Dulux Supermatt is a highly regarded matt emulsion paint, favoured by both homeowners and professionals for its superior finish and ease of application. This versatile product is ideal for creating a smooth, non-reflective finish on interior walls and ceilings, making it a go-to choice for many painting projects. This guide aims to provide comprehensive advice on using Dulux Supermatt to achieve the best possible results, from preparation and application to tips for maintaining a flawless finish.
Understanding Dulux Supermatt
What is Dulux Supermatt?
Dulux Supermatt is a high-quality matt emulsion paint designed for interior use. Known for its excellent opacity and smooth finish, it is particularly suited for new plaster and other surfaces that require a breathable paint. This product is part of the Dulux Trade range, renowned for its superior performance and professional-grade quality.
Key Features and Benefits
- Excellent Opacity: Dulux Supermatt provides superior coverage, allowing you to achieve a uniform finish with fewer coats. This is especially useful when covering dark or bold colours, creating a pristine, even base.
- Matt Finish: The non-reflective finish of Dulux Supermatt helps hide surface imperfections, providing a clean, contemporary look. This is ideal for creating a calm and understated aesthetic in any room.
- Suitability for New Plaster: Specifically formulated for application on new plaster, Dulux Supermatt allows the surface to breathe while drying, preventing the paint from cracking or peeling. This makes it an excellent choice for new builds or renovations.
Ideal Uses
- New Builds and Renovations: Dulux Supermatt is perfect for use in new builds with new plaster surfaces. Its breathable formula ensures proper plaster drying, reducing the risk of future paint failures. It is also ideal for renovations, offering excellent coverage and a smooth finish to refresh and modernise older properties.
- High-Traffic Areas: Thanks to its durable finish, Dulux Supermatt is suitable for high-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Its non-reflective finish helps hide scuffs and marks, keeping walls looking pristine for longer.
Preparation is Key!
Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving a flawless finish with Dulux Supermatt. Follow these steps to prepare different surfaces before applying the paint:
- Cleaning: Remove dust, dirt, and grease with a mild detergent solution and a sponge. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry completely.
- Repairing: Fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections with a suitable filler, ensuring the surface is smooth and even. Once the filler is dry, sand the area lightly to blend it with the surrounding surface.
- Priming: While Dulux Supermatt can be applied directly to new plaster, using a primer on bare or porous surfaces can be beneficial. Applying a primer seals the surface, ensuring better adhesion and a more uniform finish.
Necessary Tools and Materials
- High-quality brushes and rollers
- Paint trays and stirrers
- Sandpaper and filler
- Masking tape
Application Techniques
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Stir the Paint: Thoroughly stir Dulux Supermatt to ensure even consistency and colour distribution.
- Cutting In: Start by painting the edges and corners of the room with a brush, creating clean lines and ensuring the roller can cover the larger areas without missing spots.
- Rolling: Apply the paint to the larger areas using a roller in a ‘W’ or ‘M’ pattern, then smooth out with vertical strokes. This helps avoid roller marks and ensures a consistent finish.
- Drying Time: Allow sufficient drying time between coats. Dulux Supermatt typically dries to the touch within 2-4 hours, but wait at least 24 hours before applying a second coat to ensure the first coat is fully dry and set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Brush or Roller: Applying too much paint can lead to drips and an uneven finish. Use moderate amounts and apply thin, even coats.
- Skipping Surface Preparation: Proper preparation ensures better adhesion and a superior finish. Always clean, repair, and prime the surface as needed.
- Incorrect Application Techniques: Using improper techniques, such as not maintaining a wet edge or applying too much pressure, can cause streaks and visible brush marks.
Tips and Tricks for a Professional Finish
Achieving a Smooth Finish
- Use High-Quality Tools: Invest in brushes and rollers designed for matt emulsion paints to ensure smoother application and reduce brush strokes and roller marks.
- Maintain a Wet Edge: Work in small sections, blending each section into the previously painted area while the paint is still wet to avoid lap marks.
- Apply Thin, Even Coats: Applying multiple thin coats helps avoid drips and ensures a more uniform finish.
Colour Selection Tips
- Consider the Room’s Purpose: Choose colours based on the room’s use and desired atmosphere. Soft, neutral tones work well in bedrooms, while bold colours can make a statement in living rooms or dining areas.
- Natural Light: Light colours can make small or dark rooms appear larger and brighter, while deeper shades can add warmth and cosiness to larger spaces.
- Experiment with Accent Walls: Use bold colours on accent walls to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Maintenance and Longevity
Caring for Your Dulux Supermatt Walls
- Regular Dusting: Dust walls regularly with a soft cloth or microfibre duster to prevent dirt build-up.
- Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft sponge or cloth with a mild detergent solution for thorough cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the matt finish.
- Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains promptly. Dab the area with a damp cloth and mild detergent, avoiding harsh rubbing.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Ensure proper ventilation in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens to minimise moisture build-up.
Re-touching and Re-coating
- Touch-ups: If you notice small chips, scratches, or discolouration, touch up the paint using the same techniques as the initial application.
- Complete Re-coating: For a tired, faded, or uneven finish, a complete re-coat may be necessary every few years. Follow the same preparation and application steps to ensure a uniform finish.
By following these guidelines, you can transform your home with Dulux Supermatt, achieving a flawless finish that enhances the beauty and character of your interior spaces.
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