Written by Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Painted Walls
Preparing Walls for Painting: Walls are typically covered with layers of paint that may have accumulated over time.
Sanding painted walls focuses on smoothing the surface and removing imperfections.
The wall needs a texture that the new paint will adhere to. The goal: To create an even, clean surface for repainting.
Preparing Walls for Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide
A fresh coat of paint can transform a room, but if you don’t prep your walls properly, you risk peeling paint, visible imperfections, or uneven coverage.
Whether revamping a thrifted piece of furniture, upcycling an old wooden crate, or giving your walls a facelift, good prep is key to a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Preparation:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you get started, make sure you have:
- Drop cloths or plastic sheets
- Painter’s tape
- Sponge and mild detergent
- Sandpaper or sanding block (medium and fine grit)
- Putty knife and spackle or filler
- Primer
- Paintbrushes and rollers
2. Clear & Protect the Area
Move furniture out of the way or cover it with drop cloths. Tape off trim, windows, and any fixtures you don’t want painted. Remove outlet covers and light switch plates for a cleaner finish.
3. Clean the Walls
- Dust, dirt, and grease can prevent paint from sticking properly. Wash the walls with a damp sponge and mild detergent, then rinse with clean water.
- For kitchen or bathroom walls you may need a degreaser
- Let the walls dry completely before moving to the next step.
Repair Imperfections
Small holes, cracks, or dents will stand out once you paint over them. Use spackle or filler to patch holes, then smooth with a putty knife. Let it dry, then sand until flush with the wall. If you have larger cracks, consider using caulk for flexibility.
Sand the Walls
- Sanding smooths out rough spots and helps the paint adhere better.
- Lightly sand any patched areas and glossy surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper.
- Wipe away dust with a damp cloth or tack cloth.
Apply Primer
Primer evens out the wall’s surface and helps the paint go on smoothly. It’s especially important if you’re:
- Covering a dark or bright colour with a lighter one
- Painting over patches or repairs
- Painting a high-moisture area like a bathroom
- Let the primer dry completely before moving on.
Final Check
Look over your walls one last time for any missed spots or dust. A well-prepped wall makes painting easier and gives you a professional-looking result.
Now you’re ready to paint! With the prep work done, your walls are primed (literally) for a fresh, flawless finish.
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