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Prepping to paint stained trim- use TSP or something else?

15 years ago

I am preparing to paint the stained trim (am I crazy?) in our new house. What is the best way to clean it as part of the prep process? I have heard TSP mentioned alot, but is this the best to use? Is there something better or easier? And if I use the TSP, it needs to be rinsed I believe. Can someone confirm that for me?

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Comments (6)

Michael
15 years ago
If the house is new, you do not need to use a solution like that. A mild mixture of ammonia and water is fine (if it's dirty) If it's not dirty, proceed to the sanding process.

The sanding process is your best prep on stained trim. Sand to dull with #180 grit sanding sponge.Fill any nail holes with spackle at this time and sand with trim. Go lightly, just enough to dull it. Vacuum away dust and wipe clean.

Prime with a quality bonding primer. I suggest a heavy bodied primer for this. Heavy bodied primer will block better. Gripper & Fresh Start All Purpose Acrylic primer will do a great job. Sand primed surface to smooth with #220 grit sanding sponge. Light sanding is all that is required. Vacuum dust

Now Caulk all gaps and joints and wipe clean with damp cloth. Allow caulk to dry a minimum 4 hours prior to painting.

Use the highest quality 100% acrylic paint applied with a high quality Chinex brush. Two full coats.

Michael
witmom
Original Author
15 years ago
I should clarify...the house is new to us, but not new. It is about 4 years old. Will ammonia and water still do the trick, or do I need to go with the TSP (or something else) in this instance? Thanks for that info, Michael. It's exactly what I need...a step by step.
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Faron79
15 years ago
Gotta be careful with Ammonia in this case...if not rinsed WELL, you can peel your paint off in sheets!

If there were smokers in the house, use TSP and rinse WELL.

If not, use the powdered Dirtex...NOT the spray-version. Dirtex often doesn't need rinsing.

As usual, consider Michael's advice as The Holy Grail here...

Faron
Michael
15 years ago
Ok. Sorry for the misunderstanding. New to me is new. :)

Dirtex wins over TSP. TSP isn't needed and the risk is high.

You're obligated to show us pictures when done. :)

Michael
Jbrig
15 years ago
I am planning to paint a small amount of trim in my home, also. Is there a specific type of caulk you recommend that will take the paint/perform better for this type of application?
Michael
15 years ago
The best caulk you can afford. Dynaflex 230 is fantastic. SW also has quality trim caulk.

Michael

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