How to Get Coverage Using Red Latex Paint

Don't apply red paint directly over white.

If you'd like to know why red latex paint covers poorly, consider the following. Every color of paint contains a white base. Pigment is added to give the paint color. Most paints contain between 80 to 90 percent white base and 10 to 20 percent color pigment. Red paint contains up to 30 percent pigment. This leads to a thinner paint that does not cover well. If you want to get good coverage while using red latex paint, pretreat the surface with a specific color of tinted primer.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Pressure washer
• Drop cloths
• Dark gray tinted latex primer
• Roller frame
• Nap roller cover
• Roller extension pole
• Red latex paint

Instructions

Preparation

1. Wash external surfaces using a pressure washer. Wait 24 hours for wet surfaces to dry.

2. Dust internal surfaces with a broom.

3. Place drop cloths over cement, carpet, tile or wood floors. Red paint contains pigments that can stain these surfaces. Carefully place the drop cloths so no areas are uncovered.

Application

1. Apply a coat of dark gray latex primer, using a roller. Roll vertically. Let the dark gray primer dry for two hours.

2. Thoroughly wash the roller in a tub or sink.

3. Apply two coats of red latex paint, using the roller. Roll vertically. Let the red paint dry for two hours between coats.

Tips & Warnings

• For best results, choose a red latex paint formulated with a thick base. Ask your local painting store representative to recommend a brand, or choose Dutch Boy, which manufactures a red latex paint with an extra thick base.

• Don't use red tinted primers, as these tend to dry pink. This does little to help with coverage.