What is Proper Surface Preparation?

Proper surface preparation is vital for maximizing the life-span of a new paint job. When a surface is well-prepared, the paint adheres better, looks cleaner and lasts longer.

Before starting any painting project, you should always remove as much furniture as possible from the room and take off any electrical outlet covers. Also, be sure to cover the floors and any remaining furniture with a dropcloth.

The first step in surface preparation is to examine the walls for holes or crevices and to fill them in with spackle. After the paste dries, use some sand paper or a light buffer to smooth out the roughness and to make sure any old paint drips or ridges are sanded down.

The next step is to clean the walls thoroughly, making sure they are free from dust, dirt or greasy stains. A clean sponge dipped and gently squeezed in mildly soapy water is best for cleaning walls. If there are any tough spots, you may have to use a heavier cleaning product. Be sure to also wipe down the baseboards and to clear any dust or cobwebs from the corners and then to apply painters tape along the edges.

Unless you plan to use a product that works dually as a primer and paint, it is always important to prime walls before painting. Primer works as a binding layer for the wall and paint so that the finishing paint adheres better. Using tinted primers reduces the number of necessary paint coats by providing a base layer that is similar to the finishing color. Additionally, a high-quality primer will help to hide any small imperfections on the walls.

After completing these simple steps, your walls will be ready for a beautiful long-lasting paint job. If you have any further questions, call us at 301-831-3679. Hallco Enterprises has provided Montgomery, Howard and Frederick County with dependable and professional services for over 20 years. Call us today or schedule a free estimate online if you would like to put your project into capable hands.