Why the Two-Coat Application is a Standard Rule for Repaint Projects

If you are investing in repainting your property, whether it be a small renovation endeavor or a large scale upgrade project, it is important to get the job done right. One of the most common questions that arises during the initial project planning and budgeting phase is, “How many coats of paint do I need?”. Generally speaking, a minimum of two coats of paint is the standard procedure when it comes to achieving a seamless finish with full coverage and the ideal durability protection. Depending on the surfaces being painted, sometimes a third coat of either a primer or undercoat paint is required. In this article, we will explore why it is so important to have at least two coats of paint applied and what considerations to have in mind for your next repaint project.

Wear and Tear

A fresh coat of paint is not only pleasing to the eyes, but also plays a critical role in protecting a building’s structural integrity and longevity from everyday usage and natural degradations. Using a single coat of paint can cause unwanted outcomes such as premature peeling or uneven finishes. Conversely, a second coat of paint will eliminate these issues, and provide coverage that lasts for years to come.

Quality of Paint Matters

The quality of the paint chosen can have a direct impact on the outcome of the paint application. Higher-quality paint will adhere to surfaces better, creating that flawless finish you’ll want with fewer coats of paint. On the other hand, lower-quality paint may create uneven pigmentations resulting in more coats needed.

Types of Surfaces

The decision on the number of coats to apply largely depends on the types of surfaces being painted - whether it be exterior or interior, newly unpainted drywall or repainting a surface that contains pre-existing paint. A bare drywall will require a primer and two coats of paint. In some cases for surfaces with pre-existing paint (and especially if the colors are different), an undercoat is required to help the fresh paint adapt to the new color hues.

Conclusion

Applying the appropriate number of coats is essential for maximizing the protection that a fresh coat of paint provides. As the exterior and interior walls of your property are consistently exposed to deteriorations, it is recommended to use higher quality paint and not cut any corners when it comes to paint applications. You will benefit from having much nicer looking finishes, even coverage, and longer-lasting protection. A professional painting contractor can help you determine the best solutions for your project when it comes to identifying the number of coats needed and the best paint to use.

Husky Painting Ltd. has been providing paint and restoration services for commercial and stratified-residential buildings in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland for the past 20 years.