A common question we see on social media is, "are there any non-yellowing paint?" and "which is the best water based paint for painting over old gloss?" This article will address these questions, explaining how to prevent your skirting boards from yellowing. We'll also discuss the benefits of water-based paints and the different finishes available, focusing on the growing preference for satin finishes over gloss finishes.
Why Do Skirting Boards and Doors Turn Yellow?
The yellowing of skirting boards and doors is typically due to older oil-based paints. These paints are prone to yellowing, especially in low-light areas. UV light from daylight helps keep these paints whiter, so in darker spaces, the yellowing becomes more noticeable after a few years. Fortunately, there's a solution to this problem, though DIY enthusiasts need to be aware of potential pitfalls.
Which Paint Should You Use to Prevent Yellowing?
Since oil-based paints are the culprit, switching to modern water-based paints is the solution. Water-based paints remain whiter for longer, but caution is required. You cannot paint directly over oil-based paint with water-based paint without preparation, as this will lead to flaking and peeling.
Choosing the Right Paint Finish
Most people understand a gloss finish as this was more popular in the past. This is the shiny finish picture right in the picture above and is less common nowadays. Then there is a Satin finish. This is picture centre in the picture above. This is by far the most commonly used finish in the UK currently, where 95% of homeowners pick for their home. If you are unsure of the finish you want then this is the one to go for. Then we have a matt finish. This is pictured left and is actually relatively new when talking about skirting boards. This is less common but is growing in popularity. You will hear Eggshell discussed. This is somewhere between a matt and satin finish however, it is less and less popular. As mentioned if you're unsure then we're reasonably confident then satin finish is the one for you.
How to Paint Water-Based Paint Over Oil-Based Paint
To prevent peeling when painting water-based paint over oil-based paint, you must use a specific primer. At Pure Perfection Painters, we recommend Zinsser AQUA BIN or Johnstone's Trade Joncryl. These primers perform well in various applications and are available at trade centers like Brewers or Johnstone's Trade Centre.
Using a primer eliminates the need for sanding your skirting boards and doors. One coat of primer is sufficient!
A New Solution
Recently, we've adopted a new approach at Pure Perfection Painters. Johnstone's Trade Aqua Guard Satin offers the benefits of water-based paints without the need for a primer when painting over oil-based paint. It requires light sanding first but is easy to work with and extremely durable, making it the best performing and reasonably priced paint on the market.
Conclusion
Painting over oil-based paint has been a challenge for decorators and DIY enthusiasts alike. However, with advancements in paint technology, the need to check for oil-based paint and needing to apply an extra primer has been simplified. Johnstone's Trade Aqua Guard Satin is a versatile solution that ensures a perfect finish. Happy decorating!
Want to see our Youtube video on the subject. CLICK HERE
Comments