Internal wall painting is one of the most popular home improvement projects. A fresh coat of paint can make a difference in the look and feel of your interior space.
Proper wall preparation is critical to achieving desired results. To help you out, we have put together a step-by-step guide to prep your internal walls before painting.
Clean Your Walls
Washing your walls will remove dust, stains, cobwebs, grime, and other contaminants that can prevent the paint from adhering. Wash the walls with a homemade cleaning solution of approximately three teaspoons of laundry detergent to one gallon of water.
If you have wallpaper on the walls, remove it and clean the walls thoroughly. If mold is in your walls, apply an anti-mold solution to the affected area. After washing your walls, give them a quick rinse, and allow them to dry.
Remove Old Paint
Using a paint scraper and sandpaper, remove cracked or flaking paint to smooth the surface. For large areas, use an electric sander.
Repair Damaged Areas
Repairing the damaged areas will prevent the recurrence of problems. To achieve your desired results:
- Find imperfections and address them before painting and priming your walls
- Remove the old plaster
- Fill the gaps around your windows and doors with a high-quality sealant
Some imperfections are easily visible, while others aren’t. Use a utility light to spot such flaws. Mark any flaws you notice. Use sandpaper to smooth these imperfections away.
Use Lining Paper
In many cases, using lining paper won’t do much good. If, however, your walls have lots of fine cracks or large damaged areas, lining paper can help create a smooth base for your paint.
Priming
A primer is a preparatory coating applied on surfaces to prepare them for painting. There are several benefits of priming. Priming seals pores, covers unsightly imperfections and marks, helps block out stains and odors, and extends the life of your paint.
After preparing your walls:
- Cover the surfaces you don’t plan to paint.
- Dampen your paintbrush or paint roller.
- Outline your walls with a 2-3 inch band around the edges.
- Apply the primer at all points where the walls, molding, and ceilings meet.
- Brush the primer on areas that need special attention.
- Dip your roller into the primer and apply it in 3X3-foot sections.
After the primer dries, lightly sand away bumps.
Mike Chavez Painting is a top-rated painting contractor near you. Our pros leverage their expertise to create value for our customers. We use time-tested techniques designed to make paint jobs last longer. To make an appointment, call 707-623-5850.
Mike Chavez is the Owner and Founder of Mike Chavez Painting, an award-winning residential and commercial painting company based in Santa Rosa, California. He launched the business in 2008 and has grown it into one of the most recognized painting contractors in Northern California. Known for his commitment to excellence and community involvement, Mike has been featured in multiple media outlets and was named the 2016 Business Person of the Year by the Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce. He has also been recognized nationally by platforms like Yelp for outstanding customer service and leadership in the trades. Mike actively advocates for skilled trades and entrepreneurship, often sharing his insights on hiring, leadership, and craftsmanship in the painting industry.