We're constantly seeing social media posts with DIYers asking the question "best paint to use on stairs" for their carpet runner. In this article we will look at at the best paints to use, along with the process to use to get professional and more importantly durable results.
Best Paint for Stairs
We'll start off by answering the question. The best paint for stairs and all interior wood work which we've found is Johnstone's Trade Aqua Guard Satin. This paint ticks a number of boxes and there's a reason why it's becoming more and more popular with professional decorators. Aqua Guard is great to work with, it can be used over oil based paint which is a huge plus and it dries quickly. It's also very durable and durability is what you need when painting your stairs. Don't go to B&Q or Wickes though, as this is a trade paint. You will need to go to your local Johnstone's trade decorating store or order online. It doesn't end there though. If you want your paint to last then read on.
How to Paint your Stairs
You know the paint. Now learn the process.
Firstly remove the carpet. After this you will be left with bare wood / carpet gripper and glue. All this needs removing which will take time however, take your time as this will determine how good the end result will turn out.
Now everything is removed, it's time to bring out the sander. Take it slowly and get those stairs as smooth as possible. Remove all the lumps and bumps, as well as all the sharp edges. Make sure you're completely happy with how things are looking at this stage as it will be hard to go back when you start painting.
Now before you start using any filler or caulk there is something your need to do first to ensure a durable paint finish. You first need to use primer on any bare wood. There are a number of great wood primers out there so we won't go to much into which is best and why. If you need a recommendation we use Johnstone's Trade Joncryl Primer as it works in a wide range of circumstances and never lets us down. It goes on great and dries in around an hour.
OK, so that's the priming completed. Now is the time to caulk (not silicone as this is difficult to paint over). Apply caulk to any small gaps or areas where the stairs could move and allow to dry for a couple of hours.
Now this is the point where you can open the paint. Whether you start at the top or the bottom is up to you. We start in the more complicated areas and then move to the wider sections, so the paint is spread better to avoid drips. Make sure you apply the paint sparingly to get a good finish with less chance of runs. Work your way slowly to the end of the stairs and then a top tip. Go back to the beginning and go back over your work checking for runs. Everyone gets them and now is the time to catch them, before it's too late.
A second coat. You'll notice some sections look very questionable. Don't worry. Stick with it and apply a second coat. you'll be amazed by the transformation. If there are any section which look rough still, or maybe you've missed some runs, sand these first and then apply that second coat.
So there we have it. Are your new stairs looking Instagram worthy? share your pictures and let us know how you get on. If you've followed the above steps, you should have great looking stairs which last! Happy decorating!
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