Getting ready to paint your walls? Proper preparation is key to achieving that flawless finish you’re dreaming of. Whether you’re going the DIY route or hiring a professional painting service, making sure your walls are properly prepped is the first step in any successful interior painting project. This article outlines 7 essential steps and guides on prepping your walls for painting. Read on!

Step 1: Clear and Protect the Area

Before you start painting, it is of utmost importance to prepare your space by clearing the room and protecting the areas you don’t want to paint. Begin by removing all furniture away from walls and placing it in the center of the room. If possible, move smaller items to another room entirely. This will give you ample space to move around and access the walls for interior house painting. Once the furniture is out of the way, cover the floors and remaining furniture with a drop cloth to protect them from paint drips and splatters.

If you’re painting the entire wall, don’t forget to cover the light switches, door frames, and other fixtures with painter’s tape. This step will greatly simplify the process and ensure clean, sharp edges when you start painting. For those who wish to paint baseboards and trim, make sure they are also covered or taped off. Taking the time to properly protect these areas will help you achieve a professional finish with minimal clean-up.

Step 2: Clean the Walls for Painting 

Cleaning the walls is a step that many people overlook, but it is essential for good paint adhesion. Before you apply any primer or paint, you’ll want to ensure that your walls are free of dirt, grease, and grime. Start by dusting the walls with a dry cloth to remove any loose particles. For more stubborn stains, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, use a sponge with a mild detergent or a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe down the walls. Be sure to clean the entire wall surface, paying special attention to high-traffic areas where fingerprints and other marks are common.

If your walls have been previously painted with gloss paint or have accumulated a lot of residue over the years, you may need to use a piece of sandpaper to lightly sand the surface. This will help the new paint adhere better and reduce the chance of peeling or chipping in the future. Once the walls are clean and smooth, allow them to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Remember, proper wall preparation is the foundation of a successful paint job.

Step 3: Repair and Patch Any Damaged Wall Surfaces 

Inspecting your walls for damage and making necessary repairs is another important aspect of interior house painting preparation you should not skip. Small holes, cracks, and dents can be easily fixed with a patch and some spackling compound. Start by using a putty knife to apply the compound to any holes or imperfections in the walls. Smooth it out with the knife, then allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once dry, sand the patched areas with sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish.

If you’re dealing with larger cracks or holes, you may need to apply a patch. For drywall, use a drywall patch and joint compound to cover the damage, then sand it smooth once it’s dry. If this is beyond your abilities, you may want to consult a professional house painter or contractor for advice on how to proceed. Proper wall repair will not only improve the appearance of your painted walls but also ensure that your paint job lasts longer.

Step 4: Remove Old Paint and Wallpaper

Before you can apply a fresh coat of new paint, you may need to remove old paint or wallpaper from your walls. If you have peeling or flaking paint, use a scraper or putty knife to remove the loose paint. For more stubborn areas, you might need to sand the surface with sandpaper to create a smooth finish. Removing old paint is especially important if you’re switching from oil-based paint to latex or if the old paint is in poor condition.

If your walls are covered in wallpaper, you’ll need to remove it before painting. Use a wallpaper remover solution or a steamer to loosen the adhesive, then carefully peel the wallpaper away from the wall. Be sure to remove any remaining adhesive residue with a sponge and water. Once the wallpaper is removed, allow the walls to dry completely before moving on to priming. Removing old paint and wallpaper ensures that your new paint will adhere properly and gives you a clean slate to work with.

Step 5: Apply Primer on the Walls

Priming the walls is a step that should not be skipped, especially if you’re painting over a dark color or applying paint to a new, unpainted surface. Primer helps to seal the wall surface, provides a uniform base for the paint, and enhances the adhesion of the paint to the wall. It also helps to cover any repairs you’ve made and blocks stains from bleeding through the new paint.

Choose a primer that is appropriate for your surface and the type of paint you plan to use. Apply the primer with a roller, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a brush to cut in around edges of the ceiling, door frames, and other areas that are difficult to reach with a roller. Allow the primer to dry completely before you start painting. If you’re painting a high-gloss finish or over a surface that has been previously painted with oil-based paint, you’ll want to ensure that the primer is compatible with your chosen paint.

Step 6: Sand and Smooth the Surface

After priming, it is important to sand the walls again to achieve a smooth finish. Even with primer, the wall surface may have slight imperfections or texture that could affect the final paint job. Use a fine-grit piece of sandpaper to lightly sand the entire wall, focusing on areas that feel rough or uneven. Sanding between coats of primer and paint is especially important if you’re painting interior walls with a high-gloss or semi-gloss finish, as these finishes highlight any imperfections on the surface.

Once you’ve finished sanding, wipe down the walls with a dry cloth to remove any dust. This step is crucial to ensuring that your paint goes on smoothly and adheres well to the wall. If you want to achieve a smooth, professional finish, don’t skip this step. Sanding and cleaning the walls between coats of primer and paint is the secret to a flawless paint job that looks great and lasts.

Step 7: Start Painting 

Now that your walls are prepped and primed, you’re ready to start painting. Choose a quality paint that is appropriate for the room you’re painting. For example, in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, you may want to use a paint with a mildew-resistant formula. For living rooms and bedrooms, a durable, washable finish is often a good choice.

When you’re ready to paint, start from the top and work your way down. Begin by cutting in around the edges of the ceiling, door frames, and trim with a brush. Then, use a roller to apply the paint to the walls. Apply the paint in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the color and type of paint you’re using, you may need to apply two or more coats to achieve full coverage.

Once you’ve finished painting, remove the painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly wet to prevent peeling. Allow the paint to cure fully before moving furniture back and hanging artwork or decor on the walls.

Conclusion

Proper preparation is the key to a successful interior painting project. By following these 7 simple steps, you can ensure that your walls are ready to receive a fresh coat of paint and that your finished project looks professional and polished. From clearing and protecting the area to priming and sanding the walls, each step plays a crucial role in the overall success of your painting job. Whether you’re hiring professional house painters or tackling the project yourself, taking the time to prep your home will save you time and frustration in the long run. So, before you start painting, be sure to follow this guide to preparing your house for interior painting and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.

Ready to transform your living space into a safe haven for yourself and family? Trust Final Finish Painting to deliver a smooth, professional finish. Contact us today to begin your transformation!