How to prepare walls for painting

Why Wall Prep Matters

Professional painters know that proper wall preparation is the foundation of a lasting, beautiful paint job. Skipping or rushing prep work leads to peeling paint, visible imperfections, and premature wear. While prep takes time, it ensures your investment in new paint delivers years of flawless finish.

Complete Wall Prep Process

1. Clear the room and protect surfaces

Remove or center furniture, cover floors with drop cloths, and protect fixtures with painter's tape. This creates a safe, efficient workspace and prevents damage to your belongings.

2. Clean walls thoroughly

Use a degreaser or TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute to remove dirt, grease, and grime. Pay special attention to kitchen walls and high-traffic areas. Rinse with clean water and allow walls to dry completely — usually 24 hours.

3. Repair holes and cracks

Fill nail holes and small cracks with spackling compound. For larger holes (over 1 inch), use joint compound in multiple thin layers, allowing each to dry before applying the next. Once dry, sand repairs flush with the wall surface using 120-grit sandpaper.

4. Sand the entire surface

Lightly sand walls with 150-grit sandpaper to create texture for paint adhesion and smooth any rough spots. After sanding, wipe down walls with a damp cloth to remove dust.

5. Prime strategically

Apply primer to:

• All repaired areas to prevent flashing (visible patches where sheen differs)
• Stained or discolored spots to block tannins and prevent bleed-through
• Bare drywall or new walls
• Drastic color changes (dark to light)

6. Final inspection

Before painting, inspect your work under bright light. Look for missed imperfections, ensure all repairs are smooth, and verify primer has covered all necessary areas.

Recommended Materials

• Degreaser or TSP substitute
• Spackling compound (small repairs)
• Joint compound (large repairs)
• 120-grit and 150-grit sandpaper
• Quality primer (we recommend Zinsser or Kilz)
• Drop cloths and painter's tape