Preparing walls for paint is essential for achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish, and Scholar’s Edge Painting knows just how important that preparation is. Here’s a comprehensive guide for how Scholar’s Edge Painting recommends preparing interior walls for painting:

Clear the Room

Begin by removing all furniture, wall decorations, and other items from the room. Cover the floor with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect it from paint splatters and spills. Carefully examine the walls for any damage, such as cracks, holes, or peeling paint. Note any areas that need repair. Fill small holes and cracks with spackling compound. For larger holes, use a patching compound or drywall repair kit. Once the compound is dry, sand the repaired areas with fine-grit sandpaper until smooth. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.

Clean the Walls

Dust the walls with a dry cloth or duster to remove any loose dirt or debris. Wash the walls with a mild detergent and water to remove grease, grime, and any stains. Use a sponge or cloth dampened with the cleaning solution, and rinse with clean water. Allow the walls to dry completely before painting.

Remove Existing Wallpaper or Peeling Paint (if applicable)

If the walls have wallpaper, use a wallpaper steamer or remover solution to loosen the adhesive and peel off the wallpaper. Scrape away any remaining adhesive with a putty knife, and then wash the walls as described above. If there is peeling or flaking paint, use a paint scraper or putty knife to remove the loose paint. Sand the edges of the remaining paint until smooth, and then wash the walls.

Protect Fixtures and Trim

Use painter’s tape to mask off areas that you don’t want to paint, such as trim, baseboards, and around fixtures like switches and outlets.

Sand Glossy Surfaces (if needed)

If the walls have a glossy or slick finish, lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface and help the paint adhere better. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.

Apply Primer (if needed)

Depending on the condition of the walls and the type of paint you’re using, you may need to apply a coat of primer before painting. Primer helps to seal the surface, improve paint adhesion, and prevent stains from bleeding through. Use a primer that is compatible with both the walls and the paint you’ll be using.

Allow the Primer to Dry

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time before painting over the primer. This usually takes a few hours or longer depending on the type of primer used and the humidity level.

Ready for Painting

Once you’ve completed these steps, Scholar’s Edge Painting believes your walls should be properly prepared and ready for painting. Taking the time to prepare the walls thoroughly will ensure a professional-looking finish and help the paint adhere better for long-lasting results.