Preparation and Application
In this instructional video, you can see how to treat a previously painted wall before repainting it.
Curious about how to paint a roof and what the benefits are of Historex Roof & Iron Paint? Then quickly watch this instructional video where everything is explained clearly.
Do you have wooden doors that you’d like to paint yourself? You can now do so with the help of this instructional video, which shows you step-by-step how to do it best.
If you have mold on the wall and want to repaint it, proper preparation is incredibly important, and in this video, you can see how to do it step by step.
Does your wrought iron need a makeover? Then watch this instructional video.
The Paint Guide
Below you can find our paint guide that will assist you in choosing the right paint for various applications.
Prevent Practical Issues
Treat the Surface Properly
Why?
To ensure that the paint remains beautiful and does not peel off.
What?
Clean and degrease the surface properly; sand the surface carefully.
How?
These are the steps:
- Clean/degrease/wash the surface; Degrease concrete, wood, or a previously painted surface with Rambo Cleaner; Degrease a metallic surface, this can be done with Progold Cleaner; Note: DO NOT use soap!
- Sand the surface;
- Degrease/clean/wash the surface again;
- Apply the paint layer.
Test
Check if you’ve done it correctly. Take tape (paper or crepe) and press it firmly. Pull the tape off smoothly in one continuous motion from the surface. If the surface comes off or sticks to the tape, then you haven’t treated the surface properly.
Why?
To prevent “tears” and leaks in the paint.
What?
Oil paint (alkyd), because it dries slower than water-based paint (acrylic).
How?
Place the paint mostly at the top, so choose your starting point at the top of the wall or object you are painting. Apply some of the paint in the middle and some at the bottom as well. Use your brush from bottom to top. This prevents “tears” and “sags”. Always paint in one direction!
Why?
To ensure optimal adhesion and coverage.
What?
A surface painted with acrylic paint (water-based). Only paint over it with acrylic paint and NEVER with oil paint (alkyd). If you do, the paint won’t adhere to the surface. Eventually, the paint will peel off or hairline cracks will form (crazing).
A surface painted with oil paint (alkyd). You can paint over it with both water-based (acrylic) and oil-based (alkyd) paints. Ensure proper preparation, cleaning, sanding, and washing (see above).
Why?
To ensure optimal coverage.
What?
Use a flat brush for stain-like and transparent products.
Use a round or oval brush for oil paint (alkyd) and/or opaque varnishes. A flat brush cannot apply thick layers of varnish. If you try, you will often dilute the paint with turpentine. This makes the paint too thin, resulting in poor coverage and a decrease in quality.
Use long-haired paint rollers for rough surfaces.
Use short-haired paint rollers for smoother surfaces.
Use a sponge roller or felt roller for larger areas.
Use a round brush for finishing corners and edges.
Why?
For new surfaces, it is important to apply a primer layer, which not only ensures better adhesion but also eliminates the absorption of the surface. For already painted surfaces, it is not always necessary.
What?
Apply a primer layer; then paint with a Latex product from Historex.
How?
These are the steps:
- Treat the surface properly (see above).
- If it’s an uneven wall, apply putty to make it smooth.
- Apply Historex Primex or Historex primer. This provides the correct water-based or alkyd-based primer layer.
- Paint with your favorite Historex latex paint, or Historex alkyd-based paint, or with the new Historex Aqua paint (water-based high gloss).
Frequently Asked Questions
In its approach to the customer, Varossieau aims to be as customer-friendly and informative as possible. Customers not only come for the purchase of our products but also have numerous questions about these products and the best approach to various desires or problems regarding construction and painting work. Therefore, we want to answer their questions as well as possible and provide the best advice.
Over time and from experience, it appears that there are specific questions that are frequently asked. We have mapped out these frequently asked questions and compiled them in the “tips” section with the correct answers from our experts.
Enjoy reading!
Click on the question and the answer will appear.
Yes, we do. Our industrial paints from Sigma coatings are already used for various work floors such as in garage workshops, warehouses, and production halls. The coatings can also be used in the private and decorative sector. For example, in garages and on terraces and driveways. However, the currently used Sigma coatings are mostly intended for the ‘professional’ and industrial applications. However, Varossieau has a new product in development that is more suitable for decoration and do-it-yourselfers.
We will be launching this product soon.
Oil paint seals off the breathability of the concrete. This causes the paint layer to peel off.
We have a two-component epoxy primer (Sigmacover 280) that adheres excellently to galvanizing. This primer does not peel off if applied correctly. This product can be painted over with various topcoats (including alkyd paint), but if you want real top quality, it is recommended to also finish with a two-component topcoat.
The old paint layers must be completely removed. Then thoroughly clean and remove the powdery underlayer. First apply a primer (Primex) and finally finish with a waterborne system.
Depending on the situation, there are various causes:
- Painting on a damp substrate,
Different systems applied (acrylic on alkyd or vice versa),
Poorly cleaned substrate,
Rising damp.
Currently, we are in a testing phase for a moisture-resistant product before bringing it to the market.
Absolutely not. Water paint is an acrylic paint which has an elastic effect. This will cause the oil paint to crack and peel off.
First, treat the substrate with one layer of Primex and finish with two coats of Acryllatex Matte, Latex Matte, Varotex Matte, or Acryllatex Satin.
Of course, Varossieau provides free advice on location.
We hope to be of service to our customers by answering these questions and will remain vigilant to answer frequently asked questions in subsequent editions.
Paint Tips
Paint tips for an interior full of color
With color, you can instantly make a space appear larger or smaller. That’s why paint is a cheap solution to make your interior attractive without any demolition or renovation. With a few simple steps, you can adjust the interior. And painting is a cheap way to decorate.
Color effects
Different colors have different effects. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow make a space appear smaller. Due to their calming effect, these are best used in rooms facing north and east. Cool colors like blue, green, and violet make a room appear larger. These colors have a cool and fresh effect and are very suitable for rooms facing south and west. Neutral colors like various shades of white emphasize the contents of the room. Furniture gets more attention.
Paint Tips
Before you start, it’s handy to read these paint tips. They contain some handy tips that ensure you can work without problems and more efficiently.
Adhesion to Various Metals
Zinc and aluminum paint adhere poorly to most metals. First, degrease them well with thinner, and then apply a so-called epoxy primer. Gloss paint adheres excellently to this.
Prevent Rust
Painting over rust is wasted effort. Underneath the paint, rusting continues. Protecting iron and steel starts with rust removal (even the blue-black layer on new iron must be removed) until the surface has a weak metallic shine. For superficial rust, use a wire brush on the drill, and for stubborn rust, use coarse sandpaper or a grinding disc. Afterward, thoroughly degrease the metal with thinner, apply two layers of zinc phosphate primer, and two layers of gloss paint. Lightly rusted metal can also be treated with a so-called rust converter, followed by two layers of gloss paint.
Extra Care for End Grain
The edges of plywood and the end grain of wood are very sensitive to moisture. Paint these with extra care. It is even advisable to seal off sheet edges and end grain with wood glue before painting for exterior work. Weathered Wood Must Be Removed Paint does not adhere to weathered wood. Weathered wood, usually soft and gray in color on the surface, should be thoroughly sanded away.
Remove Painter’s Tape Quickly
If you’re working with two colors or need to paint edges, use painter’s tape, which is much easier to work with. Remove the tape as soon as possible. If you leave it on too long, it can sometimes be difficult to remove.
Prefer Twice Thin
Light colors often do not cover in one go. In that case, do not paint thicker but apply two thin layers. The result is definitely better.
Thin with Spoons
The amount of thinning you can add to paint is usually indicated as a percentage of the quantity. Thinning by 10% of the content of a normal can of 0.75 L means 0.075 L or six tablespoons.
Doors, Windows, or Cabinets + Old Paintwork + Putty
Painting a Door, Window, or Cabinet
If you are painting a door, window, or cabinet, remove the knobs, fasteners, and all other hardware that may be in your way. Painting around something is much more difficult than loosening and tightening a few screws.
Thoroughly Clean and Sand Old Paintwork
Indoors and outdoors: after you have repaired damage, thoroughly degrease the entire surface and dull it. Use ammonia water for degreasing and waterproof paper No. 250 for sanding. Sanding and degreasing can be done at once if you use ammonia water for the subsequent sanding. In a kitchen, where grease is inevitable, it is better to use a stronger degreaser.
Putty Shrinks
Putty shrinks as it dries. Surface damage, therefore, needs to be puttied twice, and deeper ones sometimes three times. Sand the dried putty with grit 180. Always use a sanding block or a flat sanding machine.
Remove Painter’s Tape Quickly
If you’re working with two colors or need to paint edges, use painter’s tape, which is much easier to work with. Remove the tape as soon as possible. If you leave it on too long, it can sometimes be difficult to remove.
Prefer Twice Thin
Light colors often do not cover in one go. In that case, do not paint thicker but apply two thin layers. The result is definitely better.
Thin with Spoons
The amount of thinning you can add to paint is usually indicated as a percentage of the quantity. Thinning by 10% of the content of a normal can of 0.75 L means 0.075 L or six tablespoons.
Painting a Door, Window, or Cabinet
If you are painting a door, window, or cabinet, remove the knobs, fasteners, and all other hardware that may be in your way. Painting around something is much more difficult than loosening and tightening a few screws.
Thoroughly Clean and Sand Old Paintwork
Indoors and outdoors: after you have repaired damage, thoroughly degrease the entire surface and dull it. Use ammonia water for degreasing and waterproof paper No. 250 for sanding. Sanding and degreasing can be done at once if you use ammonia water for the subsequent sanding. In a kitchen, where grease is inevitable, it is better to use a stronger degreaser.
Putty Shrinks
Putty shrinks as it dries. Surface damage, therefore, needs to be puttied twice, and deeper ones sometimes three times. Sand the dried putty with grit 180. Always use a sanding block or a flat sanding machine.
Optical Effects
By letting the color of the ceiling extend a bit onto the wall, the room seems lower. The room seems higher if the color of the wall is extended a bit onto the ceiling. Doors, cabinets are less noticeable when painted the same color as the walls. By painting the wall in a striking color, an object gets more attention. Varossieau (the manufacturer of Historex) also has a color expert working. For this, you can call Varossieau. Leave your name and phone number, and you will be called back for an (non-binding!) appointment. The advisor will come to you personally and provide you with customized color advice. This service is entirely free.
The color of our heart
Red
Red is a primary color in the additive color system. In the subtractive color system, it is a secondary color. It is the complementary color of cyan. It is the hue with the most powerful symbolism. If a language has names for colors at all, there is always a name for red. The color red light is at the end of the light spectrum that can still be seen by the human eye. The wavelength of red light is around 700 nanometers. Colors with lower frequencies are seen by some animals. These are called infrared.
Red in our home
Red is the color of vitality and resilience. It is the color of love, passion, and courage. The color red makes you independent and energetic. If red is your favorite color at the moment or plays a prominent role in your life, you react decisively and assertively. If red is your preference at the moment, you want to be independent and determine your own direction. You are enterprising and crave challenges and adventure. Everyone knows the song “Lady in Red” and the feeling it evokes. Red enthusiasts have enormous vitality and stamina. Probably no coincidence that the largest paint brand in Suriname has a red “O” in its logo. The color red can help you become more resilient and clearly define your boundaries. Red makes you active, enterprising, and combative. This color stimulates you to take on challenges. The red color can have an invigorating effect on you. The color red helps you feel more confident and secure in a new situation and to achieve the things you want. Too much red can make you demanding of yourself and others. When you are too busy or stressed, red can be too imposing for you. The color red then pushes you even further. The color red enhances both physical and emotional feelings such as love, anger, sadness, impulsive outbursts, and destructive behavior. Red can raise blood pressure. So, when painting your house, consider where the color red would fit well. It depends entirely on your situation, your goals, and your character. The advantages (and sometimes disadvantages) are clear……
Additional Info
Red is functional in buildings where there are information points, in a hallway or main entrance of a building. At those points where multiple directions converge. The red helps to further energize the building from there. The red color at an entrance encourages action and ensures that you choose your direction within the building in a targeted manner. A bright red wall can have a disharmonious effect on people. The color red can, for example, increase blood pressure and provoke aggression. In that case, do not choose bright red, but Bordeaux red, which is further weakened in its effect when combined with sand color. Bordeaux is the most subdued color red in the spectrum. With integrated lighting along the walls and ceiling, you ensure that such an area does not become too dark.
Religion
In the Catholic Church, red is the liturgical color of the vestments during Pentecost, referring to the fiery tongues. The color is also used on feasts of martyrs and on Good Friday. The color red also gives value to the office. Only cardinals are allowed to wear cardinal red (or scarlet red). This indicates their willingness to sacrifice their own blood for the church. Red is also the color of love. On Valentine’s Day, many red hearts are for sale. Hindus paint their hands red with henna at certain festivals. And everyone in Suriname knows how the color red is used during Phagwa as one of the colors symbolizing spring. Everyone also knows the red flags in the yards of Hindus in Suriname.
Fine Arts
In painting, red is also used as an attention-grabber. The color stands out in a painting compared to more neutral colors due to color perspective.
Science and Technology
In the color coding for electronics, red stands for the number 2.
Trivia
Language usage further nuances red in all kinds of combinations such as: fire red, cherry red, scarlet red, tomato red, copper red, brick red, bright red, raspberry red, etc.
Negative and positive
Red is a color that quickly attracts attention and in the West is seen as both a sign of danger and of love. Therefore, a red list is a list of people, animals, … associated with danger. That is why red is often used as a signal color in traffic lights and signals. This meaning may also come from the fact that blood has a red color; (the color of) blood is instinctively associated with danger by humans and animals. Symbolic meanings of red are connected with this; it is the color of anger.
Red is also associated with the god of war Mars, which is probably why the red planet Mars is dedicated to this god. Blood, but also fire, can be the basis for this. It is no coincidence that red is also the color of firefighting and fire prevention.
The association with blood and the heart immediately includes the positive aspect of love and connection. The red heart is its symbol. Red is also the color of sexuality and prostitution in the West. A prostitution area is referred to as a red-light district, which means that there is a red glow of lights here. In the East, however, the color red has a very positive connotation. For example, in China, it stands for passion, prosperity, happiness, love, popularity, and power. The quality of a Chinese restaurant is indicated by the number of red lanterns. In a striking contrast to the West, in China, eroticism is associated with the color yellow, which most likely has to do with skin color.
In the West, red is also associated with joy, wealth, nobility, and the elite. Think of the use of the red carpet at official events, commemorations, and celebrations.
The Color of Joy
The Color of Joy
When we see the yellow blossoms of the greenheart tree (e.g., the mamabon tree across from the old building of the National Assembly) and feel the first warm sun rays on our skin in the morning, any blues disappear. In good weather, we enjoy the delightful tropical scents, the blooming nature, birds, and cheerful people.
Yellow
The color yellow is the most visible color to the human eye. Pure, bright, and sunny yellow is the easiest to see. People who are colorblind to other colors can often still see yellow. Like the energy of a bright sunny day, yellow promotes wisdom and vigilance, creativity and intellectual energy. Yellow symbolizes the sun, intelligence, light, faster learning, social energy, cooperation, joy, happiness, energy, cheerfulness, optimism, purity, enthusiasm, warmth, honor, and loyalty. We see golden yellow as the color of Sunday. Students who study in yellow rooms perform better on exams.
Sacred and Spiritual
In ancient China, yellow was reserved only for the emperor. Yellow clothing and objects still signify a higher social status. Although each dynasty assigned its own color to each official rank, yellow was reserved only for the emperor himself. Yellow is also the primary color in Buddhism and symbolizes a world free from earthly worries. Yellow (called ‘khenet’ in ancient Egypt) was the color of the skin of women from peoples living in the Mediterranean region. Libyans, Bedouins, Syrians, and Hittites. Yellow was also the color of the sun and, together with gold, symbolized perfection. High-ranking ladies wore small beeswax cones that melted from body heat. This ‘liquid gold’ covered the upper body with a pleasantly scented yellow jelly.
Joy
Yellow (gold) enriches your life and lifts you up, and… that makes you happy. And that’s also part of what Easy Living is about? So, when painting your house, consider where the color yellow would fit well. The benefits are clear……
Attention!
Yellow objects attract attention. The color is a real eye-catcher (think of the Tour de France) and is therefore used to indicate roadblocks, yellow taxis, in the Yellow Pages, the well-known yellow Post-its, and the yellow card in soccer.
Hope
Yellow also expresses hope. In times of war, yellow ribbons were worn, a symbol of the hope of women waiting for the return of their husbands. Think also of the famous song “Tie a yellow ribbon around the old oak tree.” Recently, Lance Armstrong introduced the yellow wristband as a symbol of his fight against cancer. Since then, 47.5 million people worldwide have been wearing this wristband. But yellow is not a handy color to sell expensive items to men. They see yellow as childish and untrustworthy… so avoid yellow if you want to convey trust and stability.
