How to Prep a Wall Before Painting
Fresh paint can change a room quickly, but most disappointing results come from skipping preparation. Dust, grease, loose filler, and small surface defects are far more visible once a new coat dries.
Begin by removing lightweight fittings and moving furniture away from the wall. Cover floors and anything that must stay in the room. Wash marks and dusty areas with a suitable mild cleaner, then allow the surface to dry fully.
Repair first, sand second
Fill nail holes and small dents, following the drying time on the filler. Sand the repair until it sits level with the surrounding wall, then remove sanding dust with a soft brush or clean cloth.
Use masking tape where a clean edge matters, but do not rely on tape to hide rough preparation. If the wall has repaired patches or an uneven previous finish, a primer may help create a more consistent surface before the final colour.
Taking an extra half hour at this stage usually saves much more time later. Painting goes faster when the room is protected, the wall is clean, and every obvious defect has already been dealt with.
