PAINTS, UNDERCOATS & DECORATIVE PRODUCTS

When the paint is kept tightly sealed in the original factory container, it usually lasts for up to 18 months from its date of production. It is important to store the paint in spaces that do not come in direct contact with sunlight or they are not exposed to any heat sources. The ideal storage conditions are between 5^oC και 35^oC

Nowadays, the removal of mold and algae can be achieved easily by using special purpose products, such as the mold and mildew remover of DUROSTICK, D-95. Simply use it by following its direction of use, as described on the container. Alternatively, remove mold and algae by first cleaning the affected areas using a wire brush. CAUTION: Make sure to use the wire brush without damaging the original surface. Remove all the dust by taking all necessary precautions against air contamination or inhalation according to your local and national building codes. Continue by cleaning the surface using a bleach/water solution. Use a dilution rate of 1 part bleach to 20 parts water and clean using a sponge or soft brush. Allow for the solution to act for five to ten minutes and rinse thoroughly with a sponge, using clean water. If the moisture cannot be permanently removed from the affected area, it is possible for mold to reappear. To contain or totally eliminate mold or algae formations, it might be necessary to paint the area using a paint that protects the wall surface(s) from mold & mildew. In addition, frequent venting of the space is a proven and useful action.

The cost of painting is determined by the sum of several factors, among which are included, but not limited to, the cost of paint (whether painting for the first time or repainting), labor costs if not doing it ourselves, whether or not there is a need for scaffolding etc. In any case, it is always advisable to get at least two, if not three different quotes and compare before making any decisions.

Darker colors tend to be more expensive due to the addition of the coloring pigments (usually organic pigments) into the paint base in order to create the desired color. The rule of thumb says that in order to create a darker color, the addition of a larger amount of pigments is required.

There are several reasons that could lead to brush marks on the painted surface(s). The inappropriate, not recommended dilution of the paint (paint that is too thin, too thick or diluted with incorrect medium), the use of a weathered and/or damaged painting brush as well as the incorrect application method are the most common reasons for the creation of brush marks on painted surfaces. The experience of the painter usually is enough to minimize, if not eliminate the reasons above. Alternatively, follow the dilution instructions of the paint manufacturer, use a paint brush that is in good condition and try to familiarize yourself with the use of the paint brush to avoid the occurrence of brush marks.

Yes, by using water based products (paints, primers). When using an ecological paint, such as DUROSTICK SUPER ECO By also keeping doors and windows open during and after the painting, until the paint is sufficiently dry (when painting indoors). When using solvent based and/or alkyd paints, the smell is very likely to remain for a few days (when painting indoors). 

No, mold grows on dark and wet corners and generally wherever there is limited air circulation. Paints that are highly resistant to mold are available in the market, however under certain conditions, such as described above, mold will eventually reappear. Preventive action/cleaning – maintenance at regular intervals is, usually, the best solution to minimize the frequency of the problem.

It is a known fact that cleaning and caring for painted surfaces, besides the benefits of increased hygiene, increases the longevity of the paint and prevents the necessity for frequent repainting of spaces. Always make sure that you clean painted surfaces using mild cleaners. Alternatively, use special purpose cleaners, such as DUROSTICK BIOCLEAN for nicotine & soot.

There are several available products in the market for cleaning and removing mold. DUROSTICK D-95 is such a product and it is highly effective. One can also use a bleach/water solution (dilution rate 1 part bleach to 3 parts water). Apply the solution using a brush or a spray bottle. Tougher stains might require some scrubbing and additional cleaning. 

That substance is a fluffy concentration of salt crystals that are forming due to the presence of moisture and salts within the mineral surface, whether it is plaster, concrete or else. The presence and further development of the crystals will continue to surface, as long as the reasons for their creation continue to exist. The salts have to be removed from the surfaces using mechanical means (you may also use a pressure washer, but always follow instructions to prevent any damage to the surface), and, if possible, the cause(s) have to be eliminated before considering repainting the surfaces. Repair and seal all points on the wall surfaces that moisture penetration is evident. Allow for the surfaces to dry completely. Prime the surface using the appropriate product and once dry, paint the entire surface.

It is very important to know that at least 20 days have to pass after the completion of the painting process before we can clean the surface. This time frame will safeguard the longevity of the paint, and the effectiveness of the cleaning procedures, without damaging the newly painted surface(s). In any case, when selecting paints, choose a manufacturer that produces paints with exceptional washability, such as the DUROSTICK paints, to further safeguard surfaces from wear and tear or damage. Always use mild cleaners that are lightly or heavily diluted (with water most of the time), depending on the dirt and stain toughness. Clean using a sponge or a cotton cloth. Do not allow for the cleaning solution to dry on the wall surfaces. Rinse thoroughly with a sponge and clean cool water. Be advised, if using special cleaners always read the product instructions before any application.

Most paints available in the market are ready for use but can be diluted 5% to 10%. The dilution ratio, as well as the dilution medium, will both be clearly marked on the container(s) of the paint(s). Please note that not following the proper dilution instructions might affect both the quality, the coverage and the overall performance of the paint.

There are more than one solutions available to you. Covering imperfections but also making the surface flat, if there is such a need, can be accomplished by skim coating the surface with spackling pastes. Spackling pastes vary, depending on their per-coat thickness, e.g. STUCCOFIX-P (1-1.5mm/coat), POWDER COAT (4mm/coat), and Granular (20mm/coat). It is also possible to ‘hide’ surface imperfections (defects) if the paint is applied with a styling sponge (creating a surface texture), or if using a textured, specialty paint

Before Taking any action, it is necessary to ensure that there is no moisture trapped within the concrete slab. Once you establish that there is no moisture into the slab, continue with the painting of the concrete garage floor. It is highly advisable to use an epoxy based paint, DUROEPOXY or DUROEPOXY FLOOR SF (solvent free), but only after coating the concrete surface with the corresponding DUROSTICK epoxy based primer. Epoxy paints create non absorbent surfaces with increased hardness that are highly durable against abrasions and powerful acids and alkali. If the garage floor was previously coated with a product other than an epoxy based one, it is very important to ensure its stability and, if necessary, to remove the existing coating.

Painting a surface can do much more than beautify it (especially true when talking about outdoor surface paints). It can protect surfaces from moisture and water penetration (seals and waterproofs), it can cover hairline cracks and small defects on plaster surfaces, and it can also insulate surfaces to a certain extent, by vesting surfaces with reflective abilities, when applied in white or light colors. Choosing the appropriate (for each specific situation) paint, is a conditional for one or all of the above properties to become true, always depending on the paint purchased. Examples of such paints are the elastomeric paints D-80 Hydrostop Elastic and THERMOELASTIC COLOUR, the energy efficient ‘cool’ paint of DUROSTICK that paints, waterproofs and insulates wall surfaces.

It is true that mud rain is one difficult problem to deal with and it might be even harder to resolve it. DUROSTICK created an innovative, high quality paint of nanomolar technology, named WALL PRO NANO PAINT. This particular paint creates a film that does not allow for the majority of airborne dust or mud to adhere to it and does not allow any absorptions through the pores of the painted surface(s). Its composition also makes it possible to rinse the soiled surface with clean water or even with the unpolluted rain water (dust and mud free). Available in hundreds of colors through both DUROCOLOR & COLOR COLLECTION systems of DUROSTICK.  

We are aware of this problem. It’s true that it happens in many areas and often too. Although we can not reduce the frequency of those incidents, we can, however, make sure that cleaning graffiti from surfaces is as easy and quick as possible. For this very reason, we created the brand-new, silane modified polyurethane paint of exceptional quality and of advanced technology, DUROSTICK ANTIGRAFFITI. It creates a flexible, resilient sealing and waterproofing nonstick surface, resistant to any type of graffiti, spray paint or permanent markers etc. In the unlikely event that some color residues remain on the surface, easily remove them by using the specific purpose and very powerful paint cleaner DUROSTICK D-19 GRAFFITI REMOVER, and thoroughly rinse the cleaned surface with water under pressure or even a sponge.

The more common practice is to first prime and paint the ceiling and then prime the walls. Continue, if desired, by decorating and styling parts, elements, or even entire wall surfaces. Seal around frames and moldings, or wherever sealing is required, especially on the intersecting points of building materials,  and then paint the wall surface(s). Follow the same procedures, even when you are just repainting a room.

In principle, a good quality painting brush will yield better results on a finished surface. Eventually, though, it will show signs of wear, especially when used on rough surfaces or used roughly in general. However, the ability of a good painting brush to yield  excellent results (when used properly), makes it worth the money. To answer your question, there is no set time limit for the duration or use of a painting brush. You have to judge on your own when the paint brush needs to be replaces based on its performance and the way it looks. You can increase its longevity though by simply cleaning it after each and every use according to the manufacturer’s instructions promptly and thoroughly and also by tightly wrapping it after the brush is clean and is still wet. This trick will maintain the shape of the bristles and of the brush and not allow it to fan out while drying ( a common occurrence).

Truth be told, the paint manufacturers are trying really hard towards that goal. The fact, though, is that the products themselves (paint bases) but also the tinting machines (color making machines) usually yield colors with slight variations in terms of the original color(s). So, If during the painting process you realize that the remaining paint will not be enough for the completion of the surface painting, then it is advisable to stop at a natural cut (e.g. an inner or outer wall corner, around a door or a window etc.) and continue with the supplementary paint from that cut point on.

Of course, there is. The specific purpose paint KITCHEN & BATH of DUROSTICK is a specially manufactured paint. It creates a surface that is resistant to mold and mildew that grows in wet environments such as bathrooms and kitchens, due to water vapour built up during the cooking or the showering process. Clean the surface(s) thoroughly to completely remove mold, mildew, and stains that may already exist and apply the paint worry-free, on ceilings, walls and other surfaces found in wet locations. 

The nursery, the children rooms, rooms that we deal with great sensitivity, require our careful selection when it comes to paint(s) and color(s). In order to protect the health of children, our choice of paint usually revolves around branded ecological painting products that are certified by official Greek and/or European authorities. Such painting products as SUPER ECO paint of DUROSTICK, that carries certification from the Supreme Council of Ecological Sign Conferment (YPEKA-Greek National Organization) and the organization for awarding the ecological sign within the european union, E.U. ECOLABEL EL/07/023.

First of all, one can say that this choice is purely a matter of aesthetics. Transparent and semi-transparent varnishes, after their application, leave the wood grain visible (fully or partially) and highlight it. Paint on the other hand completely covers the wood grain. The coverage of the surface (wood grain) may be considered appropriate when the wood surface has various blemishes or damage that we want to cover. Paint application is also appropriate after spackling parts or the entire wood surface.

The styling products of DUROSTICK (in paste, putty or powder form), are applied on a multitude of mineral surfaces. Surfaces made of plaster, finish concrete, drywall, cement board, aircrete etc. Styling products can be applied even on wood and metal surfaces, as long as the substrate is properly prepared and ensures safe adhesion of the paste, putty or powder on it.

Usually, styles are created in indoor spaces as well as on objects (walls, columns, fireplaces, sofas, furniture, etc). Creating styles outdoors is not a common practice. However, it is achievable but under specific guidelines and certain conditions, mainly that the application surface(s) must be covered, and avoid direct contact with strong sunlight or rainwater.

Knowledge, experience, skill and daring imagination. All these are exactly what one needs to create and reach amazing results. Each result is absolutely unique, as is the level of experience or skill one posseces. Experienced craftsmen definitely have an advantage when it comes to specific style creations, but that does not exclude an amateur from creating a wonderful effect as well. In any case, judging a styling creation is, and will always remain a subjective matter. So go ahead and dare. Do not hesitate. You will not simply create a style. You will create your own personal, unique style.

Everything can be altered. It is a lot easier, however, to change things while the application is still fresh, and the styling surface can easily accept your modifying interventions. Corrections can be made to dry surfaces as well. Even after completing the styling application, one can still change everything by adding or removing, with small brushstrokes and minor touches, even redo the entire surface until you reach the aesthetically acceptable and satisfactory outcome desired.  

Usually, one uses the styling paste (or putty) of choice and the pigments that create the desired aesthetic results. Also, one should use a product(s) to protect the style (varnish, wax etc), and stabilize the newly crafted surface. The use of a protective product also prevents the penetration of all kinds of stains and helps the longevity of the surface that was styled.

Providing that one strictly follows the instructions for use (regarding the proper application of the materials), as well as abiding by the suggestion for the appropriate surface protection during the final step of the styling application, then yes, the durability of the style application is impressively long. Of course, it is also absolutely necessary to properly prepare all substrates before any style applications on them. 

Undeniably, colors are decorative elements for a space, however, they can also be neutral backgrounds. Apply one or more colors, in composition, in contrast, but also, apply them combined with styling elements as means of highlighting objects or sections of the space, giving that space unique aesthetics, look and identity. It is highly advisable to first get some basic knowledge of the color circle, color combinations as well as color contrasts. One can find relevant information on the subject, in the «THE COLOR OF EMOTIONS» brochure, or in its digital form that is readily available in the DUROSTICK site. 

DUROSTICK styling products are inexpensive, easy to use and very effective. However, what makes a styling decoration unique, amazing and of high aesthetic value is the styling (the application) itself. The way that all the applied materials connect, more, less or not at all, with your aesthetic chord. Please keep in mind, the quality of the materials is not always directly linked to the price. Furthermore, the quality of the materials is necessary, but not by itself an absolute condition that will ensure the outcome of the application. An incredible outcome, not only requires craftsmanship but also aesthetic and artistic 'feel', a certain 'touch' the person styling the surface(s) or elements might possess. It certainly requires using imagination and dare.

DUROSTICK is always by your side, from the initial stages of finding the appropriate styling solution for your project, the selection, and purchase of the appropriate, per the individual project, products, but also in the implementation steps of your project(s). We are with you, together with our Technical Support Team via phone, e-mail, special applications, mobile app support etc. We are also with you with a multitude of printed and digital informational and educational materials for the use of our styling, or else, products. All of our instructional materials are available at points of sale of the products, on the Internet at the company sites, even through the regular mail.

The skimming/smoothing of any surface is done primarily for its beautification (it creates exceptionally smooth surface). It is done for the purpose of changing/improving the finish surface, which is usually followed by painting. Another reason for skim coating surfaces may relate to wallpaper, as well as other types of lining installations. Most of the times skim coating relates to indoor spaces but there are certain projects that may require skimming for outdoor surfaces as well.

First of all, you need to know whether the substrate is compatible with the skim coat paste to be used on it or not. If it is not, examine if there is any way to make it compatible (e.g. priming of the substrate with a specific primer that is suited to each individual case). Consider the condition of the substrate, and then take all necessary steps to prepare it so as it can safely accept the skimming paste. If the substrate is not flat nor even, it should be flattened by using different pastes, based on the different per coat thickness needed (GRANULAR (20mm/coat), GRANULAR ULTRA (15mm/coat), POWDER COAT (4mm/coat)). If the substrate is not stable and clean, make it so by cleaning and removing all loose sections, debris and dust. Continue by priming the substrate using the micromolar stabilizer (primer) DUROSTICK AQUAFIX. If the substrate has any defects, dents, surface cracks, etc., repair and smooth it out using the spackling pastes mentioned above. Now that the substrate is properly prepared, apply the ultrafine skim coat paste STUCOFIX-P (in powder form) or alternatively use STUCOFIX (in putty form) if you want a very smooth finish surface.

The grain size within the composition of spackling pastes is suitable for achieving  thicker, per coat, applications (GRANULAR 20mm per coat, GRANULAR ULTRA 15mm per coat). Most of the times, and always depending on the product itself, spackling pastes are used to fill and even out larger manufacturing defects, pouring flaws and damage. Their obvious advantages are that they can fill those defects quicker since they can be applied in thicker coats safely, without bursting or cracking and that they are suitable for outdoor applications. Skimming pastes are designed for creating a perfectly smooth surface that is ready for paint, wallpaper, and most other linings. The application thickness of skimming pastes is usually small (STUCOFIX-P 1mm per coat, POWDER COAT 4mm per coat), but exceptionally smooth, when applied correctly. Some skimming pastes can be applied outdoors, however, it is always a good practice to look for that information on the packaging before applying outdoors.

When using pastes in powder form (STUCOFIX-P, POWDER COAT, GRANULAR, GRANULAR ULTRA), you can skim coat wall and ceiling surfaces made of marble based plaster, drywall and cement board, concrete and aircrete etc. Additionally, when using putties (STUCOFIX), you may also skim coat wood surfaces, frames and casings, doors, windows and even boats. For cement boards, in particular, and available for you, DUROSTICK manufactures the special purpose paste in powder form, D-77, the resinous cement paste for cement boards.

Usually it is (living and dining rooms mostly). However, skimming outdoor surfaces is not a rarity. That is especially true when the skim coating of the surfaces requires greater application thicknesses, where skim coat pastes such as GRANULAR and GRANULAR ULTRA (with per coat thickness of 20mm and 15mm respectively), can successfully replace the traditional plastering of surfaces. It is good to know that cementitious based skimming pastes work exceptionally well, in environments both indoors and out.

The appropriate skim coat thickness is determined always in conjunction with the substrate and its physical condition, as well as the texture required as a final surface, after the application. Keep in mind, though, the texture requiredcan be achieved in one or more coats of spackling, also depending on the chosen spackling product and its per coat maximum thickness. The thickness of skim coating is usually up to 1mm thick per coat. Greater thicknesses than that are usually referred to as spackling or filling coats. The grain size of a paste is what makes it suitable for skim coating, the smaller the grain size, the smoother the finished surface.

Surely you can color skimming pastes. Do it by adding the pigments in powder form, DUROCOLOR POWDER C of DUROSTICK, in 96 color chart colors. Coloring the skimming paste gives you two advantages. When you decide to color the paste similarly to the finishing paint color, you effectively reduce the painting coats required to achieve proper paint coverage and additionally, if and when there is some damage to the painted surface, the damage will be barely or not at all visible. Also, it is much easier to detect flaws and defects on skimmed surfaces that colored skimming pastes were used because early flaw detection allows for immediate adjustment and correction, before painting.Thus, the skimming pastes' ability to be colored saves you precious time, labor and potential labor related extra costs.

Not only you can but in many cases, the use of several skimming pastes is a necessity as well as a good practice. What those cases are? Those cases are surfaces/substrates that are not smooth and/or level, substrates with surface damage, dents and cracks  etc. To smooth and even out the substrate before applying the finishing skim coat using an ultrafine skimming paste (STUCCOFIX-P), will probably require the application of successive skim coats of STUCCOFIX-P. Alternatively, use other (spackling) pastes with various per-coat thicknesses, POWDER COAT, GRANULAR, or GRANULAR ULTRA, thus reducing the number of coats required and of course, labor related costs.

It is important to know that before you attempt to do anything on a skimmed surface, it is absolutely necessary to prime that surface using the appropriate and suitable, (for the installation/application that will follow), primer. Those primers can be DUROSTICK AQUAFIX, SOLVENT BASED PRIMER or else, always depending on the application that will follow. After the priming is completed, you can paint using any type of paint, (the skim coated surface can accept all paint types when properly primed). After the appropriate primer is used, you can also install any type of lining by using the specific, for the lining, adhesive. You can use cementitious and acrylic,adhesives as well as wallpaper adhesives etc., safely and securely.

Although this it is a job usually performed by craftsmen, if you are handy, you can also perform it yourself, once you get familiar with the right step-by-step procedures. You can always try it, see if you are satisfied with the result and continue until the completion of the project. Just make sure you know what to do at each step of the application and continue on. If you have any questions, please contact our Technical Support Team at technical@durostick.gr and we will answer them for you. Read the necessary product and application instructions that can be found on the product packaging and in the technical manuals of the company, in print and digital format, on the Company website www.durostick.gr and also www.yparxeilysi.gr.

Carefully examine the condition of the surface and the extent of the damage before you start working. Also, judge the surface using your own aesthetics, as well as your own and other requirements for the finished surface you want to create. Make notes of the steps required to properly prepare the surface, as well as the products needed for the completion of those steps. Choose brand name products, that are certified, reliable and well established in the marketplace, products that will assist you in achieving the best result possible.

Before starting painting, make sure that the texture of the surface is sufficiently smooth, according to the/your requirements and aesthetics. Also, make sure that the flatness and evenness of the surface(s) is satisfactory and that there are no loose sections (bursts), visible defects or any damage. If needed, sand using the appropriate sandpaper and remove all the dust from both the floor but also the wall/ceiling surface(s). Start by priming the surface with the suitable, for the situation, primer ((DUROSTICK AQUAFIX, SOLVENT BASED PRIMER) and let it dry sufficiently. Paint the surface using the paint of choice by strictly following the instructions on the packaging (dilution rates, drying times etc.).

DUROSTICK is next to you, from the initial stages of looking and finding/discovering your own personal solution(s), the selection and purchase of the appropriate, for each case, products, but also during the application steps andbeyond. Our Technical Support Team via phone, e-mail, special applications, and mobile app support, is available and at your disposal 24/7. We are next to you, by making our vast information, knowledge and experience available to you in print and digital format, with educational videos for the correct and proper use of a variety of our products, and by having them available for you, at our points of sale and of course on the Internet, and even by mail.