Putties correct minor imperfections on surfaces such as holes and hairline cracks. That’s why you need it if you want your surface to look as smooth and beautiful as possible.
Boysen has several putty products for different types of surfaces. Here, we’ll be sharing with you a few important things to remember when using use-as-supplied putties (a.k.a. those that you can use directly out of the can).
Choose the Right One
Each putty product has its own specific use and purpose. Just like paint products, there are putties specific for use on different types of surfaces. And, it doesn’t stop there.
You also need to consider the thickness of the imperfection you want to correct, if you’re working on interiors and exteriors, and the other products you’re using with the putty. Otherwise, you risk encountering problems that arise from paint incompatibility.
For example, though Boysen Masonry Putty and Boysen Perma-putty are both for interior concrete, they do have one major difference. The former can correct imperfections only up to 1mm in thickness while the latter can correct imperfections up to 2mm in thickness. And note that these two are for interiors only. For exterior concrete, the product most appropriate is Boysen Acrytex Cast.
If you want to be sure that you’re using the right putty for your project, check the putty’s product page on the Boysen website. Look at your paint product’s painting schedule as well. It should indicate which putty product is best for it.
Mix Well and Don’t Apply Too Thickly
The first thing you do once you’ve opened a container of putty is to give it a good mix in the can. This will help thin out the consistency a bit and make it easier to apply.
Keep in mind that use-as-supplied putties are to be applied straight out of the can and that there are no thinners or reducers you can add to change their consistency. Do not mix water, paint, or anything else into these products.
Also, remember to avoid applying putty products too thickly. When you do so, you risk having the material crack over time due to shrinkage and movement.
Spot Prime After Applying Putty
Putty can affect the color and sheen of your topcoat. So, Boysen experts suggest that you spot prime after you’ve applied your putty.
Spot priming means that after your putty has had enough time to dry, you apply primer over it. Once that layer of primer is dry, that’s when you can apply your topcoat. This will help ensure that your topcoat is uniform in color and sheen, and gets you closer to achieving that flawless paint job.
If you liked this blog post, subscribe to the Let It B newsletter. We’ll send you a short and sweet email every week about paint, colors, and home interiors.
