The better to paint a metal staircase. Stair frame painting. Painting a wooden staircase

Metal forging has always been considered a heavy and revered art. It is art, since it is one thing to simply weld two pieces of iron to each other, and it is quite another to make something beautiful and pleasing to the eye out of this.

But to create a real masterpiece, the skill of one blacksmith is not enough, the finished product still needs to be painted, and we will talk about how and with what it is better to do this in this article.

Features of painting forging

Someone may say that the coloring of a forged product is no different from painting, for example, wooden tabletop, but this is far from the case. Firstly, these are of course special paints, which will be discussed below. And secondly, the method of painting, especially if there is a need to do painting work with your own hands, but there are no skills in this matter.

Interestingly, with the wrong approach, even the most expensive and high-quality paint will be powerless to protect the product from corrosion.

If we talk about the methods of painting, then they can be very diverse:

• Brush.
• Spray gun (see We select a spray gun for painting).
• Tampon.
• Dipping.

Important! When working with an airbrush, it should be remembered that the thicker the consistency of the paint, the harder it is for it to spray and the more pressure must be set on the compressor.

But you should always remember about difficult places, which are always abundant on forged products. For example, these can be places of welding, the fact is that during the forging process, the metal is exposed to strong heat and weakens by itself, and welding burns the protective film that always forms on the surface even more.

It is in the places of welding that corrosion begins in the first place, and from there it diverges throughout the product. Another important nuance, which should be remembered is the cleaning of the product, no, not from possible rust, since three-in-one paint for forged products can safely cope with it, but to clean it from scale and metal delamination.

Cleaned and ready for painting

The fact is that at the moment of calcination, inhomogeneous parts of the metal begin to peel off, upon a cursory examination, this may not be noticed, but it is enough to brush the finished product with a metal brush, as particles resembling scales immediately begin to fall off.

Cleaning with a metal brush is also necessary if the product has already been painted, and now you just need to renew the coating. Paint for metal has a very high adhesion to the surface to be painted, but it can peel off the old coating.

Forging paints

A game of color contrast, looks perfect on wrought iron gates

If the question of how to paint forged products yourself is more or less clear, then what paints to use, this question is much more complicated and extensive. If you do not pay due attention to it, then you will have to repaint the product annually, especially if it is located on the street.

Today, there are a lot of paints specialized for metal (see Types of paints for metal: which one to choose), and each of them has its own unique set of qualities, and such a variety only confuses an inexperienced person even more. We will not dwell on the entire range presented in modern hardware stores.

And let's talk only about the most popular and as a result quality materials, designed specifically for metal surfaces, taking into account the fact that the product will be used outdoors and constantly exposed to negative effects.

hammer paint

Hammer paint, or hammer effect paint (see Hammer effect paint: features of use) is so named for the similarity of the coating with ruts from hammer blows to metal. The embossed surface of the paint perfectly hides all the small flaws and flaws that inevitably happen on a forged product, especially if we are talking about a real one. hand forged, and not about stamping on machines. Instructions for applying hammer paint involves working with any convenient tool.

It can be:

• Airbrush.
• roller.
• Brush.
• Tampon.

It all depends on personal skills and preferences, the quality of the coating will not suffer from this at all.

When choosing how to paint the stairs inside the house, you must first of all focus on the material from which it is made.

Finishing wood and metal structures requires radically different approaches, and therefore we will try to consider both options in as much detail as possible.

wooden structures

Paint selection

Ladders made of wood of different species are quite common. And with them, which quite definitely affects the choice of materials for outdoor decoration.

For the processing of wooden stairs can be used:

• Paints - oil, alkyd, urethane-alkyd or water-dispersion. Oil formulations have been used quite rarely lately, and blends based on an alkyd binder (such as Empire or Pesto from Tikkurila) are considered to be the leader among wood pigments. These compounds fit perfectly on the prepared surface and do not form streaks even with a fairly thick application layer.

• Enamels will not only give the stairs an attractive appearance but also protect the material from various external influences. As a rule, enamel compositions are produced on the basis of a colorless varnish, to which a tinting component is added. If you want to choose the most durable coating, then you should pay attention to such compositions as Synteko (Sweden) or Sirca (Italy).

Note!
In the assortment range, you can find both matte and glossy varieties, so you won’t have to limit yourself when planning the design of the room.

• Lucky. They are used when we do not want to hide, but rather emphasize the texture of wood. For interior stairs, it is better to use alcohol-based varnishes, since nitrocellulose materials are quite toxic and bad smell. On the other hand, nitrocellulose-based varnish is perfect choice to protect wood in contact with precipitation.

• A compromise between varnishing and painting can be the use of tinting compounds. As a rule, structures made of pine and other species that have light shade: color components that are added to a clear varnish emphasize the beauty natural wood.
• Can be applied over varnish special composition- polish. These products are designed to enhance the shine of lacquered wood, and therefore they are most often treated with stringers (side load-bearing parts) and stair railings. But polishing the steps is not worth it - they will become slippery!

Finishing preparation

When painting an internal staircase to the second floor, made of wood, it is necessary to follow the technology. And the most important is preparatory stage, since it depends on the quality of these operations how the paint will lay down, and how firmly it will hold.

The preparation itself is carried out as follows:

• At the first stage, we execute. Our task is to cut off all the bumps and remove splinters.

Advice!
If the structure was made of wood with a high resin content, they must be removed.
Pine stairs are deresined by impregnating them with a 25% acetone solution.
Wash surfaces after treatment hot water and then dry thoroughly.

• After that, we proceed to putty. Using a special mass for wood processing, we fill all the cracks and recesses on the surfaces.

• When the putty is completely dry, proceed to the final sanding. The purpose of this step is to obtain perfectly smooth surfaces, which will then be painted.
• If necessary, we prime the stairs, after which we paint or varnish in several layers.

metal stairs

We select the composition

A staircase made of metal can also be painted with your own hands.

For this, the following compositions are used:

• Enamels based on alkyd. One of the best options: the composition is easy to apply and forms a strong film that reliably protects the bearing elements from corrosion. In addition, after polymerization, alkyd enamel acquires a characteristic, very attractive sheen.

Note!
These funds are quite toxic, therefore, when painting internal stairs, it is worth taking care of the ventilation of the room.

• Nitro paints in cans. Very easy to use, but quite expensive and very poisonous. Automotive varieties can also be used, but in this case the cost of finishing the stairs will be very significant.
• Oil paints. The advantages of such compositions are a rather low price and relatively low consumption. But oil paint dries for a long time, and the strength of the coating is clearly insufficient for intensive use.

• Water-dispersed pigments. Recently, quite a few acrylic paints have appeared on the market, oriented to use on iron or steel structures. In terms of strength, such coatings are somewhat inferior to alkyd enamels, but they are much easier to use.
• If you need to paint an old staircase, then you should purchase a special compound for painting rust.. Zinga electrically conductive paint is also perfect for restoring a worn structure: due to the high content of zinc ions, this composition simultaneously acts as a decorative and anti-corrosion coating.
• In the decoration of industrial buildings, fire-retardant paints for metal Polistil, Phoenix, FIREGUARD, etc. are widely used. When heated, these compounds increase in volume and reliably insulate bearing structures stairs (kosoura and supports) from the effects of flame.

We are preparing the design

As in the case of a wooden staircase, a metal one must be carefully prepared for finishing.

• At the first stage, we remove large accumulations of rust from the surfaces. It is convenient to do this with a spatula.

Advice!
Old paint should also be removed.
Attempts to paint the stairs with a second layer usually lead to the fact that the material begins to crumble after a few months of operation.

• Then we take grinder with a brush attachment, and clean the entire staircase to a shine. We pay special attention to the treatment of welds, since it is there that corrosion processes are usually activated.
• After stripping, we dedust the metal, and then degrease it with organic solvents.
• The next step is the primer. The most qualitative result is provided by the use of insulating primers with anti-corrosion components.

• After complete polymerization of the primer, you can start painting. We apply decorative material either with the help of, and on the steps - with a roller.

Conclusion

As you can see, it is not enough to choose the right way to paint the stairs in the house. To obtain a durable, reliable and beautiful finish, it is also worth observing the processing technology. And it, in turn, depends both on the purchased paint and on the material from which the structure is made. The video in this article contains additional practical recommendations that will be very useful to anyone who decides to take on this job.

The range of the modern market of paints and varnishes is striking in its diversity, and therefore, each master will be able to choose the material for every taste and budget. Recently, the demand for decorative coatings has increased markedly, among which hammer paint stands apart, distinguished by its unique characteristics. It has nothing to do with the instrument of the same name, with the exception of a decorative texture with the effect of hand hammer chasing, which is created on the painted surface after it dries. You will need hammer paint if, in the process of repairing or developing a design project for a room, you are faced with the need to paint metal structures. It is in this case that experts advise to pay attention to the hammer effect paint, which has high anti-corrosion characteristics, thanks to which it can be applied directly to rust, without prior cleaning or priming the surface. But this does not mean at all that it can only be used for processing metal surfaces; hammer effect paint is excellent for painting wooden surfaces, industrial and domestic purposes, due to its high resistance to environmental factors. How to paint with hammer paint? - the first question that interests novice masters who first encountered this type of decorative paintwork. This process is not as complicated as it seems, and in case of strict observance of all technological instructions, you can carry it out without resorting to the help of specialists. Recommendations for painting the surface with hammer paint, as well as its features and advantages, will be discussed in this material.

Hammer paint: general information about the material

Hammer effect coatings were first discovered in the USSR, when they began to be successfully used for painting industrial equipment, laboratory equipment, photographic enlargers and other state property. At this time, manufacturers of paints and varnishes did not complicate their task by searching for a variety of color solutions and used the cheapest gray pigment, as a result of which laboratory equipment and most accurate measuring instruments were grey. The popularity of this paintwork material was due to its anti-corrosion characteristics, high resistance to weathering, as well as mechanical damage, which today is successfully used by modern craftsmen when painting automotive parts, in particular the body. Despite the fact that later experts drew attention to the operational advantages of hammer paint and began to develop a wide palette of color pigments, the growth in popularity of this coating is facilitated by a kind of restraint and coldness of its perception, which prevails due to the presence of a “hammer effect”.

Composition and features of hammer paint

Hammer paint is a material specially developed for the protective and decorative finishing of furniture and other metal structures, forged products and mechanisms, which are operated under conditions of sudden temperature changes and other specific industrial atmospheres. In the process of making hammer paint, acrylic, epoxy and alkyd-styrene components are used, due to the presence of which the paint acquires its specific characteristics. Due to the inclusion of silicone resins and metallic pigments in the composition of the paint, the final coating acquires the highest resistance to aggressive environmental factors and successfully fits on the painted surface. The functional significance of the pigments in the composition of the paint does not end there. In addition to their direct purpose, they increase the density of the paint, due to which they acquire high anti-corrosion characteristics.

Additional strength of the treated surface is given by the fillers included in the hammer paint - fine glass, aluminum powder, as well as other components with anti-corrosion properties. They not only increase the adhesive characteristics of the composition and the strength of the painted surface, but also give it an original texture, reminiscent of "hand hammer chasing". The specified decorative effect allows you to hide the irregularities of the processed metal surface, due to which the defects that occur when the main layer of paint is damaged and their local tinting become almost imperceptible. The composition of the paint also includes "aluminum flakes", which create an additional patterned pattern, and silicones, which stabilize the texture of the painted surface and enhance its water-repellent characteristics.

Photo hammer paint

The main advantages of hammer paint

Hammer paint is characterized by a number of specific advantages, which are primarily due to its composition. Let's consider the main ones:

• One of the main advantages of hammer paint is a high operating temperature range, the upper threshold of which can reach 80 degrees;
• If you plan to apply hammer paint directly to rust, there is no need for preparatory measures, which greatly simplifies the process of applying paint and varnish material;
• Fast drying time is another advantage that craftsmen using hammer effect paints need to be aware of. If you use a quick-drying compound, 2 hours after applying it, the paint will dry so much that it stops sticking when touched, which is especially true for those who paint the car body;
• Hammer enamel is characterized by resistance to weathering, temperature and humidity changes, as well as vibrational fluctuations, which allows it to be used for painting industrial equipment, as well as household and building metal structures;
• The protective properties of hammer paint for metal provide protection of metal structures from corrosion for 8 years;
• There are separate modification varieties of hammer enamel, which are resistant to elevated temperatures. Currently, they are in demand no less than specialized fire-retardant paints for metal surfaces, which are very much in demand today and are used to decorate armored doors and fireproof safes;

• Despite the fact that hammer enamel contains a minimum amount of toxic components, after drying they become environmentally friendly and completely harmless to humans, which allows them to be used for painting indoor surfaces. Lack of smell is another advantage due to which hammer enamel can be used for interior work;
• A rich color palette of hammer paint allows you to purchase a paintwork material of the required shade;
• Color stability. Manufacturers claim that the hammer enamel color shade will not change for at least three years;
• Due to the presence of dirt-repellent properties, the surface treated with hammer paint will be less contaminated.

Scope of hammer paint

In most cases, hammer paint is used to paint metal arbors, fences and gates, due to their high anti-corrosion properties. In addition to high protective properties, hammer enamel is characterized by a rather attractive appearance, due to which it gives decorative characteristics to the appearance of any metal product. The most attractive after painting with hammer enamel are forged products, which, after painting, acquire shine and original texture. However, the scope of hammer paint is not limited to painting small architectural forms in landscape design, since it can be used not only on outdoors but also indoors. By applying hammer paint, you create an effective anti-corrosion barrier for products with a galvanized or steel surface, as well as products made from non-ferrous metals. In this regard, most often hammer enamel is used for staining:

• Production equipment and casings of machine tools;
• Cases of electrical appliances, electrical panels and other specialized equipment;
• Metal structures for construction purposes;
• Office metal furniture designed for offices, as well as cabinets and safes;
• Machinery and equipment for agricultural purposes;
• Metal fences, fences and gates;

• Used to paint downpipes, weather vanes, flagpoles and fittings, as well as garden tools;
• In addition, hammer enamel can be applied to products made of hard plastic, which is used for the production of sewers, as decorative coating;
• Suitable for staining glass and tile products.

Popular Hammer Enamel Manufacturers: Hammerite Metal Paint

Enamel with a hammer effect is a fairly popular paint and varnish material, which can be purchased at any hardware store that offers products not only from imported, but also from domestic brands. Despite the fact that the latter are much cheaper, they are in no way inferior in quality to products. foreign manufacturers. Of course, products of many manufacturers, both domestic and foreign, are represented on the market of paints and varnishes; Hammerite hammer paint is the most popular among consumers, which in its class surpasses similar compositions in many ways. Experts believe that the popularity of the foreign brand Hammerite is due to the fact that, like no other paint, it allows you to work with raw surfaces. And since most consumers simply don't have the time or inclination to pre-prepare the surface in today's lifestyles, they prefer to buy a hammer paint designed to paint a raw surface.

Hammerite Hammer Paint is a unique invention that in a short period of time allows not only to improve the appearance of a heavily rusted surface, but also protects the coating from further corrosion. All Hammerite paints and varnishes are fast drying and can be applied to the surface without prior preparation.

Important! Despite the fact that before surface treatment with hammer metal paint Hammerite, it does not need preliminary preparation, experts assure that if a primer is applied in advance, the protection of the metal surface will be even more reliable.

Application of Hammerite paint: key features

• The range of operating temperatures at which surface painting can be carried out is between +10 and +25 degrees;
• Rainy and foggy weather is a reason to categorically refuse to use Hammerite paint, since the maximum allowable air humidity at which the surface can be painted with hammer paint is 85%;
• Despite the fact that the drying of the paint takes from one to one and a half hours, the final drying and hardening of the surface will occur only after 14 days from the day the paint was applied;
• For those who want to achieve a distinct hammer effect, experts recommend applying enamel in at least 5 layers, while applying each subsequent layer is carried out 8 hours after applying the previous one;
• Masters often ask the question: "How to dilute hammer paint?" According to experts, in order for the paint to retain its original characteristics, it must be diluted only with branded thinners;
• If you want to improve the reliability of the coating, do not neglect its pre-treatment.

Hammer paint: application instructions

Due to the fact that hammer paint is used as an anti-corrosion and decorative coating and is applied to different types surfaces, including those affected by rust, the technique of applying paint varies depending on the type of surface and the degree of its damage. Consider the procedure for the most common situations.

Preparatory activities: what to look for?

In the process of applying paint to a new and smooth metal, it is necessary to carry out its preliminary preparation. It consists in removing the factory grease that covers the surface of the metal. To do this, the surface is washed 2-3 times with a fatty solvent (white spirit or solvent), after which it is wiped with a volatile solvent - acetone. After processing, check its quality. To do this, it is enough to blot it with filter paper: in case of greasy spots on it, the treatment must be repeated. If the surface is smooth and shiny, it must be treated with sandpaper or a wire brush to increase its adhesive characteristics;

Due to the fact that hammer paint can be applied on old paintwork, as it is compatible with all types of coatings (with the exception of bituminous and powder paints), the previously painted surface also does not need complex preparatory measures before applying hammer paint. It is enough to remove the peeling paint with a metal brush and rinse the surface with a solution washing powder necessary to remove all existing contaminants. The surface is then washed clean water and dry thoroughly;

Hammer paint can be used on galvanized, aluminum, stainless steel and non-ferrous metal surfaces. Before processing such surfaces, a preliminary application of primer for non-ferrous metals is carried out on them;

In the case of applying hammer paint on wooden surfaces, carry out their pre-treatment with a water-borne acrylic primer, which is necessary in order to prevent the penetration of paint into the pores and create the proper hammer effect;

Although hammer paint adheres reliably to firmly adhering rust, stopping its further development by attacking it with fatty acids and corrosion inhibitors, it is clear that flaking and loose rust must be removed with a wire brush.

Parameters and methods of applying hammer paint

The application of hammer paint is carried out at a temperature of +10 to +25 degrees and a relative humidity of no more than 85%. Paint application can be done by brush, roller, aerosol can, pneumatic and airless spray. At the same time, it is important to observe the thickness of the applied layer, which must be at least 100 microns, which is the most favorable thickness for reliable anti-corrosion protection. Consider the main methods of applying hammer paint:

Brush painting. The most popular method used in the case of processing small surfaces, as well as for painting metal fences, characterized by a complex configuration. In accordance with the instructions offered by the manufacturer, hammer paint must be applied in 2-3 layers, giving Special attention staining of corners and edges that are most susceptible to corrosive processes. In the case of working with complex or vertical surfaces, if possible, they are transferred to a horizontal position and at least 3-4 layers of hammer paint are applied. Responsible decorative work is best done with brushes with natural bristles;

Roller painting- a method that is practiced when painting large flat surfaces. Before applying the paint, it is diluted with a proprietary solvent in a ratio of 9: 1 and the resulting composition is applied using a short-haired fur or wool roller. At the same time, the paint is first applied in the corners and edges, and only then on the rest of the surface;

Aerosol can, with which you can also apply paint, is used when processing small surfaces and in the case of touching up small defects. Before carrying out work, the aerosol can must be shaken for 3 minutes after you hear the sound of a mixing ball. Due to the fact that you will not be able to control the supply and consumption of paint, it is applied in 3-4 thin layers at a distance of 15-20 cm. The first layer is kept for 2-3 minutes, while between applying subsequent layers they are kept within 15-20 minutes;

Pneumatic spraying- a method used for processing large surfaces. When spraying paint in this way, it is important to choose the right viscosity. In accordance with the instructions, for this, the paint is diluted with a solvent in a ratio of 2: 1. This ratio works at temperatures from +18 to +22 degrees. In case of exceeding given threshold, the viscosity is selected for themselves, and in this case, the use of a larger amount of solvent is required, which will prevent cobweb formation. At temperatures below +17, the paint may run off the surface, which indicates that the amount of solvent must be reduced. If you do not have a device for determining viscosity - a viscometer, it is determined by eye. To achieve the greatest hammer effect, the so-called "zero layer" is applied, which is a thin layer that is kept for 2-3 minutes, after which subsequent layers are applied. The final layer should be the thickest;

Airless spray- a method used for processing large surfaces. The paint is diluted with a factory thinner in a ratio of 9: 1, after which the sprayer is thoroughly shaken to achieve a uniform paint consistency.

hammer paint how to paint video

Having learned once how much it costs to paint the stairs, many decide to master this skill on their own. It is not surprising that all stair work is not cheap, because. to achieve a long-term and beautiful result, they require strict adherence to technology. Having once painted your staircase in the house or on the street, you will gain invaluable experience, thanks to which you will also be able to restore the coating with your own hands after many years. In addition, all painting work with the selection of colors of paint and varnish is quite interesting and does not require special physical strength.

Need to paint stairs

Stairs made of wood, as well as stairs made of metal and other materials, are subject to many external influences, which, in the absence of proper protection, quickly render them unusable. Firstly, these are constant mechanical effects from walking up the stairs and holding the handrails. Not surprisingly, it is the steps and flights of stairs that wear out and get dirty the fastest. It is these areas that need to be given special attention when applying finish coat. The duration of its use without restoration depends on how to paint the steps of the stairs. Secondly, the ladder, wherever it is, is subject to fluctuations in humidity and temperature, which over time can affect its strength and appearance. If the sun's rays fall on wooden steps, it is also important to protect them from drying out.

How to paint the stairs in the house

When choosing a coating for a staircase, one should take into account the type of wood from which it is made, the color of the wood and the conditions for the location of the stairs. So, conifers (pine, spruce, fir) tend to emit resins that impair the adhesion of wood to paints and varnishes. Hardwoods are deprived of this property, and there is nothing to fear with them. In addition, the needles non-uniformly absorb the liquid part of the paint or varnish. Looser wood absorbs more, while dense and old wood absorbs less, which is why paints and varnishes must be applied in many layers.

Paints

When choosing what color to paint the stairs in, it is worth choosing a shade as close to natural as possible so as not to spoil the natural appearance of the breed. Choosing what color to paint the stairs, you should decide on the type of paint. pigmented Decoration Materials they are good because they hide many shortcomings during assembly, under them the stairs can be putty. But, at the same time, many of the external advantages of natural wood are also hidden under a layer of paint.

Provided that the stairs are located inside the house, where there are few adverse effects, they will come down oil paints on artificial drying oil or even cellulose coatings. If the staircase is external, you only need paint on natural drying oil. Tikkurila Empire alkyd paint is suitable for painting stairs with your own hands, because. it is easy to apply with a brush. Betolux and Pesto paints also lie evenly on wooden surfaces without smudges. Urethane-alkyd paint Betolux is ideal for previously painted surfaces, but it is not sufficiently resistant to wear with frequent use, and is not suitable for crowded rooms. Pesto alkyd paint is more durable and suitable for damp rooms or rooms that require frequent cleaning, such as a nursery.

Lucky

Colorless varnishes are good because they do not hide, but emphasize the natural texture of wood. Their advantage is also that they dry very quickly and are easy to apply. There are alcohol-based varnishes and nitrocellulose varnishes. The former are a resin in an organic solvent, and are used exclusively for internal stairs, because. the film during hardening of such a coating is not sufficiently frost and moisture resistant. If you plan to varnish a street ladder, use a nitrocellulose material containing colloxylin and plasticizers that strengthen the coating.

The most established varnish manufacturers on the market are Parade and Trae Lyx. German-made Parade lacquer is highly wear-resistant and easy to use due to quick drying. Also, it does not have such a sharp pungent odor as some others. Trae Lyx Dutch lacquers are even more durable and wear resistant, because their solid component is 35%. This property allows them to be easily used to cover the steps of public buildings. This varnish is absolutely transparent, uniformly covers the surface, without changing the degree of gloss at different angles of view. And despite so many advantages, it still has one drawback, namely a long drying time. Full load on the steps can be given only 7 days after application.

polishes

After applying varnish or paint, steps may still not have a finished look. To make the tree sparkle, shimmer in the sun, it can be covered with varnishes. The color of the varnish is selected to match the color of the wood, but in such a way as not to darken the breed. Polish is applied with a brush or rag, before that the surface is cleaned. Nitro-based polishes are applied only to nitrocellulose varnishes and paints.

enamels

They simultaneously give the desired color to the stairs, and protect it from adverse effects due to the formation of a dense film. Enamel is obtained by mixing colorless varnish with pigment. The enamel is applied with an aerosol, and its contents must be thoroughly mixed before spraying. In a calm form, the enamel is a substance of a gel-like consistency. After stirring by shaking, it becomes liquid. Inside the aerosol are special metal balls that shake the material.

Italian enamel Sirca is characterized by high surface strength and resistance to yellowing. Enamels of this brand are produced both glossy and matte. Fast drying in 60 minutes and sufficient working time makes it easy to cover the stairs with such enamel yourself. Swedish varnishes and enamels Synteko have proven themselves well. They are suitable for those who are trying to make their home as environmentally friendly as possible. this company does not add NMP polymers that are harmful to humans in paint and varnish products.

Impregnation

Impregnations such as stain or Pinotex not only give the tree color, they have antiseptic and fire-repellent properties. And on top of them you can apply any finishing varnish. It is best to use oil or wax based impregnations for stairs, especially if you are working with them for the first time. It is these impregnations that can be applied in several layers, without fear of smearing or making a stain, unlike alcohol and nitro impregnations, which are instantly absorbed. Impregnations can be sold in the form of a ready-made solution or powder, which must be diluted with water yourself. In addition, you do not need a spray gun or spray gun to apply the oil stain, it is easy to do with a brush.

How to paint stairs with your own hands

Surface preparation

In order for the surface of the steps to be even, they are puttied and polished. Putties are selected according to the color of the tree. After drying, proceed to grinding with sandpaper or cycles. After the first sanding, a break of several days is taken to allow the pile to rise, and then they are sanded clean. Before applying paint, the surface is primed, applying primer to all surfaces 2 times.

Painting

It is important to know what and how to paint the stairs. It is best to apply paint or stain-type impregnation with a spray gun. There are pneumatic and electric sprayers, with their help the layer is applied more evenly. But if there is no sprayer, you can use ordinary brushes. For thicker, stretchier, slower-drying paints, bristle brushes are preferred. For liquid coatings, flat soft hair brushes are best suited. They are also called flutes. The length of the hair of such a brush should be about twice larger diameter. To apply thick paint, the length of the bristles should be shorter, and for liquid paints - more. When working, the brush should be held at an angle of 45 degrees to the surface to be coated. To clean the brush of paint at the end of the work, you can dip it in turpentine or a special solvent.

Even experienced craftsmen do not know how to properly paint the stairs, because. the result is always evaluated purely subjectively. Not everyone knows that the coating is applied in 2-3 layers only after the previous one has completely dried. With a brush, the impregnation is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the step so that there are no special streaks. First, one side of the step is painted, then, turning over, impregnation is applied to the reverse side. At the same time, it is necessary to cover the entire step evenly before the coating dries, so that there are no visible smudges. To flip wooden step it was easier, and the impregnation was less smeared, it is convenient to use wooden coasters. If the first layer of paint or varnish is applied along the grain of the wood, then the second must be applied across. The third layer is again applied along, so the step is painted over most carefully. Do not forget to mix the paint periodically, this will protect you from the formation of lumps and sediment at the bottom.

Lacquering

Lacquer coating on wood should be carried out in the cleanest possible room so that dust does not settle on the freshly varnished coating. Before application, the step or baluster itself is also thoroughly cleaned and polished. If the wood has a defect, then under the varnish it can also be carefully puttied using putty in the color of the wood. Wide parts are varnished with a spray gun, and narrow parts with a thin brush. When working with varnishes, it is important to protect the skin of the hands and respiratory organs from the ingress of toxic substances.

Stairs are very sensitive to impact environment. Coating is adversely affected even plain water, but often when cleaning, various detergents are used. It must be borne in mind that all materials, be it wood, metal or concrete, have their weaknesses and can be damaged during operation. Even those stairs that are indoors are exposed to changes in humidity, temperature fluctuations, and sunlight.

If you do not take care of surface protection in time, external factors will significantly reduce the life of the product. by the most effective way to prevent material aging is to cover the stairs with enamel, varnish, paint and stain. Depending on certain conditions, you can choose one or another paintwork. Let's figure out how to cover the stairs for you.

Oil paints

When choosing paint, consider the design of the room. The staircase should be in harmony with the interior, and not contradict in any way. Alkyd paints are easy to apply, urethane-alkyd paints are great for already painted surfaces, and pigmented paints will hide minor defects.

Paints are divided into thickened, sold in the form of a powder, which must be dissolved with drying oil, and ready for use. Drying oil can be artificial or natural. Artificial varnishes are cheaper, but give a lower quality coating.

For painting internal products, which will experience only mechanical stress, paint for stairs on artificial drying oil is suitable. If it is supposed to process a street structure, then mixtures are needed exclusively on a natural basis;

Lacquer for stairs

If you want to paint the flight of stairs and at the same time emphasize the beauty of natural wood, then you better buy a varnish for stairs. Most of them dry quickly and are easy to apply. To decide what kind of varnish to cover a wooden staircase, pay attention to the conditions of its operation and the type of wood from which the product is made.

Oil varnishes

is a mixture vegetable oils with artificial or natural resins, such as oil-rosin varnishes. When dry, the varnish forms a hard layer of yellowish color. Due to the low resistance to external factors, oil varnishes are used for painting stairs installed inside the house.

Alcohol varnishes

When alcohol interacts with natural resins, such as sandarac and shellac, varnishes are obtained with a concentration of 30-45%. Due to the high rate of weathering of alcohol and the low rate of dissolution of resins, it is possible to apply several layers without destroying the previous ones. Coatings with excellent resistance to mechanical damage and adhesion to most materials are obtained. The treated surfaces are well polished, but have low water resistance.

To date, oil and alcohol varnishes are produced in small volumes, since their production requires expensive natural raw materials. As a rule, they are used in special cases, for example, to cover musical instruments.

Alkyd varnishes

The films are transparent, hard, with a slight tint. Have good adhesion to many surfaces, waterproof. They are used for both outdoor and indoor stairs. In everyday life, alkyd varnishes are often confused with oil varnishes - this is wrong, because, although vegetable oils are used in the production of alkyd resins, which have a serious impact on the characteristics of the final product, but in terms of chemical and qualitative composition alkyd varnishes differ from oil varnishes and significantly surpass them in properties.

Cellulose nitrate varnishes

Nitro-varnishes cover the surface with a dense, almost colorless, quick-drying film. Usually nitro-varnishes are used for varnishing wooden stairs. However, in some cases, they are used to paint a metal product, applying the last layer. Cellulose nitrate varnishes are great for indoor use, less often they are used for protection from natural factors.

Polyester varnishes

Surely, many have applied the epithet "polished" to the shiny surfaces of wooden fittings - this is the result of applying polyester varnishes. These protective coatings for wood are multi-component mixtures and require special precision. Polyester varnishes do not shrink, because the solvent does not evaporate during the curing process, but polymerizes with the dissolved resin; form solid thick films resistant to water and other reagents.

Based on them, high-quality automotive putties are produced.

Epoxy varnishes

They are used with special hardeners, the volume of which depends on the type of resin and the nature of the hardener itself. Epoxy varnishes are distinguished by increased resistance to water and alkalis, compatibility with other coatings and mechanical strength, however, they remain insufficiently weather resistant.

Polyurethane varnishes

They are characterized by exceptional mechanical strength and high wear resistance. Probably the best lacquer for stairs. Polyurethane coatings are expensive, but outstanding performance characteristics and extended term services offset the high cost. For example, parquet floors, stairs and fittings in the halls of museums and palaces, which are of artistic value, are covered with these varnishes.

Water-based polyurethane varnish refers to innovative developments. It combines the environmental friendliness of acrylic varnishes and the strength of polyurethane. Water-based varnishes are inferior to pure polyurethane, but the use of special additives significantly improves performance.

For varnishing large areas, a sprayer is useful, and if the stairs are small, then a wide brush will do.

Some varnishes are durable, resistant to wear, absolutely transparent and do not have a strong odor, but at the same time they have one significant drawback: it will be possible to use the stairs treated with this coating only a week after painting. If you are not satisfied with this prospect, use another paintwork that is also wear-resistant, but dries almost instantly. Naturally, it will cost more or be inferior to the first in a number of other characteristics.

enamels

Enamels are obtained by mixing coloring pigments and varnishes, combining the advantages of both materials. Enamels, like varnishes, envelop the surface with a shiny protective film, and, like paints, give a certain color. However, the enamel is destroyed by water, which is why it is almost never used to cover stairs.

There are glyptal, oil, nitro enamels and other types of enamels. Depending on the type of varnish added, you can get a glossy, matte or semi-gloss surface.

Stains and impregnations

Mordant is a kind of impregnation, which also has antiseptic properties. After treatment with a stain, the tree becomes non-flammable. Sometimes, a layer of varnish is still applied on top. In this case, care must be taken to ensure that the stain and varnish for the stairs are compatible with each other.

When choosing a stain, it must be remembered that under its action the wood darkens slightly, the color becomes more saturated. For an inexperienced craftsman who decides what varnish to cover a wooden staircase with, wax or oil-based impregnations can be recommended, which can be applied in several layers. There are also alcohol impregnations and nitro impregnations.

Oil for stairs

To date, oils are produced using modern technologies and have a base of wax and natural vegetable oils. The product contains:

• jojoba oil;
• sunflower oil;
• linseed oil;
• candelilla wax;
• carnauba wax;
• beeswax.

Oils for painting stairs are a worthy replacement for traditional varnish. The material is deeply absorbed into the surface, forming a protective coating for wood, withstands significant loads and highlights the texture of wood. The surface of the steps acquires excellent performance characteristics. In addition, the oil has good bactericidal properties: tree fungi and mold do not form on the treated surface. Suitable for use in high traffic areas.

Advantages:

• ease of application;
• has water-repellent properties;
• suitable for local repairs;
• increases the level of wear resistance;
• no unpleasant odor;
• is an environmentally friendly product.

After you have decided how to paint the stairs, you can proceed directly to the processing of the material. If you do not have sufficient experience, seek the help of professionals, but remember that this will affect the final cost. If you are going to do everything yourself, then let's take a closer look at how to paint a wooden staircase.

How to paint a wooden staircase

The surface must be prepared before painting. The painting technology largely depends on the type of wood, on whether you want to hide the texture of the tree or, on the contrary, highlight it, and what exactly you decided to cover the flight of stairs with.

Preparatory work

If dense staining is expected, then the surface of the stairs must be carefully cleaned and covered with putty, which will hide all chips. Then the wood is polished, and the work is carried out in two stages with a break of several days. This is how the maximum result is achieved. After that, a primer is applied.

If painting has been done before, try applying urethane-alkyd paint to a small area. If the layer lies evenly, does not exfoliate or warp, then you can continue. Otherwise, you will have to remove the old paint. To do this, use a flush composition. Alternatively, you can try heating the wood with a blow dryer and then scraping the paint off with a spatula.

Deresining of coniferous wood

Coniferous stairs, such as pine, require special attention. This material, due to its cheapness and ease of processing, is very popular, but requires additional processing - deresining. It is necessary for several reasons:

• the protruding resin creates a sticky film that prevents the absorption of the protective composition;
• places where resin accumulates darken and look ugly;
• because of the resin, the product is painted unevenly and of poor quality.

Wood deresining is a process of wood surface treatment for the purpose of complete or partial removal of excess resin. Basically, various solvents are used for deresining. For pine the best choice there will be a 25% solution of technical acetone, which should be applied with a brush, and then rinse the treated surface warm water and dry thoroughly. Too large tarred places will have to be cut with a knife and patched with putty.

Listed below are the components that make up the deresin solution.

1. hot water - 1 l;
2. potash - 50 grams;
3. baking soda - 45-50 grams;
4. soap flakes - 30-40 grams;
5. acetone - 200 grams;
6. alcohol - 10 grams;

Further painting of pine stairs is possible only after the tree is completely dry.

Painting a wooden staircase with your own hands

It is important to know not only what, but also how to paint the stairs. It is best to apply paint and varnish coatings with a spray gun. There are electric and pneumatic sprayers. With their help, you can cover the product with an even layer. But if this device is not available, ordinary wide brushes will do. With thick and slow-drying paints, it is recommended to work with brushes with a short and hard bristle. For more fluid finishes, use soft hair brushes, also called flute brushes. The brush should be held at a 45 degree angle to the work surface. To clean the brush, soak it in solvent or turpentine.

The paint coating should be applied in 2-3 layers, evenly distributing over the entire surface of the product. First paint one side, then turn over and cover the other side. In this case, it is necessary to have time to paint the entire surface before the coating dries, so that there are no bumps and smudges. In order to make it more convenient to work, and the paint or varnish is not smeared, it is necessary to adapt wooden stands. And periodically stirring the paint, you will prevent the appearance of lumps and sediment.

1. When deciding how to cover the steps, keep in mind that it is better not to use glossy enamels, as the painted surface will become slippery. If you decide to use varnish for stairs, then give preference to matte or semi-matte finishes that will hide the flaws;
2. If you know how to properly paint a wooden staircase, then it is not a secret for you that the paintwork must be applied in three layers. The first layer of paint is applied along the structure of the tree, then across the fibers and again along. Each subsequent layer is applied only after the previous one has dried;
3. In the case when long-drying varnishes or paints are used, and there is no spare lift, it is recommended to apply wooden stairs varnish through the step. So you will be able to operate it, although it is not very convenient;
4. Before you paint or varnish the stairs, make sure that not only the steps and railings shine clean, but the whole room is cleaned. Otherwise, the dust will settle on a dry surface and spoil all the work.

How to paint a metal staircase

In a private house there is sure to be a metal staircase, the durability of which largely depends on protective coating. Therefore, you need to know how and with what to paint the stairs.

In this case preparatory work come down to rust removal. For this, a grinder with a hard wire brush, sandpaper or special solvents can be used.

After the rust is removed, the metal surface is degreased and coated with a primer. The stairs can only be painted after the primer is completely dry. Places where there was rust, it is recommended to handle especially carefully.

If you are working on a ladder that has welded seams, be sure to sand them to a shine.

Coating metal stairs should be highly resistant to abrasion and environmental influences. Choosing the right enamel or paint , proceed directly to the application of paintwork. If the staircase has been previously painted, coat a small area. If, after drying, the paint lies well and the old layer does not shine through it, you can continue to work. If the quality does not satisfy you, the old paint will have to be removed.

The painting of the steps should be carried out very carefully, usually twice as many layers are applied to them as to other elements.

Painting a concrete staircase

Painting concrete not only gives the product a more attractive appearance, but also protects the surface from premature wear, damage, and weathering.

The following options are possible:

1. adding coloring pigments to the concrete mixture;
2. painting a finished staircase, as in the case of a wooden or metal structure.

In the first case, special pigments are used that are resistant to moisture and sunlight. To achieve cleaner tones, it is recommended to use white concrete. This method allows you to get a more saturated color and uniform coverage. The disadvantage is the high cost, laboriousness and inability to use ready-made concrete stairs.

The second option provides that flights of stairs are covered with special paints for concrete:

• one;
• acrylic;
• polyurethane.

At the stage of preliminary preparation, the stairs are sanded to eliminate irregularities and primed to ensure better adhesion to the surface. And then, having decided what color to paint the stairs, you apply the coating to the steps with a wide roller with a medium length pile.