A consistent approach to finishes

9.1

9.1.10Paint finishes

Painted and varnished surfaces shall be even in appearance and free from conspicuous runs and prominent brush marks

Painted and varnished surfaces should:

  • be reasonably smooth and free from nail holes, cracks and splits
  • have joints filled
  • be reasonably uniform in colour, texture and finish.

Also note:

  • Surfaces should be viewed in daylight from a distance of 2m and not by shining artificial light on the surface. Wall lights and/or uplighters should be switched off.
  • Timber surfaces may show limited raised grain, and the colour and texture may also vary.
  • Drying shrinkage of timber may cause cracking of the paint finish, particularly where joints occur in plaster and woodwork.
  • Where painted surfaces are touched up, minor colour variations may occur.
  • External finishes will dull over time, depending on a number of factors such as exposure to sunlight, rain and pollutants.
  • Resin can exude from knots, causing discoloration of paintwork, even though modern primers contain a compound to limit this.
  • Site-decorated trim, such as architrave and skirting, may have a different finished appearance from factory-finished components, such as doors.