Caring for your Newly Painted Surfaces

Ahhhhhhh, we all know that amazing look and feeling of a freshly painted room. The walls, trim, and ceiling look new, clean, and flawless. Unfortunately, that clean, unblemished look only lasts for so long, especially if you share your home with children or “man’s-best-friend.” How, then, can you care for your newly painted surfaces so that “just painted” look remains as long as possible?

You could prohibit everyone from entering the space… or you could just use our tips to help you keep the surfaces sparkling clean and knick-free! Here are just a few ideas to maintain those newly-painted surfaces.

• Dust and wipe down the walls as a regular part of your biannual cleaning. Most of us think of this chore as something we only do during spring cleaning, but try to do it at least one other time during the year to get rid of typical dust, dirt, and other debris that can naturally take away the freshly painted look of the walls. Get rid of those spider webs in the corners by the ceiling while you are at it!
• For smudges, spare marks, or rubbings (possibly from furniture), take a sponge and use a simple combination of warm water and soap. These marks are common, especially around the trim, light switches, and corners of the room.
• For more difficult stains like splatters of food, crayons, or other stains, try a bit of baking soda on a damp sponge, or a gentle household cleaner. We do not recommend an erasing sponge as the sheen and color may be compromised.
• For scuff marks or knicks, wash the area and use putty to refill the area. Once dry, sand it down and paint over the area with leftover paint.
• For larger knicks, cracks or grooves, you may need to consider how long the paint has lasted and when you plan to repaint before tackling a repair job.

Need help keeping your newly painted room fresh? Call Jerry Enos Painting at 978-546-6843, or visit our website to speak to our color consultants.

Categorised in: How-Tos, Interior painting