As you stand in front of your kitchen cabinets or wooden fence, you’re faced with the age-old question, “Should I paint or stain wood?” It’s a conundrum that many homeowners face when it comes to refreshing a wooden item, either in their house or on their property. And the answer isn’t as simple (or maybe it is) as you might think: you can use either! But here’s where it gets a bit complicated. Paint and stain each have their pros and cons that they bring to the table. That means deciding which to use requires a bit of research or a discussion with a painting professional at VanDerKolk Painters . We’ve got you covered. By the end of this blog post, you’ll know all about paint vs. stain when it comes to wood, so you can make a more informed decision for your next project. Paint vs. Stain: What’s the Difference? Your first instinct might be to wave your hand and think that paint and stain are essentially the same. That’s where you’re wrong. Paint is formulated to sit on top of the wood and create a solid, opaque layer. It hides the grain completely and generally provides stronger protection from moisture and UV rays. However, paint is more likely to chip or peel over time if it is not applied correctly. Stain, on the other hand, soaks into the wood and enhances the natural grain rather than covering it for a more natural look. It comes in various opacities, including clear, semi-transparent, and solid. Stain also requires less prep work than paint and is less likely to peel and crack. It can offer some protection to the wood against UV rays and moisture. The main difference? Paint allows you to choose bold colors to fully cover the wood, while stain highlights and enhances the wood’s natural appearance. Paint for Wood Projects Paint is a great choice for wood projects that you want to fully transform using an opaque color while also adding a protective barrier. Advantages of Using Paint on Wood There are many advantages to using paint on wood projects. Wide Color Variety: You can choose from thousands of paint colors to use on your wood project, ensuring it matches your home’s interior or exterior aesthetic. UV Protection: Modern paint formulas contain UV inhibitors to prevent the paint from fading, while also protecting the wood beneath it. High Durability: Paint completely seals the wood, creating a thick, solid layer that blocks out moisture, mildew, and dirt while preventing issues like fading and discoloration, rot and mold, and cracking or warping from the weather. Conceals Flaws: Paint can cover knots, stains, and grain patterns in wood, which also helps protect against damage from wear and tear, especially in high-traffic or high-touch areas. Disadvantages of Using Paint on Wood As with everything, there are some disadvantages to consider when using paint on wood surfaces. Peeling Over Time: While paint is durable, it can peel over time due to poor surface preparation, the combination of incompatible paint and primer, moisture, and natural aging and wear. Hides Natural Grain: If you want to maintain the natural look of wood and see the natural grain pattern, paint will cover it up completely, providing a solid colored surface. Requires More Preparation: Painting wood requires you to put in more prep work, such as cleaning and repairing the surface, sanding, priming, and adding multiple coats of paint. Related: How Many Coats of Paint Do I Need? A Simple Guide for Surfaces and Paint Types Types of Paint to Use on Wood Choosing the right type of paint for your wood project can ensure longevity, durability, and a professional-looking finish. Acrylic Paint Acrylic paint is a versatile, water-based option ideal for both indoor and outdoor wood surfaces. It offers strong adhesion, especially with proper priming, minimizing the risk of peeling or flaking. Its flexibility allows it to expand and contract with the wood, protecting against cracking due to temperature and humidity changes. Acrylic also resists UV rays and moisture, helping preserve both color and wood integrity. With low VOC content , it’s a safe and eco-friendly choice for interior projects. Related: Acrylic vs. Latex Paint: Which Should You Choose? Oil-Based Paint Oil-based paint is highly durable, making it ideal for exterior wood and high-traffic areas. It adheres well and creates a hard, smooth finish that resists wear. Compared to acrylic, it offers superior water resistance, making it a great choice for moisture-prone spaces, like bathrooms or trim work. However, it has a long drying time (8 to 24 hours per coat) and high VOC levels, so it’s best used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. Alkyd Paint Alkyd paint combines the strengths of acrylic and oil-based paints, offering a smooth, durable finish ideal for wood in high-traffic areas. It resists scratches, scuffs, and moisture, with strong adhesion to wood surfaces. While it has higher VOCs than acrylic (but lower than oil-based), proper ventilation is still necessary. Expect a longer drying time, typically 8 hours or more between coats. Stain for Wood Projects If you’re looking for a quick weekend project that will enhance your wood surface, then stain is the way to go. Advantages of Using Stain on Wood There are many advantages of using stain on your wood surface. Enhances Natural Grain: If you want to maintain the natural wood look but would like to enhance the richness of the color, then stain is the answer. Easy to Apply: Stain requires less surface prep, no primer (usually), and typically requires fewer coats. It also has a faster drying time than paint. Protects Wood: Stain offers protection without hiding the natural beauty of the wood by keeping out UV rays, moisture, and mildew, especially when sealed with a topcoat. Disadvantages of Stain on Wood While stain is easy to use on wood surfaces, it does come with a few drawbacks to consider. Limited Color Range: Stains are available in natural wood tones and muted shades, which may be a drawback if you prefer vibrant or modern color schemes for your wood project. Doesn’t Hide Flaws: Since stain soaks into the wood and enhances the grain, it will highlight flaws in the wood like knots, cracks, and patchy grainy patterns. Difficult to Change Later: Once you stain wood, it’s difficult to go back and paint or re-stain it in a different color, especially if the stain was dark or oil-based. Requires Frequent Maintenance: Lighter or transparent formulas may wear off faster than paint and require application every 2 to 3 years. Types of Stains to Use on Wood Choosing the type of stain to use on your wood project can significantly impact its performance over time. Water-Based Stain Water-based stains are easy to apply, dry quickly (in 1 to 2 hours), and clean up with just soap and water. They’re ideal for indoor or outdoor use, often containing UV and mildew protection for exterior projects. With low VOCs, they’re also eco-friendly and safe for interior applications. However, they don’t penetrate wood as deeply as oil-based stains, offering slightly less protection. They can also raise the grain in the wood, requiring light sanding after application. Oil-Based Stain Oil-based stain is a durable, time-tested choice for wood, especially outdoors. It penetrates deeply into the grain, offering long-lasting protection by repelling water and preventing swelling, warping, and rot. Known for rich, warm tones, it’s ideal for aging wood or restoration projects like decks, fences, and siding. However, it has a slow-drying time (12 to 48 hours) and high VOCs, so it’s best used outdoors with proper ventilation. Gel Stain Gel stain is a thick, non-drip formula that offers excellent control, especially on vertical or uneven wood surfaces. It’s ideal for woods like pine, birch, or cherry that absorb stain inconsistently. It delivers a smooth, uniform finish by sitting on the surface rather than soaking into the wood. Great for beginners, it’s easy to apply and is forgiving. However, it requires at least 24 hours to dry and must be sealed with a top coat. It also mutes the wood grain more than traditional stains. How to Choose Between Paint and Stain Both paint and stain are excellent choices for enhancing a wood project, but there are several factors to consider when choosing which one to use. Aesthetic Goals Paint and stain on wood look very different from each other. So, your desired aesthetic for your project can determine which you use. Paint provides an opaque layer that covers the natural grain of the wood. You also have many color options, ranging from neutral to bold and vibrant. Stain keeps the wood’s natural texture and grain, enhancing the color and richness of its appearance. This is ideal for those with a more rustic, polished, or antique aesthetic. Durability If you’re painting a high-traffic or high-touch item such as trim, doors, or cabinets, paint is likely more durable than stain. However, stain will not peel or crack like paint can over time or due to improper painting preparation. Overall, paint tends to last longer and withstand more traffic and elements than stain, but both are durable in their own ways. Maintenance How willing are you to maintain the finish of your wood surface? Stain may require touch-ups or re-staining every 2 to 3 years, depending on the environment. However, touch-ups for stains are considered easier than touch-ups for paint. Paint may require touch-ups every 5 years or so due to peeling or cracking. However, there are ways to prevent this from happening. Check out our blog post Causes of Peeling Paint and How to Fix Them for more information. Budget and Timeline Overall, paint tends to be more expensive and involve more labor and preparation than using stain. To stain, it usually takes 1 to 2 days, while painting can take 2 to 4 days for exterior jobs. So, if you’re looking for a cost-efficient and quick way to protect and elevate your wood, stain is the best option. Expert Recommendations for Common Wood Projects

As the weather starts to warm up and days grow longer, many Michigan residents spend more time outdoors, particularly on their decks. This outdoor space has the potential to become an oasis in your backyard - a serene spot to enjoy your morning coffee or chat with friends and family. But the first step to making a luxurious outdoor setting? Painting your wood deck. It seems like a daunting project, painting your wooden deck. This is especially true if it’s already been painted and you notice it’s starting to chip. But you can give your wood deck new life in just a weekend! If you decide to paint your wood deck, there is a proper process to follow to ensure a long-lasting paint job. It’s hard work, you want it to last as long as possible. That’s why we’re sharing a complete guide about how to paint a wood deck. Or you can get the professionals at VanDerKolk Painting to do it for you, so you can relax and actually enjoy your weekends. We’ll handle everything from prep to paint to clean up, leaving you with a beautifully painted deck. How to Paint a Wood Deck Painting a wood deck is more than just choosing a color and slapping a coat on your wooden boards. It requires preparation, selecting the right paint, and a strategic approach. Step 1: Remove Any Debris As an outdoor space, your deck can get quite dirty. Before you begin your painting project, it’s important to remove any debris, such as bird droppings, leaves, dirt, berries, and more. Step 2: Make Necessary Repairs If your deck is older, you may need to repair or replace rotting or cracked wood. This is also a great time to see if any boards need tightening to keep the integrity of your structure for years to come. Step 3: Sand the Wood Sanding down the wood allows you to remove any rough surfaces and edges that might cause splinters, but also prevents the paint from adhering properly. For newer decks that are in good shape, it’s a good idea to use sandpaper or a sanding block to smooth out edges and remove any old paint. For older decks, you could use a power sander to get a nice, smooth surface while eliminating splinters. Step 4: Wash the Deck Once all of the old paint is removed and the wood is sanded, it’s time to wash the deck and remove any mildew , stains, and dirt. You can do this either with a pressure washer set to a gentle setting or with a wire scrub brush with warm, soapy water. Now, it’s time to wait until the deck fully dries. This could take 24-48 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Step 5: Prepare the Deck to Paint Once the deck is completely dry, use painter’s tape to tape off areas where you do not wish to paint. Cover any plants or furniture in the area to avoid dripping or splashing paint. Step 6: Apply the Primer It’s always a good idea to apply one or two coats of primer to your wood deck, especially if it's new or bare wood, before painting. Primers help paint adhere to the surface better and last longer. Plus, the paint will be more evenly distributed and have a more opaque color. Wait until the primer is dry, usually around one to four hours. Step 7: Apply the Paint Using a paint roller, apply two or three coats of paint to your deck in large areas. For smaller, narrower areas, such as banisters and railings, apply paint with a paintbrush. It’s essential to wait until the previous coat of paint has dried according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying another coat. This will prevent the paint from bubbling, peeling , or looking uneven. Step 8: Allow Paint to Dry Completely Before you start moving any furniture or plants back onto your freshly painted deck, allow the paint to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. This will ensure your paint job stays pristine and that all of your hard work pays off for you to enjoy. What Kind of Paint to Use on a Wood Deck The secret to a long-lasting and beautiful painted wooden deck is choosing the right type of paint. Since it’s an outdoor space, you’ll want to choose a paint that can withstand the harsh Michigan weather and direct sunlight. When painting a wood deck, there are two types of paint we would recommend: Acrylic Paint - This water-based paint is excellent for holding its color during extreme weather and sunlight and is also resistant to cracking and peeling. Oil-Based Paint - This type of paint is known for being extremely durable, especially in harsh weather, and creates a strong barrier to prevent moisture from reaching the wood. While we have mentioned the dangers of VOC levels in oil-based paint , using it outside is less harmful than using it indoors. When Is the Best Time to Paint a Deck? The best time to paint your deck is in the late spring or early fall to ensure you have sunny, dry weather. Before you plan to paint, check the weather to ensure rain is not expected for at least 48 hours, allowing the paint to dry properly. The outside temperature should also be between 50°F and 90°F with low humidity. Now, in Michigan, it can be tricky to get a day when the humidity works in your favor. Check out our blog post for insider tips on how to paint in high humidity and make your paint last! Lastly, the best time of day to paint your deck is when the deck is in the shade. If you paint it in direct sunlight, it could cause the paint to dry too quickly. Depending on the position of your home, this could be in the early morning or late afternoon. What is the Best Color for a Deck? The key to choosing a color for your deck is to find one that complements the color of your house exterior . Some of the most popular deck colors include shades of brown, gray, beige, tan, and black (but be cautious if it receives direct sunlight), as well as natural wood colors. How Long Will a Painted Deck Last? It takes a lot of work to paint a wood deck, so you’re probably wondering how long your hard work will last. The answer is 3 to 5 years if you properly prepped the surface before painting. To get the most life out of your painted deck, it’s a good idea to keep it clean of debris often, giving it a good sweep to get rid of dirt. With each season, try to give your deck a good washing to remove any mildew that may start to grow. And lastly, check for chipping or peeling at least once a year. You can tell if your deck needs a fresh coat of paint if you notice chipping, cracking, or peeling. Is it Better to Paint or Stain Your Deck? There are two camps when it comes to the painting vs. staining of a wood deck. One school of thought is that paint actually protects the wood of your deck, helping it last longer . You also have a wider variety of colors to choose from, and it lasts longer. The second is that wooden decks should be stained to preserve the natural appearance of the wood. However, the stain only lasts 2-3 years, and you are limited to brown and neutral colors. In reality, the choice is entirely up to you! Both painting and staining your wood deck can enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase your property value over time, which is excellent news if you plan to sell. And don’t worry, VanDerKolk Painting can do both! Enhance Your Curb Appeal with VanDerKolk Painting Adding a coat of paint to your wood deck can make a world of difference when it comes to boosting curb appeal and giving your home’s exterior a desired aesthetic. But you don’t have to spend your weekends crouching down to sand your deck or climbing up on high ladders to paint the railings. That’s what VanDerKolk Painting is here for! Our team of painting professionals has been serving the Grand Rapids area for over 30 years, helping Michigan residents paint the exteriors of their homes. Whether you want to paint or stain your deck, we’re here to give you a pristine and long-lasting paint job that you’ll be proud of. So you can have your weekends back. Request your free estimate for your exterior painting project today!

Not all primers are the same. There are various types of primer to choose from, and selecting the right one can make or break your project.

Trying to decide between eggshell and satin paint for your next interior project? The right finish can make or break the look of a room.

It is possible to paint vinyl siding, and painting can be much more affordable than replacing siding.

Did you know the right exterior house color can increase your home’s value by 7% in Michigan? But it’s not just about looks; it’s about standing up to snowstorms, humidity, and the blazing summer sun. Michigan homeowners spend a lot of time designing and decorating the inside of their homes, but what about their home’s exterior? Your home’s exterior appearance is just as important as the interior. And just choosing the right color for your home’s exterior can completely elevate your home’s look. There are many factors to consider, including Michigan’s climate and environment, your home’s architectural style, and, of course, the most popular Michigan exterior house colors. Whether you’re looking to highlight the unique architectural details of your home or enhance its curb appeal, painting your Michigan home’s exterior is a game-changer. And there’s no better way to paint your home’s exterior than by working with the professionals at VanDerKolk Painting ! Our experienced painters work with precision and professionalism to ensure your home looks its best. Today, we’re diving into the most popular Michigan exterior house colors and sharing essential tips to help you choose the right one for your home. The Importance of Exterior House Color in Michigan Michigan is known for having some pretty harsh seasons, from bleak and snowy winters to hot and humid summers. And you want your home to look great no matter what the season! Choosing the right exterior house color based on your Michigan surroundings can help enhance curb appeal, keep your home cool during the summer, and help your home withstand extreme weather. Best Exterior Paint Colors for Michigan Homes We get it; you want your home to stand out and not look like every other house on your block. But following popular Michigan exterior house color trends will help your home’s style stand out while also complementing its beautiful surroundings. 

The excitement of moving into a newly built home with your most creative customizations is one of the best feelings in the world. But did you know that you can elevate that feeling even further? By painting your new home before move-in day, you can make your new construction house feel less “cookie cutter” and more like home from day one. And here’s the best-kept secret—painting your newly constructed home before everything is finished is a game-changer! You get to walk into your home with walls already painted, setting the stage for you to decorate and really make it feel like yours. VanDerKolk Painting has been helping Michigan residents elevate their new construction homes for more than three decades! We’ll work with your contractors to get in, paint the entire house, and get out in time for them to stay on track with their deadlines. The Process of Painting New Homes When painting new homes, the process looks different than if you were to repaint a room. Let’s dive into the process of painting new homes and some expert tips to ensure the perfect paint job every time. Step 1: Evaluate Surfaces When painting a new home’s interior, there will be a few different surfaces to paint—and this will determine what type of paint you will use. The most common surfaces in new construction include: Sheetrock - Also known as drywall , you’ll want to use 100% latex or acrylic latex paint when painting these walls. Plaster - While it isn’t as common in new construction, you may still find plaster walls requiring emulsion paint. Wood - Use water-based acrylic paint for interior doors, trim, and baseboards. Choosing the right type of paint for your surfaces will ensure optimal coverage and long-lasting durability. Step 2: Prepare the Surface Painting a newly constructed home while it is still in the construction process means walking into a lot of dust on unfinished surfaces. Before you can start painting, it’s essential to clean and prepare your surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion. Clean up any dust or dirt that may be on the walls or surfaces you plan to paint. If there are any nicks or cracks (there shouldn’t be!, you’ll want to repair them. Since the material is so new, it could still have a fairly rough surface, especially wood and drywall. This will require some light sanding to make the surface as smooth and even as possible. Step 3: Tape Off Windows and Remove Covers Grab some masking tape and start taping off the windows and trim (if it has already been installed). This will protect these surfaces from accidental paint streaks or splashes. It’s also a good idea to remove any outlet or light switch covers to avoid getting paint on them, too. Step 4: Prime the Walls Typically, primer is used to conceal the color of any previous paint. So, you might be tempted to skip this step since you’re working with fresh drywall—but we do not recommend it! Primer does so much more than cover up an underlying color. It helps your paint adhere to the surface and prevents it from peeling , cracking, or flaking over time. For long-lasting paint, primer is essential! Step 5: Apply Paint Once your primer has finished drying, you can apply your first coat of paint . It’s best to use a foam roller to paint large sections of the walls and a brush to get into the small corners for ultimate precision. Remember to read your paint label to see how long you have to wait before applying your second coat . This is important! Pro Tip: When painting new construction, we recommend painting the ceiling first to avoid paint splatter on the walls. Step 6: Paint Interior Doors Once your walls are painted, you can move on to the doors. You could also paint the doors before painting the walls—the decision is yours! You can either remove the doors from their hinges entirely or just the handles and locks. Sand the surface to ensure it is smooth and even before cleaning away any dust or dirt. Once clean and dry, apply a coat of primer. After the primer has dried, apply two coats of water-based acrylic paint and wait until it dries completely before adding the hardware back on the door. Step 7: Touch Up Before you wrap up your paint brushes, inspect your work and identify any places that might require some touching up. A new construction home deserves only the best paint job! When Should You Paint Trim and Baseboards? There are two schools of thought when it comes to when you should paint trim and baseboards in new construction homes. The first believes that you should prime and paint your baseboards and trim before installing them. However, this can lead to damage to the paint. The second believes in priming the trim and baseboards before installing them and then painting after installation. This ensures the paint is not damaged and you can cover any nails or screws showing through. Do You Have to Paint New Construction Homes? Painting a new construction home isn’t always a given. Some homeowners might decide to wait until they have moved in before painting. But one interior decorator warns against this . The builder-grade paint contractors use is not the high-quality paint you need to elevate your home. It’s best to get painting your new home out of the way while the construction process is still taking place. This means no moving furniture around and a minimized risk of ruining floors, windows, or fixtures from splashed paint. When Should You Paint New Construction Homes? The best time to paint new construction homes is after the drywall is installed but before the flooring and other fixtures are put in. This allows you to paint freely without worrying about ruining the new floor or painting around oddly shaped fixtures on the walls or ceilings. Ultimately, if you can paint your new home before moving in, it’s the best decision you can make! Can You Skip Priming New Construction Walls? Unless you have plaster walls, which isn’t commonly used in modern construction projects, you should definitely prime the walls before painting. This ensures the paint bonds to the surface well and enhances durability. Should You Hire Professional Painters for New Construction Painting? Yes, you should definitely hire professional painters (like VanDerKolk Painting !) to paint your newly constructed home. Having a team of professional painters ensures precision and long-lasting paint thanks to their years of expertise and paint knowledge. Plus, with multiple painters working at once, your new home will be painted in no time, meaning your contractors can meet their deadlines and the sooner you can move in! Painting newly constructed homes is much different than painting a home that has been lived in for years. There are more steps and considerations to take into account to ensure the job is done correctly. Make Your New Construction House Feel Like Home from Day One with VanDerKolk Painting Are you ready to walk into your newly built house and have it feel like home from day one? VanDerKolk Painting is here to make your interior design visions come to life! Our team of painting professionals will paint the entirety of your new home—inside and out—to ensure you can start decorating and unpacking instantly. We’ll work with your construction team to get the job done fast and on time with your deadlines. Request a FREE estimate for your new home construction painting project to get started today!

We’ve all been there—standing in front of the wall of paint color samples at your local paint or hardware store. Comparing colors to each other and trying to picture it in your home. But what if we told you there was another decision to be made when picking out your paint? One of the most important decisions to make—besides the color—is the type of paint finish. The most common types of paint finishes are satin, matte, and gloss. Each finish offers a different effect on your interior design, elevating the feel of your space when chosen right. At VanDerKolk Painting , we pride ourselves in helping homeowners choose the right paint finish for their home’s interior based on the project, paint color, and the finish’s durability to ensure a long-lasting and beautiful paint job. That’s exactly why we are breaking down the differences in satin vs. matte vs. gloss paint in this comprehensive paint finishing guide. The Importance of Paint Finishes Choosing a paint color for your room may be the first and most important decision in the painting process, but choosing the right paint finish is a close second. The finish affects how the paint reflects light. Some finishes, like a high gloss finish, are the most reflective, giving off a shiny effect. Other finishes, like matte, are not reflective at all. But appearance isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a paint finish. The type of finish also determines the paint’s durability. Some finishes are more durable than others, meaning some are better in high-traffic areas than others. (Don’t worry, we’ll dive into where to use each paint finish in your home.) Satin vs. Matte vs. Gloss Paint Finish The three most common types of paint finish are satin, matte, and gloss. We’re diving into each of their appearances, pros and cons, where to use them, and which colors look best. Satin Paint Finish The satin paint finish offers a silky and velvet-like look on the walls. It is slightly reflective, often referred to as a happy medium between matte and gloss. The most identifying properties of satin paint finish include: A slightly reflective finish makes rooms appear larger Hides imperfections on walls easily Easy to clean Durable in high-traffic areas Easy to apply to walls Moisture-resistant to avoid peeling and cracking Since the satin paint finish is highly durable and great for relaxing spaces, we recommend using it in bedrooms , offices, and living areas. But its moisture-resistant qualities also make it an excellent option for kitchens and bathrooms . When choosing a satin paint finish, it looks best in earthy tone colors like muted green, brown, beige, pale blue, and gray. Matte Paint Finish Matte paint finish is also sometimes referred to as flat paint. With a matte finish, the paint does not reflect light but instead absorbs it, giving a smooth and soft look to the walls. Rooms that provide a more elegant aesthetic can greatly benefit from matte paint finishes. When you choose a matte paint finish, you can expect the following: Smooth and flat look Conceals imperfections very well Provides a uniform finish Difficult to clean Not very durable Since matte paint finishes are not very durable, they work best in low-traffic areas, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms to ensure it lasts as long as possible. For this reason, it’s also a great paint to use on ceilings . When choosing matte paint, it tends to look best in soothing hues that are warm and muted, such as cream, beige, blue, and green. Gloss Paint Finish Gloss paint finish is the most reflective of the three finishes we’re comparing. However, you can choose a high gloss or semi-gloss finish, depending on how sheen you would like the wall to be. This gloss finish is perfect in smaller rooms that you would like to make them feel slightly bigger while also making a bold statement. Some of the qualities you’ll notice when using gloss paint finish include: Extremely reflective to brighten a room Smoothing texture and shine Resistant to stains and easy to clean Very durable for high-traffic areas Shows wall imperfections Since gloss paint is highly durable, it is best used in high-traffic areas of the home, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. It can also be used on woodwork such as doors and trim. If you’re thinking of adding an accent wall , gloss paint is a great choice to really make it stand out. Some colors that look best in a gloss finish are bright, bold hues like red, blue, pink, orange, and yellow. It also looks great in black and white if you’re using it for woodwork and details around the house. How to Choosing the Right Paint Finish Can Transform Your Interior When it comes to elevating your current interior design, choosing the right paint finish for your project can completely transform the outcome . When deciding which paint finish is right for your project, consider which room you’re painting and how often it’s used. Is there consistent humidity in the room, such as cooking or showering? This will help you decide the durability level of the finish. Next, it’s time to consider the ambiance of the room. Is your goal to create an elegant and calming space for relaxation or focus? Or are you looking to make a bold statement and add some fun energy to the room? Lastly, what colors are you thinking of painting the walls? This is going to also help in deciding which finish to choose because it can affect the color’s appearance. Not sure which paint finish is right for your project type? VanDerKolk Painting is here to help! Elevate Your Home’s Interior Design with VanDerKolk Painting Choosing the right type of paint for your interior home project can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially with so many different opinions out there. When you work with experienced painting professionals at VanDerKolk Painting , we will guide you through which type of paint and finish is best for the project and your interior design vision. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of the paint type and choose one that will last the longest. But that’s not all! Our trained painters will prep and prime your walls before adding a precise and perfect coat of no- or low-VOC paint, instantly transforming your space and bringing your vision to life. Request a free estimate for your interior home painting project, or call 616-202-6570 today!

When designing your space, whether it’s finishing a basement in your home or transforming a retail warehouse, concrete walls can detract from your vision. As you stare at the CMU (concrete masonry unit) walls and complain about what an eyesore they are, you can’t help but wonder if it’s possible to paint them. We have some good news; you can absolutely paint CMU walls. Painting CMU walls opens plenty of opportunities to vastly improve the appearance of your commercial, industrial, or residential space. But before you grab a bucket of paint and a brush, there are some CMU paint considerations to be aware of to ensure your hard work lasts for years. If your property is located in West Michigan, you can always call the painting professionals at VanDerKolk Painting for high-quality and precise paint jobs, even for CMU walls! We’ve served West Michigan residents for over 30 years, helping them transform their homes and industrial and commercial spaces. Can You Paint Masonry Blocks? CMU walls are often made of concrete cinder or masonry blocks. If you’re dealing with masonry blocks making up your CMU wall, it is still possible to paint them. But there are some extra steps you’ll have to take. One of the most important steps is to seal the surface with a masonry bonding primer . You’ll want to do this before even putting your brush or roller to the CMU wall. Adding a bonding primer ensures the paint adheres to the surface while filling in holes that could prevent the paint from looking smooth. Is Painting Cinderblocks a Good Idea? When working in an industrial space or finishing a basement, while it is possible to paint CMU walls, you may be wondering if it’s a good idea. From a professional point of view, we recommend painting CMU walls! Not only can you elevate your space’s appearance, but a coat of paint can actually protect your CMU walls. Some of the benefits to painting CMU walls include: Walls are easier to clean Elevates appearance Becomes moisture resistant Reduces dust in the space Increases durability If you’ve been considering painting your cinderblock wall, this is your sign to do it! CMU Paint Considerations Before You Start Painting CMU walls is not like painting regular drywall. The material is completely different, which means there are some extra steps to take and special products you must use to ensure a quality and durable paint job. Before you head out to your local paint store, here are some things you should know. Sealing Concrete Blocks Before Painting is Crucial CMU walls are extremely porous and permeable. This means that if you were to slap a coat of paint on the walls without any preparation or sealing, the paint will seep into the wall, causing an uneven layer. So, before you can add your paint, you will have to seal the wall with masonry bonding primer. This sealant will fill in those pores and provide a more level surface where paint can be applied evenly. Pro tip: You’ll need about 2-3 coats of sealing primer for the best effect. Use the Right Paint for CMU Walls If you’ve ever gone to the paint section of your hardware store, you probably noticed how many different types of paint there are out there. Each one has its own purpose and qualities. When painting CMU walls, using the right type of paint is essential. Luckily, you can choose from three types of paint for CMU walls. Masonry Paint - this type of paint is formulated specifically for porous and permeable walls so that they can breathe and resist moisture. It’s ideal for exterior CMU walls . Elastomeric Paint - this type of paint is super durable, flexible, peel- and water-resistant. It’s ideal for high-moisture environments such as basements. Acrylic Latex Paint - this paint is perfect for interior CMU walls and provides a smooth, polished finish. Consider where your CMU wall is located (inside or outside) when deciding which type of paint to use as the environment could affect the paint’s durability. How to Easily Paint CMU Walls With a simple four-step process, you can adequately paint your CMU walls for a lasting effect. Step 1: Prepare the Surface The first step, and probably the most important, is preparing the surface of your CMU wall. If the wall was previously painted, you must strip the paint away. Once cleared away, it’s time to clean the wall. Use TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a mild detergent and scrub away dirt and grime with a wire brush. Let the wall dry completely. The last step is to identify any cracks or holes and repair them. This is to create a smooth surface for an even layer of paint. Step 2: Apply Primer To seal the CMU wall and ensure moisture doesn’t build up in the wall’s pores, you must apply a masonry bonding and filling primer. Adding a primer will also help your paint adhere better and last longer. It will also prevent cracking and peeling in the paint, creating a more durable finish. Step 3: Paint the Call Once your primer has dried, it’s time to paint the CMU wall. We recommend using a paint roller with a ½ to ¾-inch nap for the best results. To ensure your color is vibrant and durable, we recommend applying at least two coats of paint. Before adding the second coat, make sure the paint has fully dried. Depending on the type of CMU paint you’re using, you may have to wait overnight for the first coat to dry. Step 4: Add a Topcoat Sealer (Only for Interior Walls) If you’re painting an interior CMU wall, then you will want to add a topcoat sealer to provide a super durable finish. Plus, it adds a high-sheen finish to the wall to further elevate your space’s appearance and aesthetic. Can You Paint Straight onto Masonry? It is not recommended to put straight paint onto masonry blocks or CMU walls. Since the material is extremely porous, the paint will look uneven and will not adhere to the surface properly. When you follow the CMU painting process properly, your hard work will endure weather, humidity, and time. Taking a few extra steps can go a long way! When Should You Hire a Professional to Paint CMU Walls? While it is possible to paint CMU walls yourself, it is often more difficult than you may think. Not only can choosing the right paint and bonding primer cause you to feel overwhelmed (choosing the wrong product could result in disaster!) but the act of painting the wall is tedious and time-consuming. To ensure your CMU wall is painted precisely, using the right products and techniques, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional painter. Not only do you have peace of mind, but you get your weekend to sit back and relax. VanDerKolk Painting is Here for All of Your Painting Needs Whether you need to paint a concrete wall in your home , warehouse , or commercial building , VanDerKolk Painting is here to help with all of your painting needs! Our team of experienced painting professionals offers white glove service, guaranteeing precision and the utmost professionalism. We’ve served residents in the Greater Grand Rapids area for more than three decades to enhance aesthetics and offer protective coatings to their buildings. Contact us for a FREE estimate on your next painting project today!