When tackling furniture painting projects, especially on
tricky surfaces like melamine, MDF, or those notorious IKEA
finishes, ensuring proper paint adhesion is crucial. This is where Fusion
Mineral Paint’s Ultra Grip comes into play—a bonding agent specifically
designed to help your paint stick to those hard-to-paint, slick, and shiny
surfaces. Below, we’ll discuss when and how to use Ultra Grip to achieve the
best results.
What is Fusion Mineral Paint’s Ultra Grip?
Fusion Mineral Paint’s Ultra Grip is a high-quality bonding
agent that allows you to paint on smooth, non-porous surfaces without worrying
about your paint peeling or chipping off. It’s a game-changer for projects
involving surfaces that are typically difficult to paint, such as melamine,
MDF, and certain pre-finished or factory-laminated surfaces like
those found on IKEA furniture.
Key Points About Ultra Grip:
• Color: Ultra Grip goes on white but
dries completely clear.
• Drying Time: It’s important to
allow 12 hours of drying time between coats to ensure proper adhesion.
• Coats: While one thin coat is
usually sufficient, some surfaces may require two thin coats because it can be
hard to see where you’ve applied it.
• Application Tools: Ultra Grip can
be applied with a high-quality Staalmeester roller, Staalmeester brush, or a
black applicator sponge, which should be dampened before use to ensure a
smooth, even application.
When to Use Ultra Grip
Ultra Grip is essential when working with surfaces that
typically resist paint adherence, especially slick or shiny surfaces. Here are
some common scenarios where you should consider using Ultra Grip:
• Melamine Surfaces: Melamine is a
type of plastic resin often used in making cabinets, furniture, and
countertops. It’s incredibly smooth, making it difficult for paint to adhere
properly. Applying Ultra Grip provides the necessary bond for your paint to
stick.
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): MDF is commonly used in furniture, particularly in pieces that are not solid wood. While it’s a durable material, its surface is smooth and can't withstand scuffsanding which can make paint adhesion a challenge. Ultra Grip helps create a strong bond between the paint and MDF.
• IKEA Furniture: IKEA furniture is
known for its sleek, laminated surfaces, which can be tough to paint over. The
coating on these pieces often repels paint, leading to flaking or peeling.
Applying Ultra Grip before painting ensures that your paint job will be
long-lasting and durable.
• Pre-Finished Surfaces: For any
pre-finished or factory-laminated surfaces that are difficult to sand or
prepare, Ultra Grip will provide a reliable foundation for your paint.
• Slick or Shiny Surfaces: Ultra Grip
is also designed to work exceptionally well on any really slick or shiny
surfaces that cannot withstand a scuff sand. This includes surfaces that are
glossy or have a high sheen, where traditional paint might struggle to adhere.
By using Ultra Grip, you can ensure that your paint bonds securely and remains
durable over time.
How to Determine if You Need Ultra Grip
If you’re in doubt about whether you need Ultra Grip,
there’s a simple test you can perform. Apply a small amount of your paint to
the surface you’re working with. If you notice the paint starting to separate
or form a lace-like pattern, that’s a clear hint that the surface has some sort
of resist—likely due to grease, residue, OR the inherent slickness of the
material. In this case, you should re-clean the surface thoroughly. If the
issue persists, that’s your sign to apply Fusion Ultra Grip as a bonder to
ensure your paint adheres perfectly to the surface.
How to Apply Ultra Grip
1. Prepare the Surface: Clean the
surface thoroughly to remove any grease, dust, or dirt with Fusion TSP Alternative. This will help the
Ultra Grip adhere better.
2. Dampen the Applicator: Using a Fusion Application Sponge, a high-quality Staalmeester Flat Wide Ultimate One #7 or,Staalmeester 10cm Micro Felt Paint Roller to ensure a smooth even application.
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3. Apply a Thin Coat: Apply a thin coat
of Ultra Grip to the surface. Because it goes on white and dries clear, be
mindful of where you apply it, as it can be difficult to see. In some cases,
you may need to apply a second thin coat.
4. Wait 12 Hours: Allow the Ultra Grip
to dry for a full 12 hours between coats and before you begin painting. This
waiting period is crucial for ensuring a strong bond.
5. Paint: Once the Ultra Grip has
dried, you can proceed with painting using your choice of Fusion Mineral Paint
colors.
Conclusion
For those challenging surfaces that resist paint, especially slick and shiny ones , Fusion Mineral Paint’s Ultra Grip is the solution to ensure your paint adheres beautifully and lasts for years to come. If you’re working with melamine, MDF, IKEA finishes, or any high-gloss surface, Ultra Grip will give you the confidence that your paint job will stand the test of time.And remember, if you’re ever in doubt, do a quick paint test—if you see the paint starting to separate or lace, it’s time to reach for Ultra Grip. Now that you know how to use Fusion Ultra Grip for tricky surfaces, don't forget that proper preparation is just as crucial. For a complete guide on how to prep your furniture before painting, check out our blog post How to Prep Furniture for Fusion Mineral Paint: A Step-by-Step Guide If you are local and you would like to do in-store shopping,expert advice and product demonstrations, we are fully stocked with everything you need to get started on you next DIY journey at AnitaTrinket . Click here for more information and inspiration with Fusion Mineral Paint
Happy Painting
Wendy