Cleaners & Additives

Using a dedicated cleaning product is the best way to save your favorite brushes from the trash heap. For water-based paints, simply pour the solution into a small jar and suspend the bristles so they don’t touch the bottom. Agitate the brush gently to work the liquid into the “heel” – where the bristles meet the metal ferrule – as this is where dried paint usually causes the most trouble. After soaking, rinse the brush under lukewarm water until it runs clear. This method is far more effective than just using soap, as it dissolves the specific binders that keep the paint stuck to the fibers, ensuring your tools stay soft and ready for the next coat.

Yes, you can find specialized Additives designed to be mixed directly into your paint to prevent mold and mildew growth. These liquid fungicides are particularly useful for bathrooms, kitchens, or shaded exterior walls that don’t get much direct sunlight. You simply stir one small packet or bottle into a gallon of paint before you start rolling. These Chemicals work by creating a surface that is inhospitable to fungal spores, which is a great defense during the humid spring months we often see in the Springfield area. It’s an inexpensive insurance policy that keeps your fresh paint job looking clean and prevents those unsightly black spots from forming over time.