Trim Conversion for Indianapolis Homes

If you own a home built before 2000 you may have stained wood trim in your home. A great way to change the look of your home to a more modern look is converting that wood trim to a painted color. We offer trim installation, painting, and repairs as part of our line of interior painting services. There are many steps involved in completing this transformation outlined below.

Step 1: Before any work can be started proper set up is key. To prevent paint drops on your floors or marks on your walls use a high quality painters tape framing out the trim to be converted. The use of plastic or canvas drop clothes on your floors will not only protect your floors from paint drops but will also catch any debris made sanding during the following steps.

Step 2: Do a light scuff sand to all areas to be converted. You are not looking to sand the finish completely down, just enough to put scuff the trim so the primer will properly adhere. This step will also help to de-gloss the current finish.

Step 3: Apply one coat of primer. I would recommend Extreme Bond Primer from Sherwin Williams. This primer is formulated for this type of work. In some cases, and oil-based primer is also a good option.

Step 4: Complete another light scuff sand.

Step 5: Apply one coat of top coat paint. I would recommend Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel in semi-gloss, but any “trim” paint will work.

Step 6: Complete another light scuff sand.

Step 7: Apply one more top coat of trim paint and admire your hard work!

As you can see, trim conversion is a lot of work. It takes a lot of patience and time, but the finished look is beautiful.

Of course if the above steps seem daunting do not hesitate to call CertaPro Painters of Indianapolis to set up a free estimate. We have have done hundreds of conversions and would love to do yours.