Cleaning Mildew
So far, this has been one of the busiest summers on record for us, not so much for the size and scope of painting projects we had to deal with, but rather for the number of projects we have successfully completed.
As expected in most areas of Westchester, New York and Fairfield County, Connecticut, mildew has been one of the main challenges for exterior painting companies to deal with. This year we had four separate projects where the entire exterior painted surface was covered with black mildew. This problem was especially exacerbated where oil based paint or primer was previously used. In mildew prone areas such as homes that are surrounded by trees and vegetation, oil paint is a recipe for disaster.
Why you should not use oil based paint
It’s been said that oil-based paint is food for mildew. To mitigate the problem, we had to power-wash the surface with cleaning solutions. Next, we had to apply a coat of mildew sealer/blocker. Finally, we painted with a high quality 100% acrylic paint or stain. We have been using mildew sealer for the past five years with great success. Not only does it prevent any remaining mildew from growing and resurfacing again but it also acts as a great bridge primer to facilitate the switch from oil to acrylic paint or stain.
I just don’t understand why many painters still insist on using oil-based paint! The paint and coating industry have come a long way since the days of oil paint superiority. Acrylic paint products and especially those with low or zero VOC are much better for our environment and outperform their oil counterparts in nine out of ten characteristics.
Please call or email us to set up an estimate or consultation at 914.762.7874 or info@painttrack.com.
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Owner & General Manager
Meet Mr. Paint Track himself, Ray! Having been in the industry for three decades, Ray has built Paint Track on a foundation of honesty, knowledge, and respect. He exemplifies leadership, with a commitment to both his craft and our team. Ray is known for his great sense of humor, and if you’re familiar with him, you’ve undoubtedly heard numerous jokes! His vibrant energy uplifts our team. Thanks to his leadership, Paint Track has earned a reputation as a trusted name in the community for the past 20 years.
Ray’s expertise and dedication to quality are evident in every project Paint Track undertakes. He’s not only a master of his craft but also a mentor who generously shares his wealth of knowledge with every team member, helping each of us grow and improve. Ray’s hands-on approach ensures that every detail is attended to, and he consistently goes above and beyond to exceed client expectations.
Ray’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a master’s degree in Telecommunications, which have contributed to his exceptional organizational skills and analytical approach to managing projects. His education and strategic thinking have been instrumental in building an efficient and effective business operation that continues to deliver outstanding results.
In addition to his work with Paint Track, Ray is deeply involved in the community. He actively participates in multiple Chamber of Commerce groups and serves as a board member on the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) Education and Finance Committees. His dedication to advancing the industry and supporting local businesses exemplifies his commitment to both Paint Track and the community.
Under Ray’s leadership, Paint Track has become known not just for superior workmanship but for a client-centered approach that prioritizes communication, transparency, and trust. We’re incredibly grateful to have him leading the way, and we’re proud to carry forward his legacy of excellence in every job we do.
Skills Leadership, customer relations, estimating, and problem solving
Hobbies: Exercise, beekeeping, and hiking
Favorite Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Indigo 6531