Safety Measures for Your DIY Painting Project

Painting your home is relatively easy when you have the experience. For beginners, a lot of confusing questions are on their way. Most of the people keep struggling with the question of paint type, colour palette and the ways to get perfect lines.

What we often overlook is the fact painting your home on your own is risky. It can even be fatal at worse. It is not rare to hear about painting accidents which commonly include falls, broken bones, loss of consciousness, and electrocution.

Moreover, certain paint types are toxic to human health as well as the environment. Hire new house painting services in Los Gatos CA if you want to avoid any of these unfortunate circumstances.

The homeowners who are eager to do it on their own must have these considerations before hopping on the ladder.

1. Personal Safety Equipment

Always use gloves made up of cloth or leather while scraping or sanding walls. Anti-dust masks are easily available in the market. They must be used to avoid respiratory tract and skin allergies.

Eyes must be protected from the volatile chemicals by wearing eye goggles. When you are using harsh chemicals such as strippers and cleaners, it is suggested to wear respirators. 

2. Ladder Safety

The ladder is used in almost every painting project. It should be built to carry the weight and should have the safety measures. Avoid using a ladder in a situation that it was not made to handle. Never risk your life by using a broke or damaged ladder.

Ensure that it is placed on an even stable surface. If the surface is uneven, use leg levellers. Place your steps firmly on the rungs of the ladder and balance yourself. Do not try to reach more than an arm’s length on either side. It is better to have a supportive friend or family member standing on the floor. 

3. Choose Paints With Low VOCs

VOCs stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. According to EPA, some organic chemicals can be extremely toxic to human health. The severity of effects depends on the level and length of exposure. Always choose the paint products with low VOCs. Oil-based paints have relatively higher levels of VOCs.

4. Keep Fire At Bay

Paints are mixed with thinners and alcohols. They can easily catch fire. Do not smoke while painting. Keep away from the heaters, stoves, or fireplaces. 

5. Use Drop Cloths Instead Of Plastic

Using plastics on the floor is extremely dangerous. You can avoid slips by using drop cloths. Avoid placing a ladder over the clothes.

6. Avoid Lead Exposure Risks

Lead-based paints are legally banned and should not be used in any home built after 1978. It is suggested to check the chipping paint before scraping it off.

Older houses have more risk of lead exposure especially when the paint is disturbed and flaking down. If you have an old home, take the safer side and hire old house painting services in Los Gatos CA.