The prep work your finished wall will thank you for.
The painting part is only one part of the project. Use this order to avoid covering up problems that are still there.
Inspect before you disturb the finish.
Look for peeling paint, damp patches, cracks, loose material, and damage around windows. Deal with the cause, not only its appearance. Recurring movement or moisture deserves assessment before repainting.
If your home was built before 1978, old paint may contain lead. Before sanding or scraping, follow EPA guidance and consider a lead-safe certified professional. Do not create dust while guessing what the coating contains.
Clear, protect, and clean.
Move what you can out of the work area and protect the rest. Remove accessible wall hardware, label its pieces, and keep them together. Set up stable access so you are not reaching awkwardly over furniture.
Use a cleaner and cleaning method compatible with the surface and coating instructions. Remove greasy residue where present. Allow the surface to dry fully before the next steps.
Repair and prime as the system requires.
Use a repair material suited to the damage. Follow its drying and sanding instructions, remove preparation dust, and check the repair from an angle with good lighting. Address uneven edges now.
Select primer for exposed substrate, repaired areas, adhesion needs, or stains as directed by your paint system. Let each material reach its specified recoat stage. A dry-looking surface is not always ready for the next product.
Make your first section a quality check.
Stir and apply the coating according to its instructions. Try a small, representative section before moving through the room. Check the application, coverage, and texture once dry.
Leave time for the full coating schedule and cleanup. Your plan should include preparation and drying windows, not just the hours with a roller in your hand.
Editorial guide · September 2026. Follow the current label and product data for your exact coating and surface.