DRJ PAINTING

Kitchens and bathrooms are the hardest working rooms in any Australian home. They are constantly exposed to a tough combination of steam, condensation, grease, and high humidity. This environment is brutal on standard wall paint, often leading to common problems like peeling, yellowing, and the dreaded appearance of mould and mildew. Painting these spaces isn't just about a new colour; it's about applying a tough, protective coating that can handle the conditions. Choosing the right paint and doing the prep work correctly is essential.

Preparation: The Battle Against Grime and Mould

In a kitchen or bathroom, your prep work is all about decontamination. You cannot paint over mould or grease and expect it to last.

• Treat Mould First: If you have any existing mould or mildew (usually small black dots in corners or on the ceiling), you must kill it completely. Don't just wipe it away. Pick up a dedicated mould killer from Bunnings and follow the instructions, which usually involve spraying the area, letting it sit, and then scrubbing it clean. Always wear gloves and ensure the room is well-ventilated.
• A Serious Clean with Sugar Soap: Kitchen walls, especially near the cooktop, accumulate a fine layer of cooking grease. Bathroom walls get coated in residue from soaps and sprays. A standard wipe-down isn't enough. Give every wall a thorough, heavy-duty clean with Sugar Soap to cut through the grime. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth afterwards.
• Repair and Sand: Fill any cracks or holes as usual, then give the entire room a light scuff sand with 180-grit sandpaper. This helps the new paint bond strongly to the old surface. Wipe away every trace of dust before you start.

Choosing the Right Paint: Your Best Defence

This is where you cannot afford to cut corners. Using a standard low-sheen wall paint in a bathroom is a recipe for failure. You need a specialist product.

• Look for "Kitchen & Bathroom" Paint: Brands like Dulux and Taubmans have specific paint ranges designed for these areas. These are not just marketing gimmicks. They are acrylic paints formulated with powerful broad-spectrum mould inhibitors to prevent mildew from growing on the paint film.
• Choose the Right Sheen: These paints typically come in a durable satin or semi-gloss finish. The higher sheen level creates a harder, less porous surface that moisture can't easily penetrate. This also makes the walls much easier to wipe down and keep clean. A matte finish is not suitable for wet areas as it will absorb moisture and stains.
• Consider a Specialist Primer: If you've had to treat significant mould or stains, it’s a very good idea to apply a coat of stain-blocking primer after cleaning. This will ensure nothing can bleed through your new topcoats.

Application Tips for a Long-Lasting Finish

• Ensure Good Ventilation: Open all windows and use an exhaust fan while you're painting and during the drying process. Good airflow is essential for the paint to cure properly.
• Allow for Full Curing Time: This is crucial. While the paint may be dry to the touch in a few hours, it takes several days (sometimes up to a week) to fully "cure" and develop its maximum resistance to moisture. Try to avoid using the shower for at least 24-48 hours after painting to prevent steam from affecting the fresh paint.