Painting Preparation

Continuing with our painting series, today we will learn about preparation for painting. The skill level required for this preparation is in the medium level as general carpentry/repair skills are needed. In addition, it is important to know that preparation time will vary depending on different variables, including the condition of the surface that is going to be painted. Here are the basic steps:

1) The first step in paint prep is to move the furniture away from the walls. As part of this step, it is also necessary to protect the floor and to protect the baseboard. The floor can be covered with paper a drop cloth, either a polythylene sheet, canvas, or paper/poly cloth.

2)  The second step consists on repairing cracks and holes on the surface to be painted. It also consists on filling dents with crack filler. Of course, in order to have a smooth and even surface, it is important to le the crack filler dry as instructed by the manufacturer. One tip is to use wet sanding in order to reduce the dust that is produced when using a sanding plaster.

3) The third step in the painting prep is to treat any areas of mildew. To do this, remember to protect your hands by using rubber gloves. A solution of water and bleach can be enough to clean areas with mildew. A part of this step is to rinse the wall surface with clean water and to let it dry overnight.

4) In the painting prep sequence, priming is extremely important. Remember to spot prime the repaired areas. For this, you could use a latex, stain-blocking primer but for stains that bleed through, it may be necessary to use an oil-based primer. Then, apply the primer to the entire wall.

Indeed, following the right steps in painting prep is crucial to producing great results.

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