FAQ’s

The number of coats of paint needed for full coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the colour and type of paint that you are using, the surface being painted, and the desired finish. Applying multiple coats helps achieve a more uniform and solid colour, hides any underlying imperfections or previous paint colours, and enhances the overall durability and longevity of your paint job.

There are times where additional coats may be required. For example, if you are transitioning from a darker to a lighter colour, or if you are painting over a highly textured or porous surface, you may need to apply an extra coat or use a Fleetwood primer to ensure proper coverage. It’s always a good idea to follow our recommendations on the paint can regarding the number of recommended coats and any specific instructions for achieving optimal coverage. Additionally, evaluating the coverage after each coat has dried can help determine if additional coats are needed to achieve the desired result.

The choice of paint finish for different surfaces depends on several factors, including personal preference, the purpose of the room, and the desired aesthetic. Here are some general recommendations for paint finishes

Matt: This finish has a smooth, non-reflective surface and works well for interior walls and ceilings in low-traffic areas like bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms. It helps to hide surface imperfections and is excellent for touch ups but may not be as easy to clean as other finishes. Fleetwood Matt has a low sheen level of 3% and is water based

Washable Matt: This has a low, flat matt finish that is ideal for all interior walls and ceilings in high traffic areas like hallways, kitchens and bedrooms, including kids bedrooms. It will withstand heavy wear and cleaning and has been awarded an International Class 1 in scrub rating. Fleetwood Easyclean Washable Matt has a low sheen level of 3% and is water based.

Sheen: This paint is for all interior walls and ceilings and for any room in the home that needs a wipeable paint with excellent stain resistance. Fleetwood Sheen has a sheen level of 12% and is water based.

Eggshell, Satinwood or Gloss: These finishes are for woodwork, metal, furniture and PVC surfaces and come in a variety of sheen levels. Eggshell offers the lowest sheen of 15% and the Gloss finish has a high sheen level of 80%. Fleetwood Advanced Eggshell, Satinwood and gloss are water based.

A primer paint is as an undercoat or base coat and prepares the surface before painting. It is designed to provide several benefits to your overall paint job:

1. Improved Adhesion: Primers create a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to, ensuring better adhesion and reducing the risk of peeling or flaking.
2. Enhanced Coverage: Primers can help improve the coverage of the final paint by creating a uniform base, especially when covering darker or highly textured surfaces. You can get your primer tinted into your topcoat colour which means fewer top coats
3. Stain Blocking: Certain primers are formulated to block and prevent stains from bleeding through the final paint layer, particularly useful when covering water stains, smoke damage, crayon/marker or tannin-rich woods.
4. Sealing and Smoothing: Primers can seal porous surfaces, preventing the absorption of excessive amounts of paint and reducing unevenness or blotchiness. They can also help smooth out imperfections and create a more even finish.
5. Increased Durability: By providing a stable and consistent surface, primers contribute to the longevity and durability of the paint job.
   Primer types can vary based on the intended surface and specific requirements. It is important to ensure you have the correct primer for the surface you are painting. Ask in store if you are unsure of your primer paint.

Preparing walls for painting is an essential step to ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish. Here are the general steps to follow:

1. Clear the Room: Remove furniture, decorations, and any other items from the walls and surrounding area. Cover the floor and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect them from paint splatters or dust.
2. Clean the Walls: Dust, dirt, and grease can affect paint adhesion, so it’s crucial to clean the walls thoroughly. Use a mild detergent solution and a sponge or cloth to remove any grime or stains. Rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
3. Repair Any Damage: Inspect the walls for any holes, cracks, or imperfections. Fill these areas with filler or caulk and and smoothen them using a putty knife. Once dry, sand the repaired spots by hand or with a professional sander until they are flush with the surrounding wall surface.
4. Sand the Walls: Lightly sand the entire wall surface using a fine-grit sandpaper. This helps create a slightly rough texture for better paint adhesion and also smoothens out any bumps or imperfections. Be sure to remove any sanding dust with a damp cloth afterward.
5. Prime the Walls (if necessary): If you are painting over a highly porous surface, new drywall, or areas with stains or discoloration, applying a coat of primer is recommended. Primer helps seal the surface, promotes better paint adhesion, and ensures consistent colour and coverage.
6. Tape and Protect: Use Fleetwood Washi Tape to mask off areas you don’t want to paint, such as trim, windows, or ceilings. Apply the tape carefully and ensure it adheres properly to prevent paint bleed or smudges.
7. Final Inspection: Before proceeding with paint application, inspect the walls once more to ensure they are clean, smooth, and properly prepared. Make any necessary touch-ups or repairs if needed.

Following these steps will help ensure that your walls are properly prepared for painting, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.