Preparation and application

The surface should be clean, dry, sound and free from dust, grease and loose material. Repair cracks and imperfections, and ensure that fillers or plaster have dried sufficiently. Apply a suitable primer where required by the substrate or paint system Primer costs less than paint and can save paint in the end. In doubt? Email bleo@bleocollective.com.

In most cases, you will not need to apply a primer before painting previously painted interior walls with Blēo. However, primer requirements always depend on the surface and its condition. New, porous, repaired or untreated surfaces may require priming to ensure even absorption, good adhesion and a consistent finish. Wood, metal and other specialised surfaces may also require a suitable primer before painting. If you are unsure whether your surface needs priming, please contact us. We are happy to advise on the appropriate preparation and paint system for your project.

Newly plastered walls must be completely dry, stable and properly prepared before painting. Drying time depends on the type and thickness of the plaster, as well as temperature, humidity and ventilation. Even when the surface appears dry, moisture may remain beneath it. New plaster is often highly absorbent and may require a suitable primer to ensure even absorption and proper adhesion. We recommend confirming that the plaster has dried sufficiently and following the preparation requirements for the specific surface before applying Blēo paint.

Yes. In most cases, Blēo paint can be applied directly over existing conventional interior wall paint without the need for a separate primer. The existing surface should be clean, dry, stable and free from loose or flaking paint. Glossy surfaces may require light sanding to ensure proper adhesion, while damaged or incompatible coatings may need additional preparation or priming. If you are unsure which type of paint is currently on your walls, we recommend checking the compatibility before repainting.

Wood surfaces should be clean, dry and properly prepared before painting. Remove loose or damaged coatings and lightly sand the surface to create a smooth, even base. Remove all sanding dust before applying paint. Depending on the type of wood and its existing treatment, a suitable primer may be required to improve adhesion, seal the surface or prevent discolouration from knots and natural wood extractives. For interior woodwork, we recommend Blēo SEMI GLOSS or HIGH GLOSS, both developed to provide a durable, hard-wearing finish.

Yes, in some cases Blēo paint can be applied over existing wallpaper, provided the wallpaper is firmly attached, clean and suitable for painting. Loose seams, damaged areas or moisture-sensitive wallpaper may affect the final result. Textured wallpaper will also retain its texture beneath the paint. We recommend checking the wallpaper material and adhesive before painting. Where the wallpaper is unstable or unsuitable, removing it and preparing the underlying wall is generally the better solution.

Blēo paint can be used on suitable interior brick and masonry surfaces, provided they are correctly prepared. The surface must be stable, sufficiently dry and free from dust, salts and loose material. Depending on the porosity and condition of the substrate, a suitable primer may be required. Certain masonry constructions also require breathable coating systems to allow moisture to escape. This is particularly important for older brickwork and surfaces exposed to moisture. We recommend contacting us with details of the surface before painting so we can advise on the appropriate preparation and finish.

For most Blēo finishes, we recommend two coats to achieve an even, consistent result with good coverage. Some colours contain particularly high concentrations of pigment and may require additional coats to achieve their full depth and intensity. For HIGH GLOSS, we generally recommend three to four coats to build up a rich, uniform and fully reflective surface. The number of coats also depends on the substrate, existing colour and preparation. Please refer to the instructions for your selected product and colour, or contact us if you are unsure.

Blēo paint is developed for straightforward application using conventional painting tools. For walls and ceilings, we generally recommend a good-quality paint roller to achieve an even, consistent finish. For woodwork, doors, frames and metal surfaces, a high-quality brush is often preferred, allowing greater control around edges, profiles and architectural details. Work systematically, apply the paint evenly and avoid excessive reworking once the paint begins to dry. Application methods may vary depending on the selected finish and surface. Always follow the relevant product instructions.

Yes. Blēo paints can be applied using suitable professional spray equipment. The appropriate spray system, nozzle size, pressure and any permitted dilution depend on the specific paint formulation and equipment being used. Correct settings and application technique are important to achieve an even finish and avoid excessive overspray or uneven coverage. We recommend consulting the technical information for your selected paint or contacting us for guidance before spray application.

Recoating times vary depending on the paint finish and the conditions in which it is applied.

As a general guide, we recommend the following intervals:

- ULTRA MATTE and MATTE: Allow approximately 5–7 hours between coats.
- SEMI GLOSS, HIGH GLOSS and WET ROOM: Allow at least 12 hours between coats.
- FLOOR: Allow at least 24 hours between coats.

For FLOOR, we recommend waiting approximately seven days after the final coat before returning the floor to normal foot traffic. This allows the coating time to cure and develop its intended hardness and durability. Low temperatures, high humidity and poor ventilation may extend drying and recoating times. Always follow the technical instructions for the selected product.

Drying and curing are two different stages of the painting process. Paint may feel dry to the touch within a relatively short time, but the coating continues to harden and develop its full durability after application. The time required depends on the finish, temperature, humidity, ventilation and thickness of the applied coats. For walls and ceilings, avoid intensive cleaning or rubbing until the paint has sufficiently cured. For woodwork and furniture, take care with heavy handling during the initial curing period. For Blēo FLOOR, we recommend allowing approximately seven days after the final coat before normal foot traffic, giving the coating time to develop its intended hardness. Always refer to the product's technical instructions for specific drying and curing requirements.

Yes. Blēo SEMI GLOSS (sheen 30) and HIGH GLOSS (sheen 80) are particularly well suited to kitchen cabinets, wardrobe fronts and other frequently used interior surfaces. Both are formulated as durable, enamel-based finishes designed to withstand regular handling and everyday wear. For kitchen and wardrobe fronts, we generally recommend three coats to build a smooth, durable and consistent surface. A good-quality brush can produce a beautiful finish, with subtle brushwork adding character to the painted surface. Correct preparation is essential. Depending on the material and existing finish, surfaces may need to be cleaned, degreased, sanded and primed before painting. Laminated, lacquered and untreated wood surfaces may require different preparation methods. Allow the paint to cure sufficiently before returning doors and drawers to regular use.

Cracking, peeling or flaking paint can have several underlying causes, most commonly related to the condition of the surface or the preparation before painting. Residual moisture, insufficient drying of plaster, incompatible primers or coatings, poor adhesion and unsuitable application conditions can all affect the performance of the paint. In some cases, movement in the underlying substrate or the use of unsuitable fillers, adhesives or other materials may also contribute. Before repainting, it is important to identify and correct the underlying cause. Applying another coat of paint will not resolve problems originating from the substrate. If you experience an issue with a Blēo-painted surface, please contact us with photographs and information about the preparation and products used. We will be happy to help assess the situation.