Time to sort fact from fiction. Even in painting, there exist myths that need to be busted. Here are a few common ones you need to leave behind if you want to become a more competent and knowledgeable painter.
Myth #1: You can apply any type of paint on any type of surface.
Here’s a big one. Some, especially those new to painting, may think that paint can go on any surface. Painting would be a much simpler task if this was the truth. Sadly, it isn’t. This is why Boysen carries a wide range of products—because you need to match the type of paint with your surface.
Each paint product is specifically formulated for the surface they’re meant to be applied. This is to ensure good adhesion and to provide adequate protection to the surface. To put it simply: concrete paint for concrete, wood paint for wood, metal paint for metal, and so on. Matching the wrong type with the wrong surface can lead to adverse reactions.
First time hearing about this? This can help: Common Painting Mistakes: Using the Wrong Type of Paint for the Surface.
Myth #2: Applying any clear coating on top of paint will make it last longer.
Many wrongly assume that applying any type of clear coating on paint will make it more durable. In particular, we’re talking about those who think this about Boysen Clear Acrylic Emulsion. We hear it a lot, and we’re once again reiterating that this is not the case.
Boysen Clear Acrylic Emulsion is clear and dries to a glossy finish but it is not meant to be used as topcoat. It is a water-based, acrylic coating that serves as a barrier against dampness on concrete surfaces. Hence, it’s applied between the primer and topcoat so it can stop moisture before it can reach your paint.
Learn more about it here: Frequently Asked Questions: Boysen Clear Acrylic Emulsion.
Myth #3: Palitada and masilya are the same thing.
Some Pinoys use skimcoat (a type of plastering material (palitada) and putty (masilya) interchangeably, but don’t be mistaken. Though they both correct surface defects, they’re different things.
Skimcoat is for more noticeable defects such as honeycombs and waviness on bare concrete, usually over a large surface area such as the entirety of a wall. It’s also used to give walls a smoother texture if the bare concrete is rough or bumpy.
Putty is for minor imperfections over small areas such as when spot-correcting hairline cracks and slight unevenness. It’s used on already primed or painted walls.
Here’s more info: Know the Difference: Skimcoat vs. Putty for Concrete Surfaces.
Myth #4: You can mix and match all paint products.
As paint products differ in formulation from each other, it follows that some of them cannot go together. Use primer that’s not compatible with your topcoat, for example, and you could end up with an unwanted adverse reaction you’ll have to deal with.
We even received an inquiry from a Boysen user in this exact situation. They wanted to use Boysen Acrytex but used Boysen Permacoat Latex as primer. Sadly, they were advised by the Boysen Technical Department to strip the surface back to bare.
If you’re not sure what paint products to use, check the painting schedule. A painting schedule is essentially a quick guide for the other necessary products that are compatible with your already chosen product.
This should tell you more: Painting Schedules: How to Read Them and Why They’re Important.
Myth #5: All paints have a strong chemical smell.
There are, no doubt, certain types of paint that have a strong chemical smell. Take enamel paints as an example. Enamel paints are commonly oil-based paint used for wooden and metal surfaces. Unfortunately, these do smell rather strong especially if you’re working indoors or in a room with little ventilation. However, not all paints are like this!
One of the things that’s well-liked about water-based paints is that they do not have that strong chemical smell. There are even Boysen products that are so low-odor there’s no need to leave the room unoccupied for long if at all, like in the case of Boysen Healthy Home.
And for painting on wood, you can opt for Boysen WoodPrime. It’s a water-based primer for low-touch wooden surfaces. Then after priming, you can also use a water-based topcoat like Boysen Permacoat Latex. There’s also Hudson Timbercoat for wood and parquet floors that only gives off a mild odor.
Hope this blog post has helped you become a more informed painter! Got questions? Feel free to reach out to the Boysen Technical Department at ask@myboysen.com. You can also call (02) 8363-9738 local 413 to 418 during office hours for a one-on-one consultation.
