Whether you're doing prep work yourself before your painter arrives, or just want to understand what proper prep involves, here's what goes into getting walls ready for paint.
Clean the Surface
Dust, grease (especially in kitchens), and general grime prevent paint from adhering properly. Walls should be wiped down with a mild detergent solution and allowed to dry fully before any painting begins.
Repair Damage
Nail holes, dents, and cracks need to be filled with spackle or joint compound, sanded smooth once dry, and spot-primed. Skipping this step means every imperfection shows through the new paint, especially under certain lighting.
Sand Glossy or Uneven Surfaces
Paint adheres poorly to glossy surfaces. A light scuff-sanding gives new paint something to grip, particularly important when painting over semi-gloss or high-gloss trim and doors.
Protect What You're Not Painting
Floors, furniture, light fixtures, and outlet covers should be covered or removed. Painter's tape along trim, ceiling lines, and baseboards creates clean, crisp edges.
Prime When Necessary
Bare drywall repairs, dramatic color changes (especially dark to light), water stains, and surfaces that have never been painted all benefit from a primer coat before the finish color goes on.
Why Professional Crews Don't Skip This
Surface prep is the least visible part of a paint job and the most important for how long it lasts. A rushed paint job over inadequate prep might look fine on day one but will show every flaw — and fail early — within a year or two.
Ready for a Free Estimate?
Riverflow Brush Painting serves Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Greenacres, and Otis Orchards. Every estimate is free, in-person, and obligation-free.
📞 Call (509) 852-8545