Thread: House Painting - Undercoat or not?

Originally Posted by El Duderino

That's where technique comes into play...heat up the area while scraping. Never once had an issue with it, on my house or my dads. Buy a cheap heat-gun with a single setting and expect that scenario to unfold...buy a good quality one with adjustable settings n there's no issue. I don't use gas heat-guns...only electric. A bad tradesman blames his tools, but a good tool will dictate the finish.

To use a bike analogy as well, big motor is fast in a straight line, but less power and better handling = cornering speed, which makes up the deficit and shows up the go-fast boys with technique and finesse.

we are in violent agreement

El duderino - thanks for your advice.

I think I will do it on a case-by-case basis. The western walls might need more love and care, while the more protected ones are probably ok to sand back slightly, seal, and paint.

Newhue - also thanks. I will use the acrylic undercoat - for all those reasons you mention. I hate oil based paint and would only use it if I really had to. Really I will do a quality job and I'm not sure if using an oil based undercoat will give me any noticeable difference in finish or life expectancy.

Pete