9.1 A consistent approach to finishes

9.1.10 Paint 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.

Last updated: 2nd January 2024

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