Posted by Frenchic Admin
How many coats of paint do I need?
Many factors affect coverage and how far the paint goes in a project, often in combination.
The manufacturer has tested the paints on a smooth, non-absorbent, neutral-colored surface. All Frenchic paints require at least two coats.
When you follow the instructions and apply at least two coats, the color will look as the manufacturer intended. A second coat also smooths out minor surface imperfections, leaving a smooth, beautiful finish.
If the surface material in your project differs from this smooth, neutral-colored, non-absorbent surface, test it first to see how well it gets covered.
There are as many projects as there are painters, so here are some tips for estimating how much paint your project will need.
Paint consumption increases on surfaces such as:
Patterned and other uneven surfaces, such as
- fiberglass wallpaper
- embossed wallpaper
- woven surfaces, such as rattan
- grooved surfaces, such as panels
- OSB board
Clean, porous surfaces can sometimes absorb a surprising amount of paint
These surfaces include:
- bare MDF board and chipboard
- rough-sawn board
- clean, sanded wood surface
Frenchic paint goes a long way
Frenchic paint’s coverage is one of our most celebrated features.
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Recommended number of coats
At least two. Most painting projects need at least two full coats of Frenchic paint for a durable, beautiful finish. However, the number of coats required may vary depending on the surface material and other factors. Let the first coat dry completely before applying the next.
2. Porous and textured surfaces
Porous materials, such as bare MDF board, can absorb moisture from the paint and cause an uneven finish. For this reason, it’s recommended to prime with a thin, diluted coat of paint, also known as a "mist coat", before applying the full coats. You can also seal a porous surface with Finishing Coat. Similarly, other textured surfaces such as panels, fiberglass wallpaper or grooved trim, as well as clean wood surfaces or rough-sawn boards, naturally use more paint than usual.
The same applies to painting new plaster. Always apply a thinned primer coat to plaster before applying two full coats of paint to achieve an even, beautiful finish.
3. Color coverage
Paint colors can vary in coverage. For example, gray shades often cover well in two coats, while reds and bright shades may require more coats. The color of the surface you’re painting also affects the result. Light shades may need more coats to cover a dark surface, while dark shades may need extra coats to fully cover a light surface. Coverage is also affected by your choice of tools, application method, and how thoroughly you mix the paint.
4. Apply coats of the right thickness
Remember to check the paint tin’s recommendations for coverage and application amount. Applying coats that are too thin can reduce the durability and coverage of the paint finish. More than two thin coats are usually needed to achieve even coverage. If you’re painting an area that should use a certain amount of paint according to the tin, but you have a lot left over, the coats are probably too thin. Choose tools that are clean and in good condition, such as rollers and brushes, to ensure even application. For example, a thick-pile roller always uses more paint than a brush. Spray painting also uses more paint than usual and often requires more than two coats.
5. Mix the paint thoroughly before starting
The importance of mixing the paint thoroughly cannot be overstated. Mix the paint carefully, making sure to stir up the color pigment from the bottom. Follow the drying time between coats, and assess the color only after two coats have dried. Make sure you have enough paint to complete the project, especially for larger projects. If the surface you’re painting is unusual, test the paint first.
6. Choose the right paint range for your project
Use this guide to choose the right paint for your project. In short: all Frenchic ranges are suitable for indoor projects, while only Al Fresco range paints are suitable for painting outdoor furniture.
With these tips and the right amount of paint, you’ll achieve a beautiful, durable finish on every painting project!
