If you are preparing to paint your home or business, you want a new look that will POP! Part of producing a stunning, new look is working with first-rate materials.  You have probably given a lot of thought to the colors and types of paint you want to work with, but you should also carefully consider the paintbrushes you use.  With the right paintbrush, you can achieve a creamy, smooth texture that will appeal to the eye as well as the touch, and last for years.

Depending on the quality of your paintbrush, their lifespan can range from a few days up to three to four years! For the standard interior paint brush, there are two types of bristles: synthetic materials—like nylon or polyester—and natural hair.

The lifetime of a paintbrush often depends on the material the paintbrush is being used to spread. For example, the higher quality, natural bristle brushes work best when used with enamels or topcoats (these should never be used with latex-based paints). On the other hand, synthetic brushes will typically hold their shape better and can be used to paint with nearly any material.

While they may be expensive initially, we recommend premium polyester paintbrushes because, with proper care and maintenance, they will last an extended period of time.

Average Lifespan

• Natural Brushes – Made with natural animal hair and used for applying oil-based paints, natural brushes can last 3-5 years with proper care.
• Blended Synthetic Brushes – These brushes are easy to clean and maintain, especially when working with latex paint. These brushes are typically made of nylon and polyester, which offers premium durability and excellent shape retention. These brushes should last you 2-3 years with proper care.
• Polyester Brushes – Ideally used with latex paint, these brushes will retain their stiffness and shape with almost every paint and will apply evenly and smoothly. With regular maintenance, these brushes should last 6 months to a year.

The lifespan of your paintbrush can be greatly extended with the proper care and maintenance, regardless of what kind of brush you use! We recommend using soap and water on latex brushes and mineral spirits on natural oil brushes.

Paintbrush Maintenance

Oil Paints

You should always make sure that you’re closely following the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your brushes. Typically, the instructions will ask you to use a specific cleaner or solvent. To clean with a solvent, you should pour it into a container that will easily accommodate the brush—a very clean, used paint can works well. After pouring it into your container, work the thinner throughout the bristles by dipping it in the container repeatedly until the excess paint has come off. If necessary, spin the brush a few times until no material remains on the bristles.

Latex Paints

Latex paints are less difficult to clean off. These paints can easily come off with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Clean the brush by dipping it into the mixture and working the soapy water into the bristles with your hands, followed by a rinse of clear water. Repeat the process if necessary.

Tools & Gadgets

Paint Brush Comb

After you’ve washed your brushes, you may still find yourself with some dried paint on the bristles. This is where a brush comb comes in handy. The comb is especially useful because it allows you to carefully remove dried paint without damaging the bristles. Just a few strokes with a paint brush comb, and your brush will be virtually like new!

Brush Spinner

You should never leave your brush with water on it as it can cause your bristles to warp. A brush spinner is a great solution to this problem. Once you’re done cleaning and combing your brushes, toss them into the spinner for a perfect dry.

FCI Painting Has You Covered

Painting may seem easy, but for an error-free, high quality result, you should hire an expert team like FCI Painting. Our painting company has been giving homes the perfect makeover for years! Whether you’re painting the interior or need a fresh coat on the exterior, give us a call at (239) 435-1001 or use our contact form online.