Replies

1. 
   Dunwright | Aug 12, 2005 06:07pm | #1

   With a little prep work, you should be good to go.
   It's been my experience that the walls will not need to be de-glossed; but will need to be de-greased.
   This is relatively easy to do; using "Spic-n-Span" "TSP" or some other product spec'd for wall washing.

1. 
   Wylie1 | Aug 14, 2005 10:44pm | #2

   I swear by tsp. Follow the direction and be sure to rinse the walls too. It's amazing how much dirt gets left behind after a first wash!

   I use a spray bottle filled with water and just squirt the wall when I'm rinsing. Then I have a bucket of water beside me to rinse out the cloth from time to time. When the water in the bucket gets grungy, I just change the water.

   Wear gloves for the tsp part.  And remember--prep always takes longer than the actual painting!

1. 
   msm | Aug 19, 2005 09:24pm | #3

   i agree, use tsp (there's a new 'green' non-phosphate version on the market.
   as has been said, wear gloves and rinse well. buy a new cheap mop and just mop the walls.curious- eggshell too glossy for you? it sure cleans up better than Flat. (and resists dirt and grease too)

2. 
   Wylie1 | Aug 20, 2005 07:45am | #4

   If you do want some washability (depending on the brand it's nearly impossible to clean a flat wall well) but less sheen that eggshell, check out satin or pearl. They are quite nice.

1. 
   strat0477 | Aug 20, 2005 08:28am | #5

   Sounds like some good info!The reason I am looking at flat paint is because for the life of me I can't get an even sheen on the walls. I'm notoriously anal when it comes to this stuff and it's going to drive me crazy!Although I originally said I was going to use the same paint, I've been thinking about trying some of the Farrow and Ball paint in a similar color. What do you folks think?Thanks for your help!

1. 
   WayneL5 | Aug 21, 2005 02:32am | #6

   To get an even sheen you need to use a high quality roller.  A 1/4" or 3/8" nap, no thicker.  Don't use cheap rollers.

   Use a drop light or something else portable to shine at a glancing angle to the wall and move it around as you work.  And the general room lighting while you are painting should be bright.

   Two coats are needed to get an even sheen.

2. 
   msm | Aug 21, 2005 06:53am | #7

   ...good roller AND prime well, for a surface that takes the color coat uniformly. have the store shake the paint well, and stir gently but well before using.
   F&B is supposed to be excellent, but practically any brand will look uniform if your prep and apply correctly.