Painting is a manageable home improvement project for DIYers. But to get a truly professional-looking finish, preparation is the most important step. This Old House painting expert, Mauro Henrique, shares why preparation is necessary for a great paint job.
Why Preparation Matters in Painting
Henrique, a seasoned painting expert, believes that 85% of a painting project is in the prep work. Having a smooth surface to work with and protecting surrounding areas will make your paint job much easier.
Creating a Smooth Surface
A well-prepared surface is necessary for proper paint adhesion. Any imperfections, dirt, or debris on the surface can lead to an uneven finish or cause the paint to peel. Properly preparing your surface with cleaning and sanding creates a better canvas for your paint to adhere to.
Protecting Surrounding Areas
Preparation isn’t just about the surface, it’s also about protecting everything else in the room. Proper prep work includes covering floors, furniture, and fixtures that can’t be moved, saving you from potential cleanup and damage from accidental splatters or drips.
Saving Time and Money in the Long Run
While it may be tempting to skip prep work if you want the paint job to be finished quickly, this can lead to disappointing results and the need for touch-ups or complete repainting. Investing time in proper preparation will give you a longer-lasting, higher-quality finish that won’t require frequent touch-ups or repainting.
Steps in Paint Preparation
To get the best results, follow the proper cleaning, taping, and protection steps before you start painting walls.
Cleaning the Surface
The first step in paint preparation is cleaning the surface you’ll be painting. This involves removing dust and cobwebs with a dry cloth or vacuum and washing the surface with a cleaner to remove grease, grime, and other contaminants. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding. Clean the surrounding area as well to prevent debris from getting in wet paint.
Using Painter’s Tape Effectively
Painter’s tape is necessary for protecting surrounding surfaces that won’t be painted. They also secure drop cloths and make paper. Painter’s tape makes creating clean, straight lines between different colors or surfaces much easier. When using painter’s tape, press down the edges firmly to create a good seal and prevent paint bleed.
Employing Drop Cloths and Protective Coverings
Protecting your surroundings is just as important as cleaning and applying painter’s tape. Use thin plastic sheets for delicate furniture and place heavy-duty canvas drop cloths on your floors. Cover all fixtures, hardware, and other items that can’t be removed from the space.
Advanced Painting Preparation Techniques
There are a few more advanced techniques you can use to prepare your space for painting if you want a truly professional-looking finish.
Repairing Surface Imperfections
Before painting, address any imperfections on your walls. Fill small holes and cracks with a spackling compound and sand down rough areas to create a smooth surface. If you’re painting on a wooden surface, use wood filler on larger gaps or damaged areas.
Priming the Surface
Priming can improve paint adhesion and covers, especially on bare or previously unpainted surfaces. You should use a primer when painting over a dark color with a lighter one if you’re working with porous surfaces like new drywall, or if you need to cover any stains or odors.
Managing Humidity and Temperature
Environmental factors can affect paint application and drying. To get the best results, paint in a well-ventilated area, avoid painting in humid conditions, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for ideal temperature ranges.
Choosing the Right Painting Tools and Materials
The quality of the tools you use can impact your results. Use high-quality painter’s tape and durable drop cloths that would slip or allow the paint to seep through. Purchase the appropriate cleaning solution for the surface you’re working with and use quality sandpaper in various grits.
The Role of Quality Paint in Preparation
While preparation is important, the paint quality used also plays a role in the overall outcome of your DIY project. High-quality paints have better coverage, durability, and finishes. They also often require fewer coats, which can save time and effort during your project.
When selecting paint, determine the specific surface you’re painting, the desired finish you want, and how much wear and tear your room experiences. This can help you decide the exact type of paint you want and need for the project.
Expert Tips for DIY Painters
If you’re taking on this project yourself, there are a few tips that experts follow to help the process run smoothly. Work in sections, dividing large areas into smaller sections to manage the workload, especially if you’re painting a bigger room. Keep a wet edge to avoid visible lines, overlapping strokes slightly with each pass.
You also need to use the right techniques for the brush and roller to apply the paint evenly and minimize streaks. Pay attention to drying times, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times between coats to achieve a durable finish.
Paint Environmental Considerations
Proper paint preparation isn’t just about durability but also environmental aspects. Using high-quality materials can help to minimize weight and reduce the environmental impact of your project, especially when painting outside.
Choose low-VOC or VOC-free (volatile organic compounds) paints as they’re more eco-friendly and healthier for indoor air quality. Recycle or dispose of used materials like painter’s tape, plastic sheeting, and empty paint cans. Measure and mix paint accurately to avoid having excess, reducing waste. Taking these steps can give you a better result while contributing to a healthier environment, both inside and outside.