and protecting the surrounding areas is important to ensure they are not damaged during the painting process.
Start by removing all hardware, such as knobs and handles, from doors, cabinets, and other surfaces you plan to paint.
Next, cover the area with drop cloths and use painter’s tape to secure them. This will help keep any dust or paint from getting on other surfaces in the room.
Clean the area with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Inspect the areas for any imperfections. Use spackle or filler to fill in any holes, cracks, or other damages. Allow the area to dry completely before using sandpaper to smooth out any bumps, dents, or cracks.
Step 2: Remove the Gloss Layer
Once the area is prepped and ready, you have three options for removing the gloss layer: sanding, using a deglosser, or using a paint stripper or liquid sander.
Option 1: Sanding
Sanding is the most common and traditional method. It involves lightly sanding down the surface with sandpaper to remove any gloss and create a rough surface for the new paint to adhere to.
Use a sanding block or an electric sander for the best results. When you’re finished, use a tack cloth to remove any dust particles before moving on to primer.
Option 2: Deglosser
A deglosser is an easy-to-use solution that can help you remove the gloss layer without having to sand. Simply use a rag or sponge to apply the deglosser, then wait for it to take effect. Once the area has dried, you can move on to applying primer.
Option 3: Paint Stripper/Liquid Sander
Paint stripper and liquid sander are also great options for removing the gloss layer without sanding. Apply the solution to the surface, then wait for it to take effect. Once dried, you can move on to priming.
Step 3: Prime the Area
Priming is an important step in painting over satin paint, as it helps the new coat of paint adhere better. Use a primer specially designed for glossy surfaces, such as Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer Sealer. Apply the primer with a brush or roller and allow it to dry completely before moving on to painting.
Step 4: Paint
Once the primer is dry, you can start painting the surface with a brush or roller. Use high-quality paint and multiple thin coats for the best results. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Step 5: Inspection and Clean Up
Once you’ve finished painting, inspect the area for any imperfections or missed spots. Apply a final coat of paint to even out the finish if needed. When satisfied with the results, use a damp cloth to gently remove any excess paint from your tools and equipment.