the painted surface

Glossary of Terms

What's that!!! The following definitions of painting terms will help explain some paint terms found on this web site. Write to us to have a paint related term or phrase defined. Ask the Experts We will answer as soon as possible and add the term to our glossary.

angle sash:

refers to a brush with an angled shape which comes to a point to reach corners, a good all purpose brush

brush comb:

a comb with widely spaced, vary sharp teeth, used to clean and sraighten the bristles of paint brushes

china bristle:

natural bristle brush used for applying oil-based coatings only, should not be used with water-based paints, comes in all sizes and qualities, the finer ones produce excellent results

denatured alcohol:

poisonous, an alcohol rendered unfit to drink, used as a thinner for some coatings (shellac,primers), can be used as a final cleaner for brushes used in water-based paints, also used as a test to determine if a paint is water or oil-based

drywall compound:

commonly called drywall mud, a substance about the consistency of cake frosting used to patch over drywall tape, seams and screws, available in a pre-mixed or powder form, use to repair damaged drywall or create a textured surface

eggshell:

a low sheen finish, attractive for interior walls, more durable than flat or matte finish paints

flat:

a no gloss finish paint, may lack washability, may bruise or scuff easily

flat oil:

an oil-based paint having no sheen, not usually used in homes, has a strong odor until the paint has cured and the fumes are exhausted

gloss:

full gloss, will show glare, more so with dark colors, very durable and washable

holiday:

a missed spot when using a roller, the previous color of paint shows through

hot dog roller:

a small diameter roller of varying naps used in many applications, can be used when striping walls, painting tight areas (such as inside shelves or behind a toilet tank), is good for painting small spindles or iron railings, can come with handles up to about 3 feet to extend into areas otherwise unreachable, very useful tool, many uses

lambswool:

used as a covering for rollers, high quality, releases paint well, easy to clean, costs slightly more but very durable

matte:

a dull finish having no gloss, may not be a true flat flat finish depending on the manufacturer

mettalic gold paint:

often used in faux effects or as an accent color, provides a mettalic sheen not available in typical coatings, it is not very durable on exterior surfaces-top coat with a clear exterior grade finish to lengthen its life if used outdoors

mineral spirits:

mineral solvent used for thinning and cleaning oil-based paints and varnishes, can have a strong odor

nylon/polyester:

a synthetic bristle used to make brushes, they vary widely in quality and the best ones are worth the small extra cost, taken care of they last a very long time, some are versatile and can be used in both oil and water-based paints

paint pot:

a work pot, used when actively painting, the large mouth makes it easy to work from, liners are available to help with clean-up

painters glove:

a lined glove with a thick outer nap, often used to paint decorative and ornamental ironwork, could be used on any rough or textured object

putty knife:

a blade of various sizes typically used to apply patching compounds, the flexible type is very useful, a must for every toolbox

red oxide:

a red primer for bare or rusty metal, very good rust inhibiter, use to spot or completely prime ornamental ironwork

satin:

smooth finish with a slight gloss, increased washability over flat, matte or eggshell finish paints

semi-gloss:

medium gloss finish, may show glare especially in dark colors, durable and washable

wire brush, brushing:

a brush made with stainless steel, brass or steel bristles, used to brush away rust on metal objects, can also be used during brush cleaning to help scrape away dried paint, sometimes helpful in removing peeling paint from concrete

Details about specific painting subjects are covered in the following articles. In those will be found details, tips and techniques gathered from over 20 years of painting experience. Here is a list of links to the articles: