How to Prep Your Walls Before Painting

A flawless paint job doesn’t just come from great paint — it starts with good preparation.
Proper wall prep ensures better adhesion, smoother finishes, and longer-lasting colour.
Whether you’re repainting an old room or starting fresh, here’s how to get your walls paint-ready like a pro.

1. Clear & Protect the Area

Start by moving furniture away from the walls and covering the floor.

• Use drop sheets or old blankets to protect surfaces.
• Remove wall décor, light switch covers, and outlet plates.

💡 Tip: Use painter’s tape to mask trims, window frames, and skirting boards for clean edges later.

2. Clean the Walls Thoroughly

Paint sticks best to clean, grease-free surfaces.

• Wipe down walls with warm soapy water or a mild detergent.
• For kitchen walls, use a degreaser to remove oil buildup.
• Rinse with clean water and let them dry completely.

🧽 Skipping this step can lead to peeling or uneven coverage later!

3. Repair Imperfections

Check for cracks, holes, or flaky paint.

• Fill small holes with filler or spackling compound, then sand smooth once dry.
• Scrape off any loose or bubbling paint.
• For major damage, use a patching compound and allow it to fully cure.

💡 Tip: Shine a torch across the wall — it’ll help you spot uneven areas before painting.

4. Sand the Surface

Sanding helps your new paint adhere evenly.

• Lightly sand glossy or uneven areas with fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit).
• Wipe down the dust with a damp cloth afterward.

🎯 This step ensures a smooth, professional finish — especially if you’re changing from a darker to lighter colour.

5. Prime Before Painting

Priming creates a consistent base and improves paint adhesion, especially on repaired or new surfaces.

• Use a high-quality primer like Benjamin Moore® Fresh Start® Primer for best results.
• For previously painted walls, spot-prime repaired areas before applying your main coat.

🌿 Fresh Start Primer is low odour, quick-drying, and provides excellent coverage — perfect for clean, long-lasting results.

6. Check Lighting and Conditions

Avoid painting in extreme temperatures or humidity.
Ensure the room has good ventilation and steady airflow.
Natural daylight helps you see the wall clearly and avoid missed spots.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to properly prep your walls makes all the difference — helping your paint look smoother, last longer, and stay vibrant.

At My Paint & Co, we stock everything you need for your next paint project — from primers, brushes, and tools to Benjamin Moore’s premium paint range.

✨ Visit us in-store at Mitchell, ACT or shop online today.