Benjamin Moore Impervo, a high-end paint, represents an oil-based alkyd finish and is known for its self-leveling properties. These qualities of Benjamin Moore Impervo make it particularly well-suited for application on interior trim and doors, delivering a smooth, cabinet-grade appearance and durable finish, coveted by both professional painters and DIY enthusiasts seeking a premium coating solution. The paint’s robust formulation ensures that surfaces, coated with it, withstand frequent use and cleaning while maintaining their aesthetic appeal for years.
Okay, picture this: you’re on a quest. Not for the Holy Grail, but for something arguably more elusive: the perfect paint. A paint that doesn’t just cover up flaws, but actually erases them. A paint so tough, it laughs in the face of scuffs and scrapes. Sounds like a fairy tale, right? Well, grab your brushes, because the legend is real and it goes by the name of Benjamin Moore Impervo.
What is this Impervo we speak of, and why does it have decorators and DIY enthusiasts alike singing its praises? Simply put, it’s a premium paint that’s earned its stripes through sheer performance. Known for its incredible leveling capabilities, ridiculous durability, and drop-dead gorgeous finish, Impervo isn’t just paint; it’s an experience.
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. Impervo isn’t some Johnny-come-lately; it’s got a history. Born from the venerable Benjamin Moore, it evolved to be a reliable product line.
Now, what makes Impervo the star it is? Three words: leveling, durability, and finish. We’re talking about a paint that goes on smooth as butter, stands up to whatever life throws at it, and looks absolutely stunning while doing it. And with a variety of sheens to choose from, from elegant matte to gleaming high-gloss, there’s an Impervo finish to suit every taste and project. Whether you’re tackling a full-house renovation or a small refresh, this paint is ready to roll.
Understanding Alkyd Paints: The Secret Sauce Behind Impervo’s Smooth Moves
Alright, so we know Benjamin Moore Impervo is the real deal when it comes to paint, but what’s the magic ingredient that makes it so darn good? It all boils down to alkyd paint. Think of alkyd as the unsung hero, the behind-the-scenes genius that gives Impervo its superpowers. Let’s break down what makes alkyd paints so special and how they differ from their old-school cousin, oil-based paint, and their modern, eco-friendlier sibling, waterborne alkyds.
What Exactly is Alkyd Paint?
Simply put, alkyd paint is a type of paint where the binder – the stuff that holds the pigment together and makes the paint stick to the surface – is made from alkyd resins. These resins are essentially polyesters modified with oils, and that gives them a unique set of properties. Alkyd paints are known for their toughness, excellent adhesion, and the ability to create a smooth, level finish that’s the envy of other paints. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of the paint world – versatile and reliable.
Oil-Based Paint: The OG with Some Drawbacks
Now, let’s talk about oil-based paints. These are the granddaddies of the paint world, having been around for ages. They’re famous for their exceptional durability, creating a hard, protective layer that can withstand a lot of abuse. Think of them as the bodybuilders of the paint world. But, like bodybuilders, they come with some baggage. Oil-based paints are notorious for their high levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which are those fumes that can make you feel a bit lightheaded and aren’t great for the environment. Plus, they take forever to dry, like watching paint dry in slow motion. While they do have their place, modern alternatives offer better options.
Waterborne Alkyd: The Best of Both Worlds?
Enter waterborne alkyds, the modern marvels of the paint world. These paints combine the best features of both alkyd and water-based technology. They use alkyd resins that have been modified to be dispersed in water, which means they have significantly lower VOCs than traditional oil-based paints. You get the durability and smooth finish of an alkyd with the easy cleanup and faster drying times of a water-based paint. It’s like getting your cake and eating it too! For those looking for an environmentally conscious, high-performance paint, waterborne alkyds are often a great choice, offering a sweet spot between old-school reliability and modern convenience.
Where Impervo Shines: Ideal Applications for Exceptional Results
So, you’re thinking about using Benjamin Moore Impervo? Smart move! This paint isn’t just paint; it’s practically liquid gold for surfaces that need to look amazing and stand up to daily wear and tear. Let’s dive into where this stuff really makes a difference, both inside and outside your humble abode.
Interior Applications: Where Durability Meets Elegance
Inside the house, Impervo is your go-to for areas that see a lot of action but still need to look classy. Think about places that get touched, bumped, and maybe even occasionally kicked (we’re looking at you, baseboards). It is especially great for areas where a durable, smooth finish is desired such as high-traffic areas, places prone to moisture, or surfaces that need to withstand frequent cleaning.
Exterior Applications: Facing the Elements with Style
Don’t think Impervo is just for indoors! It’s tough enough to handle the great outdoors, too. When thinking about where to use Impervo on exteriors, consider its weather resistance and durability. Remember that this paint is designed to not only beautify but also protect against the elements.
Specific Use Cases:
Trim: Flawless and Forever
Ever notice how trim can make or break a room? Impervo gives moldings and trim a flawless, durable finish that’s tough to beat. It levels out beautifully, so you won’t see every little brushstroke screaming for attention. It’s the secret weapon for achieving that magazine-worthy look.
Doors: Welcoming and Weatherproof
Doors are the handshake of your home, right? Impervo enhances and protects both interior and exterior doors, giving them a smooth, professional finish that makes a statement. Think of it as a stylish bodyguard, keeping your doors looking great for years.
Cabinets: Kitchen and Bathroom Bliss
Kitchen and bathroom cabinets take a beating. Between splashes, spills, and constant use, they need a finish that can keep up. Impervo creates durable and beautiful kitchen and bathroom cabinets with a factory-like finish. It’s the secret to a kitchen or bathroom that looks like it belongs in a showroom, even after years of daily use.
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro (Surface Preparation)
Alright, future Impervo aficionados, let’s talk about prep work—the unsung hero of any paint job. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t build a house on a shaky foundation, right? Same goes for paint. A flawless finish starts long before you even crack open that can of glorious Impervo.
First, we gotta get things squeaky clean. We are talking removing all the grease, grime, and mystery substances that have accumulated on your surface. A good scrub with soap and water is your best friend here. For stubborn spots, consider a degreaser. Then, rinse thoroughly – you don’t want any soapy residue messing with your paint’s adhesion.
Next, comes the sandpaper tango. We’re not trying to completely strip the surface, just rough it up enough so the paint has something to grab onto. For previously painted surfaces, a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) will do the trick. If you’re dealing with bare wood, start with a coarser grit (around 120-grit) and gradually work your way up to a finer grit. Remember to always sand in the direction of the wood grain. And for existing glossy surfaces, give it a thorough sanding or consider a de-glosser.
Dust is the enemy! After sanding, meticulously remove all sanding dust. A tack cloth is your best weapon here. It’s like a magnet for dust, leaving you with a perfectly clean surface ready for its Impervo makeover.
Pro-Tip: Take the time to fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler or spackle. Let it dry completely, sand it smooth, and prime before painting. Trust me, those little imperfections will be much more noticeable once you’ve got that smooth Impervo finish on there.
Step 2: Tools of the Trade (Application Techniques)
Okay, now that your surface is prepped and ready to rock, let’s talk about the arsenal of tools you’ll need to conquer this painting project.
Brushes
For those intricate details and tight corners, you’ll want a high-quality brush. Look for brushes with synthetic bristles designed for use with alkyd paints. A smooth, even application is the goal, so invest in a good brush – it’ll pay off in the long run.
Rollers
When it comes to larger, flat surfaces (like doors), a roller is your best friend. Choose a roller cover with a short nap (around 1/4 inch) for a smooth finish. Foam rollers can also work well, but be sure to get one that’s compatible with alkyd paints.
Sprayers
Now, if you’re feeling fancy (and have some experience), a paint sprayer can be a game-changer. Sprayers provide an ultra-smooth, factory-like finish that’s hard to achieve with a brush or roller. However, they also require more setup, cleanup, and skill. If you’re a sprayer newbie, practice on a scrap piece first.
Step 3: The Art of Application (Minimizing Brush Marks)
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: avoiding those dreaded brush marks. Nobody wants a paint job that looks like it was applied with a rake. Here are a few tips:
- Load Your Brush Properly: Dip your brush about one-third of the way into the paint, and then tap off the excess against the side of the can. Too much paint will lead to runs and drips.
- Use Long, Even Strokes: Apply the paint with smooth, consistent strokes. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can leave brush marks.
- Work in Small Sections: Don’t try to paint the entire door in one go. Work in manageable sections, and overlap each stroke slightly to blend the paint together.
- Maintain a Wet Edge: This means always painting into the wet edge of the previous stroke to prevent lap marks.
- Don’t Overwork It: The more you brush or roll the paint, the more likely you are to create brush marks. Apply it evenly and then leave it alone. Let Impervo’s magical self-leveling properties do their thing.
Step 4: Spraying vs. Brushing
So, to spray or not to spray? That is the question.
- Spraying: Faster application, ultra-smooth finish, requires more setup and cleanup, higher skill level needed, and can create overspray.
- Brushing: More control, less overspray, easier for beginners, slower application, and can leave brush marks if not done carefully.
The Verdict: If you’re going for the absolute smoothest finish possible and you’re comfortable with a sprayer, then go for it. But if you’re a beginner or you’re working on a small project, brushing is perfectly fine (and often easier).
Now, for the coup de grâce: tipping off. This is a technique used to eliminate any remaining brush marks and achieve an ultra-smooth, professional-looking finish.
- How to Do It: After you’ve applied the paint with a brush or roller, lightly drag the tips of a clean, dry brush over the surface in one long, continuous stroke. Hold the brush at a slight angle and use very light pressure.
This will gently knock down any remaining brush marks and leave you with a finish that’s so smooth, you’ll want to lick it (but don’t).
Priming and Coating: Building a Foundation for Lasting Beauty
Think of priming like laying the groundwork for a skyscraper—you wouldn’t just start building on dirt, would you? Primers are the unsung heroes of painting, the behind-the-scenes wizards that ensure your topcoat of Impervo not only looks amazing but also sticks around for the long haul. Without a good primer, you might as well be trying to ice a cake with no frosting underneath – messy and ultimately unsatisfying.
Selecting the right primer is paramount; it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Are you dealing with bare wood, perhaps some previously painted surfaces, or even tricky materials like glossy laminate? Each surface requires a primer with unique properties to ensure optimal adhesion and a uniform finish. Priming ensures your topcoat pops, giving it a richer, more vibrant look. The primer creates a sealed, consistent base that minimizes the absorption of the topcoat, preventing dull spots and ensuring even coverage.
The Role of Primers
Imagine trying to paint a chalkboard with regular paint – it would just soak in, right? Primers act like a sealant, preventing the topcoat from being absorbed into the surface, which can lead to an uneven finish. For bare wood, a stain-blocking primer is your best friend, preventing tannins from seeping through and ruining your beautiful Impervo finish. For previously painted surfaces, a bonding primer ensures the new coat adheres properly, even if the old paint is glossy.
Priming for Oil-Based Paint
Since we’re talking Impervo, which is an alkyd paint, you’ll want to choose a primer specifically designed for use with oil-based paints. Here are a couple of rock-solid recommendations:
- Benjamin Moore’s Alkyd Metal & Wood Primer (094): This primer is fantastic for creating a smooth, even base on wood and metal surfaces. It enhances adhesion, promotes even color, and seals porous surfaces, preventing excessive paint absorption.
- Benjamin Moore’s Fresh Start® High-Hiding All Purpose Primer (046): While technically acrylic, this primer works well under Impervo when you need to block stains or cover dark colors. Ensure it’s fully dry before applying your oil-based Impervo topcoat.
Choosing the right primer is like picking the right dance partner—get it right, and you’ll glide through the project with ease!
Application
Okay, so you’ve got your primer; now what? Applying primer correctly is almost as important as choosing the right one. It’s not just slapping it on—it’s about creating that perfect foundation for Impervo to shine!
Number of Coats
Generally, one coat of primer is sufficient for most surfaces. However, if you’re dealing with a very porous surface, like raw wood, or trying to cover a dark color with a light one, two coats might be necessary for full coverage and enhanced durability. Think of it as building layers of security for your paint job!
Dry Time
Patience, young grasshopper! Dry time is crucial. Don’t rush this step, or you’ll end up with a sticky mess. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually found on the can). This ensures proper adhesion and prevents the topcoat from peeling or blistering later on. Rushing the dry time is like trying to send a text message with no signal; it just won’t work.
Recoat Time
Before you dive in with your Impervo, double-check the recommended recoat time on your primer can. This is the minimum amount of time you need to wait before applying the topcoat. If you apply the topcoat too soon, you risk compromising the primer’s adhesion and ending up with a less-than-perfect finish. Trust the experts and let that primer do its thing!
Follow these priming guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to a flawless and long-lasting Impervo finish!
Troubleshooting Impervo: Nailing That Flawless Finish (Even When Things Go a Little Sideways)
Okay, so you’ve chosen Benjamin Moore Impervo – smart move! You’re aiming for that super-smooth, durable, “did-a-professional-do-this?” kind of finish. But let’s be real, painting isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, things can get a bit…goopy. Don’t panic! We’re here to troubleshoot those common Impervo application hiccups and get you back on track to painting perfection. Think of this as your “Oops, I Did It Again” recovery guide, but for paint!
Common Application Issues (and How to Kick Them to the Curb)
Let’s face it, gravity is a thing. And sometimes, that gravity decides to make your paint look like tiny waterfalls.
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Sagging and Runs: The “Oh No, It’s Melting!” Moment
- The Culprits: Too much paint, applied too thickly. Or, trying to paint in super-humid conditions. Think of it like trying to ice a cake with runny frosting – disaster is imminent!
- The Fix:
- Prevention is Key: Apply thin, even coats. Multiple thin coats are WAY better than one thick, gloppy one.
- The Immediate Rescue: If you catch a sag or run while the paint is still wet, lightly brush it out.
- The Aftermath Solution: If it’s dried, sand it smooth and then apply a thin coat of paint over the corrected area.
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Brush Marks: The “Texture, Not on Purpose” Situation
- The Culprits: Using the wrong brush, applying too much pressure, or the paint drying too quickly. Also, sometimes your technique just isn’t quite there yet. We’ve all been there!
- The Fix:
- Brush Wisdom: Invest in a high-quality brush designed for alkyd paints.
- Technique is King: Use long, even strokes, and avoid pressing down too hard. Let the brush do the work.
- Thin it Out (Maybe): In some cases, adding a tiny bit of paint thinner (consult your paint store for the right product) can help the paint flow better. But proceed with caution!
- Sand and Smooth: Lightly sand between coats to knock down any persistent brush marks. This is your secret weapon!
Understanding “Self-Leveling”: Impervo’s Secret Weapon
Here’s where Impervo really shines (pun intended!). It’s formulated to have excellent self-leveling properties. What does that mean? Simply put, it means the paint has a natural tendency to smooth out on its own as it dries, minimizing brush marks and creating a more uniform finish.
- How It Works: Impervo’s formulation allows it to flow and settle, effectively filling in minor imperfections and smoothing out any brushstrokes.
- Why It Matters: It makes you look like a pro, even if you’re just starting out! It reduces the amount of intervention needed on your part to achieve a smooth surface.
- Important Note: While Impervo’s self-leveling is fantastic, it’s not magic. You still need to use good technique and proper tools to maximize its effectiveness! Think of it as an extra layer of polish, not a replacement for skill!
Wrapping Up and Tidying Up: Because Even Masterpieces Need a Little TLC
Alright, you’ve poured your heart (and a few cans of Impervo) into your project, and it’s looking absolutely stunning. But before you kick back and admire your handiwork, there’s the small matter of cleaning up and making sure everything cures properly. Think of it as the encore to a fantastic performance!
The Great Paint Purge: Saying Goodbye to Oil-Based Leftovers
Dealing with leftover oil-based paint isn’t as simple as tossing it in the trash. Oh no, my friend. We’re talking about following the local regulations for proper disposal. These rules are in place to protect the environment, so let’s be good citizens, shall we? Check with your local waste management or environmental agency for specific instructions. They might have designated drop-off locations or specific guidelines for how to prepare the paint for disposal. This usually involves hardening the paint with kitty litter or a commercial hardener before it goes in the trash. Nobody wants a rogue paint can incident!
Brush Spa Day: Pampering Your Painting Tools
Your brushes and equipment have been through a lot. They deserve a little TLC. Cleaning them properly is not only a matter of respect; it will also save you money in the long run and extend their lifespan. For oil-based paints like Impervo, you’ll need to use the appropriate solvents, typically mineral spirits or paint thinner.
Here’s the process in a nutshell:
- Wipe off as much excess paint as possible with a rag.
- Rinse the brushes in the solvent, working it into the bristles.
- Repeat until the solvent runs clear.
- Wash the brushes with soap and water to remove any remaining solvent.
- Reshape the bristles and allow them to dry completely.
Properly cleaned brushes are happy brushes, ready for their next adventure!
The Curing Countdown: Patience is a Virtue (Especially with Paint!)
Curing time? What’s that, you ask? It’s the period it takes for the paint to fully harden and achieve its maximum durability. Think of it as the paint equivalent of letting a fine wine age. Rushing this process is like serving that wine too soon – you won’t get the full experience!
Generally, Impervo needs several days to a couple of weeks to fully cure, depending on the environmental conditions like humidity and temperature. During this time, it’s best to avoid heavy use or cleaning of the painted surface. Be gentle! This is crucial because the paint’s resistance to wear and tear increases significantly as it cures. So, be patient, admire your work from a safe distance, and let the magic happen!
Performance and Characteristics: What REALLY Makes Impervo the MVP of Paints?
Okay, so you’ve heard the hype about Benjamin Moore Impervo, but what actually makes it worth the splurge? Let’s dive into what sets this paint apart from the crowd – think of it as Impervo’s superhero origin story, but for your walls.
Unbreakable Durability: Built to Last (Like, REALLY Last)
First up: Durability. We’re talking serious resistance to the daily grind. Impervo’s like that friend who can handle anything life throws at them. Got kids who treat walls like coloring books? Pets with a penchant for scratching? Impervo stands up to wear and tear like a champ, making it the perfect choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and playrooms. It’s like giving your surfaces an invisible shield!
Leveling Like a Pro: Say Goodbye to Brushstroke City
Next, let’s talk about leveling. Ever painted something only to end up with a surface that looks like a miniature mountain range of brushstrokes? Not with Impervo! Its self-leveling properties mean it smooths out as it dries, practically erasing any evidence of your brush. The result? A finish so flawless, it looks like it was professionally sprayed. It’s like having a paint fairy wave a magic wand over your project!
**Sheen Levels: Dial Up the Drama (or Keep it Subtle) **
Now, onto sheen levels. Impervo comes in a range of glossiness, from eye-catching high gloss to velvety smooth satin.
- High Gloss: For a touch of glamour and surfaces that are practically wipe-clean.
- Semi-Gloss: A bit less intense than high gloss, offering a good balance of shine and practicality.
- Satin: A subtle sheen that adds a touch of elegance without being too reflective.
Choosing the right sheen is like picking the perfect outfit for your room – it sets the mood and tone.
The Resistance is Real: Stain and Fade-Fighting Power
Finally, let’s talk about resistance. Impervo is like the ultimate defender against the elements (well, indoor elements, at least).
- Stain Resistance: Spilled spaghetti sauce? Muddy paw prints? No problem! Impervo’s stain-resistant formula makes cleaning a breeze, keeping your surfaces looking fresh and new.
- Fade Resistance: Say goodbye to that sun-faded, washed-out look. Impervo’s fade-resistant pigments keep your colors vibrant and true for years to come, even in rooms with lots of sunlight.
Health, Safety, and Regulatory Compliance: Painting Responsibly
Let’s face it, nobody wants to breathe in fumes that could turn them into a cartoon character with spinning eyes. When we’re talking about alkyd paints like Impervo, it’s crucial to understand the health and safety aspects. It’s not just about getting that perfect, smooth finish; it’s about doing it responsibly. So, before you pop open that can of paint, let’s chat about how to keep yourself and the environment happy and healthy.
Understanding VOCs in Alkyd Paint
VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are sneaky little things that evaporate from certain paints (especially some oil-based ones) and can cause some not-so-fun health effects, from headaches and dizziness to more serious long-term issues. Think of them as tiny ninjas that can mess with your air quality. While modern alkyd paints, including some waterborne versions, have made strides in reducing VOCs, it’s still a factor to consider. Being aware of the VOC content in your Alkyd Paint and understanding its potential health effects is the first step in painting responsibly. Always check the label for VOC content and manufacturer safety guidelines.
Staying Compliant with VOC Regulations
Now, let’s talk about rules—because we all love those, right? Well, when it comes to VOC Regulations, they’re actually there to protect us! Many regions have strict guidelines about the amount of VOCs allowed in paints. VOC Regulations are in place to protect human health and the environment. Make sure the product you’re using complies with local and national regulations. Always do a quick check to see if your paint is up to snuff with local and national VOC Regulations. This often means choosing lower-VOC formulations or using paints in well-ventilated areas. Ignoring these rules could land you in hot water (or, at the very least, contribute to poor air quality).
Essential Safety Measures During Application
Okay, so you’ve got your paint, you’ve checked the VOC levels, now what? Safety Measures are your next best friend. Number one: Ventilation. Think open windows, fans, and a cross-breeze if possible. Treat your painting space like a wind tunnel – the more air circulating, the better. This helps to dissipate those VOCs and keeps the air fresh. Number two is all about personal protection. Think of yourself as a painting superhero, equipped with the right gear to save the day (and your lungs!). Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. A good quality respirator, gloves, and eye protection are a must. Don’t skimp on these; they’re your first line of defense against potential health hazards. Respirators filter out harmful particles, gloves protect your skin, and safety glasses keep those precious peepers safe from splatters. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your painting project without compromising your well-being!
Finding Your Treasure: Where to Snag Benjamin Moore Impervo
Alright, so you’re convinced that Benjamin Moore Impervo is the bee’s knees, right? Now, the million-dollar question: where do you actually get your hands on this liquid gold? Well, unlike finding that elusive unicorn, Impervo is thankfully a bit more accessible.
Firstly, you’ll want to head to authorized Benjamin Moore retailers. I know, I know, “authorized” sounds all fancy and exclusive, but trust me, it just means you’re getting the real deal and not some watered-down imposter. Think of it like getting a designer handbag – you wouldn’t want a knock-off, would you? So, to find these havens of painting perfection, Benjamin Moore has a store locator on their website to make it easy to find stores in your zip code. These shops will range from large chains to smaller, locally owned paint stores, but they are certified by Benjamin Moore to be selling their paint products like Impervo.
Decoding the Price Tag: What Affects the Cost of Impervo?
Okay, let’s talk money. Impervo, like most premium products, isn’t exactly the cheapest option on the shelf. But remember, you get what you pay for! When you factor in the long-lasting durability and superior finish, this means that you have less work down the line, or even having to re-paint the surface down the line.
A few things will impact the final price of your Impervo stash. The size of the can is an obvious one – a quart will cost less than a gallon. The sheen level can also play a role; certain sheens might require more specialized formulations, thus bumping up the price a tad. And, of course, different retailers may have different markups. That’s just the nature of the beast, folks.
Hunting for Deals and Dodging Fakes: Pro Tips
Ready to play detective and hunt for the best deals? Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions at your local Benjamin Moore retailer. Sometimes they offer discounts on specific product lines, and you might just get lucky.
But here’s a word of caution: be wary of ridiculously low prices. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You don’t want to end up with a can of fake Impervo that will chip and fade faster than your last summer tan. Always buy from authorized retailers to ensure you’re getting the real deal. Your project (and your sanity) will thank you for it!
Real-World Insights: Consumer Reviews and Experiences
Okay, let’s get the lowdown from the people who’ve actually wielded the Impervo! We’re diving into the trenches of online reviews and real-life experiences to give you the straight scoop. No marketing fluff, just honest-to-goodness feedback. Think of it as eavesdropping on a bunch of DIY enthusiasts and professional painters chatting about their love (and occasional frustration) with this paint.
Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautifully Levelled
So, what’s the buzz? Let’s break down what folks are saying about Impervo’s performance, durability, and ease of application.
- Performance: Many users rave about Impervo’s legendary leveling capabilities. They say it practically erases brush marks, leaving a finish so smooth, it’s like the paint applied itself. One reviewer joked that they could see their reflection in their newly painted door – and they weren’t even using a mirror! However, some users mention that getting that perfect finish can require a bit of practice and patience.
- Durability: The toughness of Impervo is another major talking point. People are impressed by how well it holds up to daily wear and tear, especially on high-traffic areas like trim and doors. A parent of two energetic toddlers mentioned how Impervo survived an accidental crayon attack with just a simple wipe! But a few users noted that while it’s durable, it’s not indestructible so, it needs to be considered before using.
- Ease of Application: This is where opinions get a bit more varied. Some find Impervo a dream to apply, praising its smooth consistency and forgiving nature. Others, particularly those new to alkyd paints, found it a bit trickier than their usual latex paint. They recommend taking the time to understand the proper application techniques and not rush the process.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
Alright, time for the nitty-gritty. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons, based on user experiences:
Pros:
- Unmatched Leveling: The standout feature that everyone raves about.
- Exceptional Durability: Tough enough to handle the rigors of daily life.
- Beautiful, Long-Lasting Finish: Adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
- Ideal for Trim, Doors, and Cabinets: Surfaces look like they came straight from the factory.
Cons:
- Requires Proper Prep and Technique: Not the most forgiving paint for beginners, so you need to pay attention.
- Higher VOCs Compared to Latex: Requires good ventilation and safety precautions.
- Longer Drying Time: Patience is key.
- Clean-Up Can Be a Hassle: Requires mineral spirits or other solvents.
Ultimately, the consensus seems to be that while Impervo might require a bit more effort and attention than your average paint, the results are well worth it. Just be sure to do your homework, follow the instructions, and maybe watch a few YouTube tutorials before diving in!
So, there you have it! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just tackling your first DIY project, Benjamin Moore Impervo is definitely worth considering. It might be a bit of an investment, but trust me, the smooth, durable finish will have you admiring your work for years to come. Happy painting!
