The Press-Dispatch
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1480126
The Press-Dispatch Fall Home Improvement Wednesday, September 28, 2022 E-3 (StatePoint) A home painting project can be overwhelming, especially if you're a begin- ner. However, if you do the right prep work, the painting process doesn't have to be so in- timidating. By following these steps, you'll set yourself up for clean paint lines and amazing results, no matter your skill level. 1. Purchase Proper Supplies. Before the prep work can even begin, it's vital to purchase the proper supplies. Create your list by consid- ering the steps you'll take to complete your project: cleaning the wall surface, taping off edges and then of course, applying paint. As you shop, remember that affordability doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality tools. Use new sandpaper and sponges so the sur- face is smooth and clean to start. Fresh brush- es and rollers will lead to professional-looking results, and a high-quality, cost-effective paint- er's tape, like Duck Brand Clean Release, will help with achieving clean paint lines. Despite what many DIYers believe, using a primer is a necessary step, and shouldn't be considered optional. Primer acts as a barrier and prevents old paint from showing through, so it really can make all the difference. In most cases, you'll only need one coat of new paint if the surface is properly primed. Once you've chosen your primer, don't forget the paint! Se- lect the color and finish you prefer; then, pur- chase a sample and paint a small area to en- sure it meets your expectations. 2. Declutter the Space. Once you've grabbed your supplies and decided on the paint color and finish, remove as much out of the room as possible to avoid any damage during paint- ing. Small, easy-to-move furniture should be temporarily relocated to another space. Heavy, hard-to-move furniture can at least be pushed away from the wall and protected with covers. Switch plate covers, window treatments and light fixtures can be removed and stored until your paint has dried. 3. Make the Surface Smooth and Clean. For the perfect smooth finish, start by light- ly sanding your walls to eliminate any exist- ing imperfections. This will likely cause dust and debris to fall throughout the room, so vac- uum and wipe down walls after you're finished sanding, as the paint will apply more evenly if the surface is clean. The walls can be wiped with a sponge and a mixture of dish soap and warm water. 4. Tape and Protect. The final step to pre- pare your room for paint is to tape the walls and protect the floors and any other areas you want to keep paint-free. When applying Duck Brand Clean Release or other painter's tapes, keep the pieces one to two feet in length for the easiest application and securest seal. For an extra-tight hold, use a tool such as a put- ty knife to smooth down the edges and help prevent paint bleed. As for the floor, cover the surface with an old sheet or protective film to catch any paint drips or spills, taping down the edges if needed to make sure no paint leaks through the edges. Once you've followed these steps, you're set up for success and prepared to begin painting! Time to pick up your brush and start that room transformation. Five factors to consider when buying a fridge (StatePoint) Shopping for a new refrigerator can feel over- whelming. But knowing your exact needs will simplify the process and help you feel confi- dent in your purchase. "A refrig- erator can do a lot more for you than hold your food and keep it cold. Some of to- day's mod- els have fea- tures that can truly elevate your kitchen experience," says Peter Weed- fald, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. "Knowing your needs and wants can help you be a savvy shopper." To find the right fridge for your home, consider these five factors: 1. Measurements. Mea- sure the space where you'll be placing the fridge. Not on- ly does your new fridge need to fit into this spot, but you al- so need clearance to open the doors. Having these specifica- tions can help you begin your search and narrow your op- tions. 2. Finish. Consider giving your kitchen a cohesive look by matching the finish of your new refrigerator to your other current appliances. Stainless steel is particularly sleek and easy to clean. With a quick wipe-down, your fridge can look brand new. Ultimately, opt for a finish that you love and that ties your kitchen to- gether. 3. Capacity. Keep your shopping and cooking habits in mind to ensure your fridge size meets your needs. Are you someone who buys a lot of fresh produce and goods? Do you tend to do big grocery hauls? Then a large-capacity fridge is a must. If space is at a premium and you're search- ing for something compact, yet still able to handle your needs, the Sharp SJB1255GS, a 24-inch Bottom-Freezer Counter Depth Refrigerator may be the ideal fit. With two shelves, a spacious 4.2 cubic foot freezer with three draw- ers, and a removable wine rack for quick and easy organi- zation, this innovative space-saving model fea- tures well-de- signed stor- age solutions. 4. Freezer style. There are three main freez- er style op- tions you may come across when looking for a new refrigerator: side-by-side, bottom-freezer, and top-freez- er. Determining which style is right for you largely de- pends on what you want as your main focus. For exam- ple, if you use your refrigera- tor more often than the freez- er, a bottom-freezer is a good choice, as it means that your refrigerator shelves will be at eye level. 5. Features. A fter the ba- sics, such as capacity and fin- ish, comes the fun stuff — extra features. These extra features can really set one appliance apart from anoth- er. To get an idea of what's available today, consider the Sharp SJG2254FS, a French Four Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator. A great bet for those who entertain or have growing families and chang- ing needs, it features a triple cooling system that allows you to independently control the refrigerator, drawers, and ice maker for greater flexibility. A multipurpose flex drawer with four independently-con- trolled temperature settings means you can optimize the storage of meats (30 degrees F) or use it as a beverage cool- er (34 degrees F). The flex drawer can also be optimized for deli items and snacks (37 degrees F) or converted to a wine chiller (41 degrees F). Looking for a new fridge, or any major appliance for that matter, comes with challeng- es, but understanding the lat- est options available and how they relate to your needs can make the process smooth and simple. *Only available at authorized Spartan Mower independent dealers. Buy now, standard 3 year warranty, extended through March 1, 2026. Hour limitations still apply. Engine and transmission do not apply. $500 instant rebate off invoiced sales price. Promotion ends October 31, 2022. BIG LOOK. EVEN SMALLER PRICE. FALL PROMOTION $500 OFF Instant Rebate New 2022 RZ-C, RZ, or RZ-Pro Extended Warranty on ALL New Mowers RZ-C RZ RZ-Pro 30 INDIANA ST, JASPER (right behind Shoney's) 812-482-3366 • www.ajcycle.net Tuesday-Friday: 9am to 6pm • Saturday: 9am to 2pm • Closed Sunday & Monday Learn more at partanmowers.com/fall promo AJ CYCLE Prep your room for CLEAN PAINT LINES