Paint the Floors; Renew the Abode’s Décor

These are difficult times; the economy, politics. No matter what anyone has or does not have they want change. Everyone longs for a fresh start. Many people are downsizing to smaller abodes or fixing up their present home. Decorating presents a welcome newness to our lives.

The easiest change you can make to a room is with paint. Not only can you paint the walls and ceiling, why not consider painting the floor?

• Painting a floor is a great option; it costs much less than refinishing wood and will update and add life to a concrete floor and even works well on primed metal. Having wood floors refinished can cost thousands versus painting which will only cost a couple of hundred. Paint presents a practical and beautiful solution.

Paint walls and ceiling first

• If you are painting the walls, trim, and ceiling then you will want to do this before you coat the floor. That way if you drip on the floor it will be cleaned up when you paint the floor.

Vacuum and wipe down floor thoroughly to remove all dust and dirt

• Any splintered and rough parts of a wood floor should be sanded and smoothed.

• Make sure that the floor is completely clean. Vacuum first and then mop the entire floor with a mildly soapy wet rag. Waiting for the floor to completely dry before starting to paint.

Make sure you have the room well ventilated before painting

• Oil-paint has very toxic fumes. Before you begin painting open the windows for ventilation. Make sure you keep the windows open during your full drying time of a week.

• If you are painting a small home or multiple floors then plan on camping out somewhere else for a week while the floor completely dries and the fumes dissipate. (This is a nice time to plan a vaca or visit with family)

Do not paint on a wet day or in the cold

• The room temperature should be kept around 70f degrees to insure quick and even drying.

  

Use polyurethane based porch and floor enamel

• Paint the edge of the room’s perimeter with a good quality brush that won’t leave any bristles behind.

• Use a ¼ inch paint roller with an extended pole attachment to coat the entire floor with one thin coat of paint. Even out any obvious paint globs from the side of the roller. Make sure to paint yourself out of the room, instead of into a corner; you do not want to have to attempt to fly over a wet paint floor or attempt to climb out a window.

Roll at least one more layer of paint on your floor

• You must wait at least 24 hours before applying a second coat. You can proceed with the second coat even if the floor is still tacky. Small footprints will be covered as you paint.

Wait at least 6 full days to walk on the floor

• After six days the floor should be completely cured and stunning. You will now be able to move in all of your furniture and finish your decor.

Add some fun by creating a pattern or an interesting border

• Create a painted “area rug” for added interest. Use stencils to make a beautiful floor that will draw the eye. Keep the walls simple so the emphasis is on the finished floor.

Take pleasure in your decorating accomplishment.  Enjoy you new décor. Remember, never be afraid to dance

Show me your support and subscribe to this blog, sign in under email subscription at the top of the column on the blog’s right side.

Read and subscribe to my Interior Design and Interior Decorating articles written for Examiner.com

Visit weberlifedesign.com for further inspired professional design advice!

!