Q&A for How to Work With Enamel Paint

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  • Question
    Do I have to do a coat of primer on an old painted steel surface? If not, is there any harm in doing a primer coat?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    First, you should clean the surface thoroughly. Then you need to sand it. Finally, yes, you should add a coat of primer.
  • Question
    What is the best cleaner for enamel paint brushes?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    Try cleaning your enamel paint brushes with mineral spirits. If this isn't strong enough, use lacquer thinner.
  • Question
    How can I thin water-based enamel paint?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    To thin water-based enamel paint, use a product called flotrol.
  • Question
    Are enamel paint fumes toxic? If so, how should I protect myself?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    No, enamel paint fumes are not toxic. However, it's a good idea to wear a mask if the smell bothers you.
  • Question
    The gloss enamel got stringy when I brushed around the door knob. What should I do?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    If it got stringy, it must've still been a little wet. You'll have to sand it down.
  • Question
    Does enamel paint stick to varnished wood work that is over 40 years old?
    Mark Spelman
    Construction Professional
    Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. He has been a construction professional since 1987.
    Construction Professional
    Expert Answer
    Yes, enamel paint will stick to old wood work. To keep this from happening, use a good primer.
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