To thin acrylic latex paint, add a small amount of water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. Ensure the added water does not exceed 10% of the total paint volume. Alternatively, use a latex paint thinner specifically designed for acrylic latex paints, which enhances durability and cleanup. Apply the thinned paint evenly and use techniques like back-brushing or back-rolling for a smoother finish.
The Versatile World of Acrylic Latex Paint: A Comprehensive Guide
In the realm of painting, acrylic latex has emerged as a reliable and versatile choice that meets the needs of both professional painters and home decorators alike. Its unique composition sets it apart from traditional oil-based paints, offering an array of benefits that make it an ideal solution for various painting projects.
Delving into Composition:
Acrylic latex paint comprises a blend of three essential components: acrylic resin, water, and pigments. The acrylic resin forms the durable backbone of the paint, providing excellent adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to cracking and peeling. Water acts as the carrier, allowing for easy application and cleanup. Lastly, pigments impart the desired color and opacity to the paint. This combination creates a formidable barrier that protects painted surfaces from wear and tear while maintaining its vibrant appearance for years to come.
Acrylic Latex Paint: Your Guide to a Perfect Paint Job
Are you eager to transform your space with a fresh coat of paint? Look no further than acrylic latex paint, the versatile and user-friendly choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional painters alike. Let’s dive into its composition to understand why it stands out from the crowd.
Unveiling the Secrets of Acrylic Latex Paint
Acrylic latex paint consists of a harmonious blend of three key ingredients:
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Acrylic Resin: The heart of acrylic latex paint, this water-based resin forms a durable, flexible film upon drying, providing excellent adhesion, resistance to moisture, and weather resistance.
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Water: Water serves as the carrier for the paint, allowing it to be easily applied and adjusted to the desired consistency. Unlike oil-based paints, acrylic latex paint cleans up with soap and water, making it both convenient and environmentally friendly.
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Pigments: Pigments provide the paint with its color and opacity. These tiny particles suspend in the paint, creating a uniform and vibrant finish.
Why Embrace Acrylic Latex Paint?
The composition of acrylic latex paint empowers it with a range of advantages that make it the go-to choice for numerous painting projects:
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Ease of Use: Its water-based nature makes it easy to apply, adjust, and clean up. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find working with acrylic latex paint a breeze.
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Durability: The acrylic resin in acrylic latex paint forms a tough film that resists chipping, peeling, and fading, ensuring your painted surfaces retain their pristine look for years to come.
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Versatile: Acrylic latex paint can be used to paint a wide variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, drywall, concrete, and many more, making it the perfect choice for any painting project.
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Quick Drying Time: Compared to oil-based paints, acrylic latex paint dries quickly, allowing you to complete your painting project with minimal downtime.
By understanding the composition of acrylic latex paint, you can harness its versatility and achieve stunning painting results. So, whether you’re a first-time painter or a seasoned professional, embrace the power of acrylic latex paint and transform your space into your dream canvas.
Essential Tools for Acrylic Latex Paint Mastery
As you embark on your painting journey with acrylic latex paint, gathering the right tools is crucial for achieving professional-looking results. Let’s explore the indispensable tools you’ll need for a seamless painting experience.
Paintbrushes: Choose brushes made specifically for water-based paints. Opt for synthetic brushes with bristles that mimic natural hairs for exceptional coverage and durability. For precise lines and intricate details, consider round brushes; for larger areas, flat brushes offer an even application.
Rollers: For larger surfaces, rollers save time and provide a smooth, even finish. Choose rollers with nap lengths appropriate for the surface texture you’re painting. Short-nap rollers (1/4 to 1/2 inch) work well for smooth surfaces like walls; medium-nap rollers (3/8 to 1 inch) are ideal for semi-rough surfaces like wood paneling; and long-nap rollers (1 to 1-1/2 inches) tackle surfaces with a rough texture like stucco.
Trays: Paint trays are essential for loading paint and rinsing tools. Look for trays with sturdy construction, a non-slip base, and a ribbed lid to remove excess paint from brushes and rollers. Choose trays large enough to accommodate your brush or roller size for efficient painting.
Other Essentials: In addition to brushes, rollers, and trays, equip yourself with a few additional tools for a hassle-free painting experience. Painter’s tape helps protect areas you don’t want painted, while drop cloths keep your floors and furniture safe. Stir sticks ensure thorough paint mixing, and sandpaper allows for surface preparation and smoothing rough edges. Don’t forget a ladder or step stool for reaching higher areas.
Choosing the Right Tools for **Flawless Acrylic Latex Painting**
Stepping into the world of acrylic latex painting, selecting the ideal tools is paramount for achieving professional-grade results. Whether you’re tackling a colossal exterior or a petite interior project, the appropriate tools will empower you to paint with ease and precision.
For sweeping surfaces like walls or ceilings, a quality paint roller is a must-have. Opt for a roller with a nap that corresponds to the surface texture. A thicker nap, around 3/8 inch, is recommended for rough surfaces like stucco, while a shorter nap, like 1/4 inch, is suitable for smooth surfaces like drywall.
When painting intricate areas or trimming, a brush becomes your ally. Natural bristle brushes are excellent for oil-based paints, but for acrylic latex, synthetic brushes are the superior choice. They hold more paint, resist_ bristles bending, and clean up effortlessly with water.
For smaller projects or touching up, a compact paintbrush around 2 inches wide will suffice. For larger areas, a 3-4 inch brush will provide broad coverage.
Remember, the correct tools are the key to unlocking the full potential of acrylic latex paint. By carefully selecting tools that match your project’s needs, you’ll elevate your painting experience and achieve stunning results that will leave you beaming with pride.
Thinner Acrylic Paint, Better Finish
When it comes to painting with acrylic latex, understanding how to thin the paint is crucial for achieving a flawless finish. Thinning refers to the process of mixing water into the paint, which reduces its viscosity and makes it easier to apply.
Understanding Viscosity
Viscosity refers to the thickness or flowability of a liquid. In the case of paint, a higher viscosity means the paint is thicker and more difficult to spread. By adding water, we reduce the viscosity, making the paint more liquid and easier to work with.
Benefits of Thinning Acrylic Latex Paint
Thinning acrylic latex paint offers several benefits, including:
- Improved Flow and Spreadability: Thinner paint flows more easily, allowing you to spread it evenly across the surface with less effort.
- Better Penetration: Thinned paint penetrates the surface better, ensuring better adhesion and coverage.
- Reduced Brushing and Rolling Marks: Thinning helps eliminate brush or roller marks, resulting in a smoother, more professional-looking finish.
- Reduced Paint Waste: Thinner paint produces less spatter and drips, minimizing paint waste.
How to Thin Acrylic Latex Paint
Thinning acrylic latex paint is a simple process. Simply add small amounts of water to the paint while stirring thoroughly. Start with a 10-20% ratio of water to paint and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired consistency.
Remember, it’s better to add water gradually than all at once. Adding too much water can make the paint too thin, compromising its coverage and durability.
Tips for Thinning Acrylic Latex Paint
- Use clean water to avoid contaminating the paint.
- Stir the paint thoroughly after adding water to ensure even mixing.
- Test the consistency of the paint before applying it to the surface.
- If the paint is still too thick, add more water in small increments.
- If the paint becomes too thin, add a small amount of paint to thicken it back up.
By following these tips, you can easily thin acrylic latex paint to achieve the perfect consistency for flawless painting results.
Using Latex Paint Thinner: Enhancing Durability and Reducing Cleanup
In the realm of painting, acrylic latex paint reigns supreme, offering an array of benefits that traditional paints cannot match. However, for those seeking an even more robust finish and effortless cleanup, latex paint thinner emerges as an indispensable tool.
Unveiling the Benefits of Latex Paint Thinner
Latex paint thinner is a specially formulated solution that, when added to acrylic latex paint, performs a transformative alchemy. It enhances the paint’s durability, creating a more resilient surface that can withstand wear and tear without succumbing to cracking or peeling. This fortified layer provides lasting protection for your walls and ceilings, ensuring their pristine appearance for years to come.
Moreover, latex paint thinner possesses the remarkable ability to reduce cleanup time, making it an invaluable ally for painters of all skill levels. Its cleansing properties dissolve paint residue left on brushes and rollers with minimal effort, leaving them clean and ready for future use. Gone are the days of scrubbing and soaking, allowing you to complete your projects with newfound ease.
Tips for Using Latex Paint Thinner
When incorporating latex paint thinner into your painting arsenal, it’s essential to adhere to a few simple guidelines to maximize its benefits. First and foremost, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, ensuring the correct proportions of thinner to paint. Adding too much thinner can compromise the paint’s desired consistency and integrity.
To achieve an optimal balance between durability and workability, most experts recommend diluting the paint with 10-20% thinner. This ratio provides the perfect blend of enhanced strength and ease of application. For larger projects, it’s advisable to test the mixture on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface, ensuring it meets your expectations.
A Journey Made Simpler
With latex paint thinner as your companion, painting projects transform from arduous chores into effortless endeavors. Its ability to boost durability safeguards your walls and ceilings, while its cleanup-reducing properties liberate you from time-consuming scrubbing. Embrace the power of latex paint thinner and elevate your painting experience to new heights of efficiency and satisfaction.
Back-Brushing: The Secret to a Smooth, Professional-Looking Finish
Have you ever admired the smooth, flawless finish of a professionally painted wall, wondering how you could achieve the same result? The secret lies in a technique known as back-brushing.
Back-brushing is the art of lightly brushing over a freshly painted surface in the opposite direction of the original brushstrokes. This technique helps to even out the paint application, removing any visible brush marks and creating a uniform, velvety-smooth finish.
The key to successful back-brushing is to work quickly and lightly. Hold the brush parallel to the surface, with the bristles just barely grazing the paint. Brush over the area in short, overlapping strokes, working from one end to the other. Avoid applying too much pressure or scrubbing excessively, as this can create unwanted marks or streaks.
For larger surfaces, back-rolling is a similar technique that uses a roller instead of a brush. The roller helps to spread the paint more evenly and quickly, making it ideal for covering large areas with a smooth finish.
Back-brushing and back-rolling are essential techniques for achieving a professional-grade paint job. By following these simple steps, you can transform your walls from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a smooth, polished finish that will enhance the beauty and value of your home.
Back-Rolling: A Technique for a Perfectly Smooth Finish
When it comes to achieving a flawless painted surface, every detail matters. Back-rolling is an essential technique that can elevate your painting game and leave you with a finish that looks professionally done. Similar to its counterpart, back-brushing, back-rolling employs a roller to remove brushstrokes and create an ultra-smooth surface, but it’s specifically tailored for larger areas.
The essence of back-rolling lies in its ability to flatten the paint, reducing the visibility of brush marks or any uneven application. This technique is particularly effective on surfaces that require a uniform, smooth finish, such as walls, ceilings, and cabinets. It’s also a great way to blend in any repairs or touch-ups, making them virtually undetectable.
To master back-rolling, follow these simple steps:
- Load your roller: Apply a generous amount of acrylic latex paint to your roller, ensuring even coverage from end to end.
- Roll once: Start by applying the paint in a single, even stroke. Avoid overworking the paint or pressing too hard.
- Roll back: Immediately after the initial roll, roll back over the same area, using light pressure and overlapping your previous stroke. This motion helps to level out the paint, removing any ridges or brushstrokes.
- Repeat: Continue back-rolling until you achieve the desired smoothness. You may need to adjust the pressure or number of strokes depending on the surface and paint viscosity.
- Let it dry: Allow the paint to dry completely before touching up or applying additional coats.
Back-rolling is a technique that requires a bit of practice, but once you master it, you’ll be able to create a flawlessly smooth and professional-looking painted finish. Embrace this technique, and your painting projects will reach new heights of excellence.
Mist Coat: Applying a thin layer of paint to seal the surface and improve adhesion.
Mist Coat: Priming Perfection for Smooth Painting
In the world of painting, a mist coat is like a magical primer that prepares the canvas for a flawless masterpiece. It’s a thin layer of paint applied before the main painting begins, serving a vital role in enhancing adhesion and setting the stage for a smooth, even finish.
Similar to the foundation of a house, a mist coat provides a solid base for subsequent paint layers. When applied to raw or unpainted surfaces, it seals porous areas, preventing paint from being absorbed too deeply. This ensures that the paint adheres properly, reducing the risk of peeling, blistering, or flaking in the future.
The thickness of the mist coat is crucial. It shouldn’t be too thick, as this can create a lumpy or uneven surface. Rather, it should be just thin enough to penetrate the surface and provide a light seal. A slightly diluted version of the actual paint, typically with a 5:1 water-to-paint ratio, works well for most surfaces.
Once the mist coat has dried completely, it acts as a bonding agent for the main paint layers. The slightly sticky surface allows the paint to adhere more effectively, preventing it from smudging or rubbing off. This results in a firmer, longer-lasting finish.
Applying a mist coat is a simple and worthwhile step that can significantly improve the quality and longevity of your paint job. So, before reaching for the roller or brush, don’t skip the mist coat. It’s the secret ingredient for a smooth, beautiful, and worry-free painting experience.
Acrylic Latex Paint: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Acrylic Latex Paint
Acrylic latex paint, a popular choice for interior and exterior projects, boasts several advantages over other paint types. Its water-based composition, made from acrylic resin, water, and pigments, makes it easy to clean and dries quickly.
Essential Tools and Materials
For a seamless painting experience, gather the necessary tools: brushes and rollers of varying sizes, a paint tray, and a drop cloth. Choose tools based on the project’s scale and surface type.
Painting Techniques for Flawless Results
Unlock professional-looking finishes with these techniques:
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Thinning with Water: Adjust the paint’s viscosity by adding water, ensuring smooth application and improved adhesion.
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Using Latex Paint Thinner: Extend the paint’s durability and reduce cleanup time by introducing latex paint thinner.
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Back-Brushing and Back-Rolling: Remove brushstrokes and create a smooth surface by lightly brushing or rolling over the dried paint.
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Mist Coat: Apply a thin layer of paint to seal the surface, enhancing subsequent paint adhesion.
Drying Time and Cleanup
Drying Time: Acrylic latex paint typically dries within a few hours, varying depending on temperature and humidity. Allow adequate time for drying before handling or touching the surface.
Cleanup: Clean brushes and rollers promptly after use. Warm, soapy water or a recommended solvent can effectively remove paint residue.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter paint problems like peeling, bubbling, or cracking, determine the underlying causes:
- Improper surface preparation
- Moisture infiltration
- Incompatible primer or paint type
Resolve issues by addressing the root cause and following recommended repair procedures.
Special Tips and Tricks
Unlock additional benefits with these tips:
- Use acrylic latex paint on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete.
- Experiment with advanced techniques to achieve unique textures or finishes.
- Prioritize safety by wearing appropriate clothing and following environmental guidelines.
Acrylic Latex Paint: A Guide to Perfect Painting
Acrylic latex paint is a popular choice for home improvement projects due to its durability, ease of use, and low odor. It’s made from a combination of acrylic resin, water, and pigments. Acrylic resin creates a tough and water-resistant film, while water makes the paint easy to apply and clean up. Pigments provide the color.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you start painting, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Paintbrushes: Choose brushes with a variety of sizes and shapes for different areas.
- Rollers: Use rollers with different nap sizes for different surfaces and textures.
- Paint trays: Use trays to hold the paint.
- Drop cloths: Protect floors and furniture from paint drips.
Painting Techniques for Perfect Results
- Adding Water: To adjust the viscosity of the paint, add small amounts of water.
- Using Latex Paint Thinner: Enhance durability and reduce cleanup time by using latex paint thinner.
- Back-Brushing: Remove brushstrokes and create a smoother finish by lightly brushing over the wet paint in the opposite direction of the original brushstrokes.
- Back-Rolling: Similar to back-brushing, but using a roller for larger surfaces.
- Mist Coat: Apply a thin layer of paint to seal the surface and improve adhesion.
Drying Time and Cleanup
Acrylic latex paint usually dries in 1-2 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use with warm water and soap.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Paint Peeling: Caused by improper surface preparation, moisture, or incompatible primers.
- Bubbling: Result of air bubbles trapped under the paint.
- Cracking: Occurs when the paint film dries too quickly or is too thick.
Special Tips and Tricks
- Use acrylic latex paint on various surfaces including wood, metal, and concrete.
- Achieve specific textures or finishes with glazing, stippling, or faux painting techniques.
- Ensure a safe painting environment by wearing a mask and opening windows for ventilation.
Follow these tips to achieve professional-looking results with acrylic latex paint, transforming your home into a masterpiece of color and style.
Understanding the Causes of Paint Peeling, Bubbling, or Cracking
When you embark on a painting project, your vision is to create a flawless finish that will beautify your space. However, sometimes things don’t go as planned, and you encounter the dreaded paint peeling, bubbling, or cracking. These imperfections can leave you frustrated, questioning what went wrong.
To help you troubleshoot these common painting problems, let’s delve into the root causes and explore practical solutions:
Peeling Paint
Peeling paint is often caused by inadequate surface preparation or incompatible paint types. Ensure that the surface you’re painting is clean, dry, and free of dirt or debris. Use a primer to create a proper bond between the old and new paint. Additionally, choosing the right paint for the surface material is crucial. For example, latex paint is not suitable for exterior surfaces that require enamel or oil-based paints.
Bubbling Paint
Bubbling paint can be a result of trapped moisture or air bubbles. If the surface is not completely dry before painting, water vapor can become trapped, leading to blisters. To prevent this, allow ample time for the surface to dry thoroughly. Additionally, stir the paint thoroughly and use a brush or roller gently to avoid creating unnecessary air bubbles.
Cracking Paint
Cracking paint is typically caused by extreme temperature fluctuations or improper paint application. If the paint is applied too thickly, it may not have enough time to cure properly and can become brittle. Avoid applying thick layers and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Temperature changes, such as sudden drops in temperature after painting, can also cause the paint to contract and crack. Ensure a stable temperature during and after painting.
By understanding the root causes of paint peeling, bubbling, or cracking and taking these preventive measures, you can ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish for your painting projects.
Troubleshooting Common Issues: Resolving Painting Problems
Paint Peeling: This frustrating issue occurs when the paint fails to adhere properly to the surface. The culprit is often inadequate surface preparation. Ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned, sanded, and primed to create a strong bond for the paint. Proper sanding removes dirt, grease, and imperfections, while priming seals the surface and enhances adhesion.
Bubbling: Air pockets trapped under the paint can cause pesky bubbles. The cause? Applying paint too thickly. To avoid this, thin the paint slightly with water or use a paint thinner, and apply multiple thin coats. Avoid rolling or brushing too quickly, as this can incorporate air into the paint. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
Cracking: Cracks can appear due to excessive paint shrinkage, caused by applying paint that’s too thick or painting over surfaces that haven’t completely dried. Sanding the cracked areas and repainting with several thin coats can remedy this issue. If the cracks are deep, you may need to fill them with a flexible crack filler before repainting.
Acrylic Latex Paint for Diverse Surfaces: A Versatile Solution
Acrylic latex paint is an incredibly adaptable solution for a wide range of painting projects. Its versatility extends beyond its use on walls and ceilings to include various surfaces, making it a go-to choice for home improvement enthusiasts and professional painters alike.
Surfacing the Differences: Adapting to Unique Materials
Whether it’s wood, metal, or concrete, acrylic latex paint seamlessly adapts to the specific needs of each surface. Its unique composition, combining acrylic resin with water and pigments, provides excellent adhesion and durability, ensuring a long-lasting finish.
Wood: A Warm and Inviting Canvas
For wooden surfaces, acrylic latex paint acts as a protective barrier, shielding it from moisture and wear. Its rich color palette and smooth finish enhance the natural beauty of the wood, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
Metal: A Gleaming Reflection of Precision
On metal surfaces, acrylic latex paint provides a resilient coating that resists rust and corrosion. Its impermeable nature safeguards the metal from moisture and environmental factors, maintaining its pristine finish and structural integrity.
Concrete: A Blank Slate for Creative Expression
Acrylic latex paint transforms concrete surfaces into vibrant canvases for creative expression. It effectively conceals imperfections and adds a decorative touch to patios, driveways, and more. Its durable formula withstands heavy foot traffic and exposure to the elements, ensuring a long-lasting masterpiece.
Advanced Techniques for Exceptional Finishes
In addition to its versatility across surfaces, acrylic latex paint allows for advanced techniques to achieve specific effects and textures.
- Stippling: Create subtle texture by gently tapping a brush or sponge against the wet paint surface.
- Ragging: Use a rag to create a distressed, antiqued look by dabbing or dragging it across the paint.
- Glazing: Apply thin layers of paint in varying opacities to create depth and visual interest.
Safety and Sustainability: Protecting the Environment and Yourself
When working with acrylic latex paint, safety precautions are paramount. Always wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure adequate ventilation in the area. Acrylic latex paint is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a more environmentally friendly option. Its water-based formula also allows for easy cleanup, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Advanced Techniques for Artistic Masterpieces with Acrylic Latex Paint
Embarking on a painting journey with acrylic latex paint opens up a world of possibilities to unleash your creativity. While mastering the basics is essential, elevating your skills with advanced techniques will transform your projects into true masterpieces.
One such technique, dry brushing, allows you to create a weathered or distressed effect. Load a dry brush with a small amount of paint and gently brush it over the surface, leaving behind subtle traces of color that simulate age or wear.
For a more dynamic look, experiment with scumbling. Apply a semi-transparent layer of paint over a previous layer that has already dried. This technique adds depth and complexity to your work, evoking a sense of movement or atmospheric effects.
If you seek a textured finish, consider impasto painting. Mix paint with a thickening medium to create a thick, paste-like consistency. Apply it generously and allow it to form visible brushstrokes that add a dimensional element to your canvas.
For even more artistic flair, explore the realm of glazing. Dilute paint with water or a medium to achieve a thin, translucent consistency. Apply multiple layers of glaze, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This technique creates a luminous, ethereal effect that captivates the eye.
Remember, these techniques are not merely rules but tools that empower you to express your artistic vision. Experiment with different combinations and variations to discover the limitless possibilities of acrylic latex paint. Unleash your imagination and let your creativity soar!
Safety Precautions and Environmental Considerations When Using Acrylic Latex Paint
Keep it Safe:
When painting with acrylic latex paint, safety should be your top priority. Keep the area well-ventilated, as paint fumes can be irritating. Wear protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a mask if necessary. Ensure children and pets are kept away from the paint.
Environmental Care:
Acrylic latex paint is generally environmentally friendly, but it’s essential to dispose of it properly. Never pour paint down the drain or dump it in the trash. Check with your local government for specific disposal guidelines. Leftover paint can often be donated to community centers or paint recycling programs.
Safe Disposal:
If you need to dispose of brushes or rollers, do not rinse them with water. Instead, wrap them in newspaper and allow them to dry before disposing of them in the trash. Avoid using chemical solvents or thinners for cleanup, as they can be harmful to the environment. Instead, opt for water-based cleaners specifically designed for paint cleanup.
By following these precautions, you can enjoy painting with acrylic latex paint while keeping yourself and the environment safe.
