Step one is often neglected, yet essential to the success of any project: cleaning and dusting surfaces prior to painting can make all the difference in terms of smooth coverage and adhesion of paint. Even minor dirt accumulation can leave residue that hinders smooth coverage.brisbane painters

An ordinary damp cloth and mild soap or detergent will usually suffice in getting walls clean, though if there is extensive grease build-up you may require stronger measures. In such instances, professional painters recommend trisodium phosphate (TSP). Be careful when using any TSP product as this could damage surfaces as well as expose you to potentially hazardous fumes that could harm yourself as well as others nearby.

Once your walls have dried out completely, the next step in preparing them for painting should be filling any cracks and holes with filler material. Switch plates and other hardware should also be removed from the wall, followed by sanding any rough areas before applying spackling paste and further sanding afterwards.
2. Prime the Walls

Painting your house can make it feel more like home, but painting requires preparation to ensure even coverage and smooth walls. Doing this properly ensures better adhesion of paint to surfaces for even application, creating smoother walls overall.

Clean your walls before painting to get them in tiptop condition for new color applications. Washing will help get rid of grime, dust and cobwebs that might hinder paint adhering properly, while it also reveals any dings or holes which should be repaired prior to starting painting.

If you’re making dramatic changes in color, priming is also necessary. New drywall is very porous and will absorb your new paint without priming, which is why high-quality bonding primer such as Zinsser Oil-Based Cover Stain is best to prevent this from happening.

If you have recently repaired any areas on your wall with spackle, priming those spots is also necessary to prevent its ridges showing through and making your paint job appear dull.
3. Choose Your Paint

Good quality paint is essential to any successful painting project. Selecting the appropriate type and sheen (finish) of paint is key for producing professional-looking results. While most paints contain primer as part of their formula, separate dedicated primer can also help achieve superior results.

Take note of your furniture and decor to determine which colors would complement the overall scheme in your room best. When making this choice, remember more permanent features like skirting boards, architraves, doors, windows and cornicing as they will also play an integral role.

Bring some sample pots of paint with you into the room, and test them in different light environments. Keep an eye out for how different shades will appear during different times of the day and night – this way you won’t end up buying too much paint at once – the back of any paint store is often filled with returned cans from those who didn’t follow this simple rule!
4. Paint the Walls

DIY advice that often goes ignored includes the suggestion to thoroughly wash walls prior to priming and painting them, yet this step is vital for producing long-term beautiful paint jobs.

Even after washing your walls, it is still important to lightly sand them for a professional finish. This will also help your new coat of paint adhere to the wall more securely.

If your walls have noticeable marks and scars, consider using stain-blocking primer before painting. Available at most home centers, this helps protect drywall surfaces against water stains, marker stains and crayon marks while helping preserve its finish.

If your household includes children or animals, consider selecting washable/scuff-resistant paint for walls with bold patterns to protect it from stains and marks and keep its look intact for many years to come. This will keep your walls looking their best!