How to Prepare Your Walls for Painting
A flawless paint job doesn’t start with the brush—it starts with preparation. Skipping the prep stage is the number one reason paint peels, chips, or looks uneven. At PM Painters & Decorators, we know that the secret to a long-lasting, professional finish lies in the groundwork.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to preparing your walls properly before painting.
🔨 1. Clear the Room
Move furniture away from the walls or cover it with dust sheets. Take down pictures, mirrors, and shelves. This not only gives you space to work but also prevents accidental paint splashes.
🧹 2. Clean the Walls
Paint sticks best to a clean surface. Wipe walls down with warm, soapy water to remove dust, grease, and dirt. For kitchens, use a degreaser to tackle stubborn cooking residue. Allow the walls to dry fully.
🪚 3. Repair Cracks and Holes
Fill in any holes, dents, or cracks with quality filler. Once dry, sand the area smooth so it blends seamlessly with the rest of the wall. This step is essential for a professional-looking finish.
🪵 4. Sand the Surface
Even if your walls look smooth, lightly sanding them helps the paint grip better. Use fine-grit sandpaper, then wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.
🖌️ 5. Apply Primer
Primer creates an even base, covers stains, and ensures your chosen paint colour looks its best. It’s especially important if:
You’re painting over a dark colour
You’ve repaired patches
You’re painting fresh plaster
🎨 6. Tape and Protect
Use painter’s tape around skirting boards, door frames, and sockets for neat edges. Lay dust sheets on the floor to catch drips and splashes.
✅ 7. Now You’re Ready to Paint
With your walls fully prepped, the painting process will be faster, smoother, and more durable.
👨🎨 Why Hire a Professional?
DIY preparation can be time-consuming, and mistakes often show through once the paint is applied. At PM Painters & Decorators, we take care of everything—from sanding and filling to priming and painting—so you get a flawless, lasting finish without the hassle.
📞 Let’s Get Started
Serving homes across St Albans, Hatfield, Watford, and North London, we deliver expert painting and decorating services tailored to your needs.
📩 Get in touch today for a free quote and professional advice.
📞 Call us on +44 7877 509464