[Jim McC]

Using a roller, do you prefer to paint your screen while it's vertical(on the wall) or lying on the floor? Which would prevent roller marks better? I'm talking about a 1/2" thick MDF screen, by the way. I'd prefer to leave it on the wall, of course. Thanks.

 

[pb_maxxx]

depends on the make up of the mix you are using...


if it contains polyacrylic (minwax satin) then having the screen lay flat on the ground would help gravity level the individual coats as it's drying...


but since you're working with MDF (ie heavy) and it's likely already attached to the wall... then i'd leave it on the wall.

 

[Jim McC]

Thanks. Briefly, why do some people use satin poly? Is it for more gain?

 

[pb_maxxx]

there are other reasons it's used...


however, the main reasons are:

a) extends the working/drying time of a paint mix.

b) helps to smooth out and self level the paint coats as it dries.

c) add a small amount of sheen to the mix. (slight on-axis gain)

 

[Jim McC]

If you don't care about "C", wouldn't Floetrol work better? A and B are what it's for. Thanks.

 

[pb_maxxx]

well with polyacrylic... a & b don't come without a little bit of c. they aren't mutually exclusive.


with respect to floetrol... it too has it's own caveats.

unless you're working with a one can flat simple paint...

a) it can discolor the mix.

b) cause streaking.

c) introduce unwanted artifacts.


here at avs diy... we find polyacrylic to be more reliable.

 

[Jim McC]

Thanks. I didn't know that.