Painting glossary

Sheen - the gloss level, from flat/matte through eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and gloss. Higher sheen is more washable and more likely to reveal wall defects.

Cutting in - brushing the edges at ceilings, corners and trim where a roller can't reach. Sloppy cut lines are the most visible sign of rushed work.

Back-rolling - rolling immediately after spraying so the coating is worked into the surface texture. Common on exteriors and textured surfaces to improve adhesion.

Mil thickness - the thickness of the applied film. Manufacturers specify a wet and dry mil range per coat; spreading paint too thin is a common way to make a gallon go further at your expense.

Primer - a bonding or sealing coat, not a cheap first coat. Types include bonding, stain-blocking and masonry primers.

Substrate - the material being painted (drywall, wood, stucco, masonry, metal). Paint failures are usually substrate problems.

RRP - the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. Firms doing paid work that disturbs paint in pre-1978 homes and child care facilities must be EPA- or state-certified and use certified renovators and lead-safe work practices.

Certified renovator - an individual trained by an EPA-accredited provider who directs lead-safe work on site. Hands-on training certification runs five years; online refresher training runs three.

Minor repair and maintenance exemption - the RRP carve-out for work disturbing six square feet or less of paint per interior room, or 20 square feet or less on the exterior. Window replacement and demolition are always covered.