How to prep walls before painting (and why it's most of the job)

Ask any painter what separates a finish that lasts from one that peels in a year, and they’ll tell you the same thing: it’s the prep, not the paint.

The prep sequence

Clean — dust, grease, and grime keep paint from bonding. Walls get wiped down first.
Repair — nail holes, cracks, dents, and water damage are patched and, where needed, re-textured to match the surrounding wall.
Sand — smoothing patches and scuffing glossy areas so the new coat can grip.
Caulk — sealing gaps at trim, corners, and transitions for crisp, clean lines.
Prime — spot-priming repairs (or full priming on bare or stained surfaces) so the finish coat goes on even.

Protecting the space

Prep also means protecting everything that isn’t getting painted — floors, furniture, fixtures, and hardware get masked and covered before any color goes up. A clean job site is part of the craft.

Want the work done right from the prep up? Request a quote and we’ll put together a written scope.