Spaces Vol 1 Is 6

TIPS
COLOUR
YOUR
DASHAIN
Painting your home or work place is much more than just protection of
walls. Just like the colour of the clothes you wear, the colours of your
home are an expression of your personality. Moreover the effects of the
surroundings can be used to enhance your workplace or dwelling place
and set the mood you desire.
Text: Soumitra Roy, Asian Paints
Here are a few ideas to plan and have your painting job done in a more organized way:
INTERIOR WALLS
1. Identify the rooms you wish to paint.
2. Decide the shades/ scheme you want to use in each room. To
arrive at the right colour combinations check out outlets in your
town for the appropriate product.
3. Remove light fixtures or mask them with masking tape, paper
and/or cloth in order to prevent damage due to paint spillage.
WATER SEEPAGE FACTS AND FICTION
1. Paint is NOT a water proofing solution. The only permanent
solution to water leakage and dampness is to rectify the source
of the problem. Typical causes of water seepage are due to
cracks in the external walls; leaking drainage pipes or water
supply pipes; high ground water level that is getting absorbed
in the walls from the foundation
2. Application of Enamels (Oil Paints) will not solve the problem
of water seepage.
3. The water seeping through the wall will erupt on the surface
at some place or other.
4. We advise you to get a civil contractor or waterproofing
expert to rectify the problem before you paint.
EXTERIOR WALLS
4. For exterior surfaces it is very important to undertake repairs
of any wall imperfections before commencing painting. The
most common problem with exterior walls, especially old
constructions is cracks in the wall. Avoid applying putty or
filling compound while painting exterior surfaces. Fill up cracks
with a 1:3 cement and sand mixture.
5. All external drainage pipes must be checked for rusting or
leakage. Any faulty plumbing must be rectified.
6. Special attention must be given to the roof. Check for cracks
near the edges and close to the water reservoirs. Proper
masonry or waterproofing work on the ceiling will enhance
the performance of the painted surfaces.
100 SEP-OCT 2005 SPACES