As tempting as it is to grab a brush or roller and start applying paint, WAIT. The time you spend preparing your surface will pay off with a longer lasting, better looking paint job, and often in less time.
Start by cleaning your walls. Use a sponge and tri-sodium phosphate (TSP). You’ll be surprised at how much dirt accumulates on surfaces over time. You generally don’t need to ‘scrub’, but give the area a good cleaning to rid it of dirt and grease. Your new paint will cover better if you do. Wait 24 hours after cleaning before painting, Also take the time to “mask” around doors, baseboards, and windows, plus any wall areas where different color of paint will meet. It will save you time with the paint brush and make for a cleaner looking job.
PRO TIP: If you have textured walls and are going to use a different colors on different sections, such as a lighter color for the ceiling than the walls, apply masking tape to the corners then use a box cutter or similar to ‘score’ a straight line into the masking where you want the colors to change. Excess paint will fold into the cut line and make for a much sharper appearing edge. By properly “preparing” the surface to be painted you’ll save time, avoid mistakes, and end up with a better looking paint job.
You’ll find all the materials you’ll need, plus more Big Hammer Hints from the pros in the Paints & Stains Department at Pierson’s.
