If you are getting your Chantilly home ready to sell, you may be considering doing some of your own painting.
If you have paint, tape, tarp and some brushes, you can do a lot.
Remember that some rooms call for a complete sand-down, and when that is the case, Rule #1 is that your walls must be stain-free before adding the next coat of paint.
You may have “industrial strength” stains, but most spots can be treated with a damp rag or a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. For the big stuff, you’ll need something more.
For example, “grime” is the most common stain type . To remove ground-in dirt and oil, start with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket, then add 1 cup of ammonia, 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar, and 1/4 cup of baking soda.
Rub in gently and follow-up with a clean water rinse.
Here are a few other very common problems and possible solutions:
- Permanent Marker : Blot the stain with a rubbing alcohol-soaked cotton ball. Allow to air dry.
- Mildew : Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to 4 cups of water. Spray and allow to air dry.
- Crayon : Dust a damp sponge with baking soda and scrub. Baby wipes are another option.
Also be aware of “water stains”; the result of a leak or something similar. Make sure the water source is corrected prior to painting. Then, to remove spots, mix 1 part bleach to 4 parts water, thoroughly rinse the stain, and use a hair dryer to dry the solution on the wall.
This preparation makes all the difference. If the walls are not well prepped, you can waste a lot of time and expense with a paint job that just does not look right.
If you are painting in order to sell you home, and you are considering what the current market will bring for your property, by all means take advantage of our free MARKET SNAPSHOT service for those living in the Northern Virginia area. And if you need any other insights or have questions regarding current market conditions in your Northern Virginia neighborhood, we invite your contact so that we can be of help.