Caulking Bathtubs
Mildew, a species of fungus, is a common blight in many parts of the home, from gutters and siding to laundry rooms to bathrooms. Because of the consistent dampness and warmth, bathtubs and showers are particularly susceptible to this unwelcome growth. While regular cleaning and drying can help prevent mildew growth, once it has taken hold in the grout or caulking, it is very difficult to remove. A.G. Williams, a professional painting contractor, has long experience in using caulk to help bathrooms look their best.
Does your bathtub or shower have corners or lines where the grime just never seems to clean out? It is probably mildew, and the best way to remove it is to cut out the old caulk and recaulk the tub using mildew-resistant caulk. This will prevent new mildew growth for a long time.
A.G. Williams, as professional painters, are experts in caulk removal and replacement. Our painters can cut away your mildewed caulk and recaulk your tub/shower surround with mildew-resistant caulk, restoring bright, clean lines and a fresh look to the whole bathroom. While we are at it, we can also inspect the caulking around your sink and vanity, and your baseboards, windows and doors.
Whenever you are dealing with any kind of fungus, be it mildew, mold or mushroom, painting contractors recommend dealing with the problem as soon as possible. The longer it grows unhindered, the more difficult and expensive it is to remove, and the more damage it can do. Mildew can also create health concerns if left unchecked.
Painting fine homes and businesses across New York and Connecticut, A.G. Williams is a professional painting company. We serve Westchester County and Fairfield County as well as Larchmont, Harrison, Rye, Mamaroneck, North Stamford, Darien, New Canaan and more.
How Do I Paint My Baseboards (Especially With Carpet Floors)?
Baseboards can be tricky to paint without getting paint on the walls or floors, and the process is even more meddlesome when there is carpet involved. With a few simple tips, the process becomes manageable, and a skilled do-it-yourselfer can paint baseboards, producing a crisp, attractive result.
In any painting project, you need to have the right materials for the job: A painter is only as good as his tools! Make sure you have a high-quality brush, blue painter’s tape and plastic to cover the floor. Next, you must prepare the surface. Wash any dust and dirt away, fill any holes and sand any rough places. Now you are ready for taping.
Tape the wall above the baseboard. Begin in a corner and pull 3-4 feet of tape, but not too tight. Press the loose end against the wall, and then run your finger down the tape to affix it. Push firmly against the edge that is against the baseboard. Continue this in strips until you reach the opposite corner. Tape the floor in a similar manner, but slip the tape under the baseboard if you are able. Use the tape to secure your plastic in place.
How Do You Paint Baseboards with Carpet in the Way?
Use a wide strip of painter’s tape, and place it on the carpet all along the edge of the baseboard. Now use a putty knife to gently tuck the taped carpet underneath the baseboard
What is the Best Painting Technique for Baseboards?
This is a matter of taste and preference. Many people prefer the look of brushed-on paint on trim and baseboards, but some prefer a foam roller or painting pad. Whatever method you use, when you load paint on the brush or roller, paint the middle of the board first, rather than the top or bottom. Then spread the paint up and down, moving across from one end of the board to the other. You want to avoid getting any paint beading or pooling on the tape, as it will seep around the tape, possibly ruining the surface behind.
Two more notes about taping: Never put tape on paint that is not fully dried and cured, and always remove your tape before the new paint has fully cured, or the paint will tear when the tape is removed.
For best results, run a light bead of caulk along the top of the baseboard. Moisten your finger and lightly run it along the caulk line to smooth it down. Make sure to use the same color caulk as your wall or baseboard.
If you have baseboards that need painting, consider hiring a reliable painting contractor like A.G. Williams. Our expert painters are efficient, courteous and professional, and will leave your baseboards looking crisp, flawless and beautiful. Contact us for service in Pound Ridge, Bedford, Cos Cob, Belle Haven, Stamford, Rye, Eastchester, Bronxville and nearby cities and towns.
How to Remove Fingerprints from Painted Walls
When children are young, it sometimes seems like you can chart their growth by the height of the fingerprints on the walls. Even orderly, clean-conscious adults, however, will eventually accumulate fingerprints around light switches, thermostats and other frequently touched items. This leaves nearly everyone, whether a renter or a homeowner, wondering, “How can I clean the fingerprints off my walls?”
Unfortunately, some paints are not washable, and even light scrubbing will remove the paint faster than it removes the fingerprints. In many cases, repainting is the only good way to restore the clean, clear beauty of a wall. By the time a wall has a noticeable amount of fingerprints, it usually also has some scuffs, dings and fading, and the time and money spent on repainting it is well worthwhile.
When your paint is relatively new and the marks are contained within a small area, it is often possible to remove fingerprints from walls with some careful effort. Here are some wall-cleaning tips that can work in a variety of settings. Remember, though, always to test the procedure first in an inconspicuous area to make sure it works.
Ammonia and Water: Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, with a mixture of 1-2 cups of ammonia in warm water. Scrub very gently, using a circular motion. Dry the wall quickly.
Baby Wipes: These can often break down and remove the oils in fingerprints, gently removing them from a painted wall.
Magic Eraser: Again, use a gentle circular motion. These are good for removing a variety of scuffs and fingerprints from painted walls.
If scuffs and fingerprints have your walls looking worn, A.G. Williams would be happy to help you erase the past and revitalize your home. Our interior painting services are considerate, efficient and professional, and we guarantee you’ll love the results!
A.G. Williams is an expert painting contractor, proudly serving Connecticut and New York, including North Stamford, Darien, New Canaan, Cos Cob, Riverside, Armonk, Briarcliff Manor and more.
