Month: July 2024

When it comes to kitchen paint, selecting the right type is crucial for durability
and appearance. Regardless of the type you choose, always opt for high-quality, scrubbable
paint to ensure longevity in this high-use area of your home.

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss paint is the go-to option for many kitchens. Its benefits include:

• Resistance is high to moisture and grease
• Easy to clean and wipe down
• Reflects light, brightening the space

Satin Finish

Satin finish offers a happy medium between matte and glossy:

• Soft, pearl-like sheen
• Fairly easy to clean
• Hides wall imperfections better than glossier options

Eggshell

Eggshell finish is becoming increasingly popular:

• Low sheen, similar to a chicken eggshell
• Compared to flat paint, eggshell is more washable
• Good for low-traffic areas of the kitchen

Specialised Kitchen Paint

Some brands such as Resene and Dulux offer paints specifically formulated for kitchens:

• Enhanced durability against steam and grease
• Mould and mildew resistant
• Various sheens often available

Why Paint Selection Matters in the Kitchen

Choosing the right paint for your kitchen is crucial for several reasons:

1. Durability: Kitchens are high-traffic areas exposed to heat, steam, grease, and frequent
cleaning. The right paint will withstand these conditions without peeling, fading, or
absorbing odours.

2. Cleanability: Cooking splatters and spills are inevitable. Selecting a paint that’s easy to
clean without damaging the finish will keep your kitchen looking fresh for longer.

3. Moisture Resistance: Kitchens are prone to high humidity levels. Paint with good
moisture resistance prevents mould and mildew growth, protecting both the aesthetics
and your health.

4. Aesthetic Longevity: Quality kitchen paint maintains its colour and finish over time, even
with frequent exposure to sunlight and artificial lighting.

5. Health Considerations: Some paints are formulated with antimicrobial properties, which
can be beneficial in food preparation areas.

6. Impact on Lighting: The sheen of your paint affects how light is reflected in your kitchen,
influencing both the ambiance and the practical task lighting.

7. Cost-Effectiveness: While higher-quality kitchen paints may be more expensive initially,
their durability often makes them more cost-effective in the long run, reducing the
frequency of repainting.

By carefully considering these factors and choosing the appropriate paint, you can ensure that
your kitchen not only looks great but also remains functional and hygienic for years to come.

Mastering the art of gib plastering takes a lot of practice and as a homeowner, you might be tempted to tackle gib plastering yourself to save money. However, there are compelling reasons to consider hiring a professional. Here are five key reasons why enlisting the expertise of a gib plastering professional could be one of the best decisions you make when it comes to your renovation plans:

1. Superior Quality Finish

Pro: Professional plasterers have years of training and experience developing specialised skills to achieve a flawless finish. They know how to prepare surfaces properly, apply the right amount of plaster, and create perfectly smooth walls and ceilings. Plasterers understand the intricacies of different plastering techniques, such as skim coating, float and set, and textured finishes.

Hiring an expert helps identify and solve potential issues before they become major problems. For example, they can detect moisture damage, cracks, or structural issues that might require special attention. They also understand how the light falls in the room in the daylight vs night. 

Con: DIY plastering often results in visible imperfections, uneven surfaces, and a less durable finish that may need redoing sooner. There is nothing worse than thinking you have done an excellent job only to turn on the light in the evening and see imperfections such as uneven application, bubbles, or cracks.

2. Time and Efficiency

Pro: Professionals can complete the job much faster than a DIY enthusiast. They have the right tools, techniques, and manpower to efficiently plaster even large areas in a shorter amount of time than a newbie learning the skill. Professionals also have a streamlined process that minimises downtime. They’re efficient in prepping the area, applying plaster, and finishing the job. This ensures your project stays on schedule so you can continue on with your painting or wallpapering and towards your goal of finishing the project.

Con: DIY plastering can be time-consuming, especially for beginners. It might take days or even weeks to complete a job that professionals could finish in hours. If you decide to do it yourself, be prepared to invest a considerable amount of time. Without the necessary experience, the process can be time-consuming and frustrating, leading to delays in your project.

3. Gib plastering that is more cost effective in the long run 

Pro: While hiring a professional might seem more expensive initially, it can save money in the long term. Professionals have the right tools and materials to get it right the first time, reducing the need for repairs or redoing the work. 

Con: DIY attempts might seem cheaper at first, but the cost of materials, tools, and potential mistakes can add up quickly. You might end up spending more trying to fix errors or hiring a professional to correct the work.

4. Access to Professional-Grade Materials and Tools

Pro: Professional plasterers have access to high-quality materials and specialised tools that may not typically be available to the general public. Because plasterers work in the environment constantly, they also know which approach is best to use as different houses built in different eras.. Another point to consider is that some trade professionals use large mobile scaffolds that are much easier and faster than moving a ladder every 2 seconds. They will take care of assembling and disassembling these large items. 

Con: DIY plastering often relies on consumer-grade materials and basic tools, which may not produce the same level of quality or durability. If you want to use a mobile scaffold and don’t have one already, you’ll need to hire one, get it to site, assemble it, disassemble it and return it. 

5. Peace of Mind and Guaranteed Results

Pro: Reputable Gib plastering professionals often provide guarantees for their work. You can rest easy knowing that any issues will be addressed promptly and professionally.

Con: DIY work doesn’t come with guarantees. If something goes wrong, you’re on your own to fix it or potentially hire a professional to correct the mistakes.

While DIY gib plastering might seem appealing, the expertise, efficiency, and quality assurance offered by professionals often outweigh the perceived cost savings of doing it yourself.

If you’re looking to add the skill to your own toolbox and have the time and patience to perfect it, why not go ahead and give it a go. If you’re looking for a smooth, durable, and professional finish in a timely manner that adds value to your home, consider hiring a gib plastering expert such as Kurts Quality Decorating for your next project.