One of the most important things that you will do before you paint your walls is get them ready. When you prepare your walls properly, you ensure that the paint will adhere to the walls, and your project will turn out as well as possible. It is important to repair and clean your walls before you get started so they will look amazing when you finish.

Clean the Walls

Cleaning your walls is one of the most important steps in your preparation for painting. You can clean most walls with warm water and a sponge. If you find grime or buildup on any walls, you can mix detergent or dish soap with warm water to clean the walls, and then use a clean damp cloth to remove any remaining cleanser. Make sure you allow enough time for the wall to dry completely before you paint. If you try to paint before the wall is dry, the paint could bubble or blister.

Check for Mildew

The problem with mildew is that it is a living organism, and if you paint over it, it will continue to grow. Check your walls for any mildew, and if you find it, you should clean it with a bleach and water solution. You can scrub the area containing the mildew, and then rinse it with clean water. Be sure to allow it to dry completely before you paint.

Sand the Wall Surface

If your walls are smooth and free of blemishes, you can skip this step. However, if there are any rough spots on the wall, you will want to sand it before you paint. You can use a sanding block or sandpaper to smooth the surface, and use a damp cloth to wipe away the dust from the sanding.

Apply a Coat of Primer

The last step before you paint is to apply a coat of primer. The primer will serve as a foundation, and paint will adhere to it well. The primer will also cover up any imperfections and create a smooth surface for your paint to stick to. No matter what your color choice is, applying a coat of primer is a good idea.

What If You Have Wallpaper?

People often wonder if they can paint over wallpaper. It normally isn’t a very good idea. Some wallpapers have a high sheen for easy cleaning, and the paint will have trouble adhering to the wallpaper. Paint cannot hide the seams in wallpaper either, so you will want to remove the wallpaper or hire someone who can.

Final Words

When you are preparing your walls for painting, you will want to clean them first. Make sure they have time to dry. Next, you should check to be sure that there isn’t any mildew lurking in a corner. You can use sandpaper to sand the walls and create a smooth surface. Finally, apply the primer, and your walls are ready to be painted.