I am using an oil based paint for exterior and interior trim. I have always used latex paints but the oil, in my opinion looks better. I don’t make a living doing this but am trying to get the best look and technique possible. It seems after about 45 minutes that the paint becomes thick and begins to get more difficult to apply (doesn’t glide as easily after a while and leaves more noticable brush marks). I’m working in temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s. I read somewhere, but can’t remember that if you soak the brush a few minutes in paint thinner and soak up the excess before starting painting, it will make for a better result. Thanks for all advice.
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Use Penetrol as a conditioner. It is made by the same people who make Floetrol for latex paint and serves the same purpose. You can find it at the big boxes. I've used it and find that it works real well.
Just concurring with the Penetrol advice. I use it "all the time" when I use oil as I do with latex and Flotrol.
Just makes for a better job and in all actuality costs no more IMO because it just adds more paint to the paint. Hmmmm.
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Dipping the brush in solvent, either water or turps, before dipping into the paint makes the cleanup easier. It keeps the paint from drying deep inside the ferrule.
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