Painting preparation checklist

Paint hides little. A poorly prepared surface shows through, peels, or marks later. The checklist below follows the order most professionals use.

Check what is under the paint

If the home was built before 1978, test or assume lead is present. Do not dry-sand or burn off old paint. Use lead-safe methods or a certified professional, as EPA guidance describes.

Repair and clean

• Fill holes and cracks, then sand smooth.
• Scrub away grease, mould and dirt, and let surfaces dry fully.
• Fix the cause of any damp or staining before painting over it.

Protect and prime

Cover floors and furniture, remove or mask hardware, and use the primer the paint maker recommends for the surface.

Apply

Work from top to bottom, keep a wet edge and apply thin even coats. Check the label for recoat times and conditions.

Handle products safely

Read the label and safety data sheet, ventilate well, and dispose of rags and leftover paint as local rules require. Soaked rags can be a fire risk.

Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.

Quick answers

• What matters most in painting? Preparation: clean, dry, sound surfaces and the right primer for the surface.
• Do I need to test for lead? For homes built before 1978 in the United States, test or assume lead paint is present before sanding or scraping, and follow EPA guidance.
• How long should paint dry? Follow the can. Drying and recoat times depend on product, temperature and humidity.
• Is ventilation important? Yes. Good airflow reduces vapour build-up and helps drying. Follow the safety data sheet.

Questions people ask

What matters most in painting?

Preparation: clean, dry, sound surfaces and the right primer for the surface.

Do I need to test for lead?

For homes built before 1978 in the United States, test or assume lead paint is present before sanding or scraping, and follow EPA guidance.

How long should paint dry?

Follow the can. Drying and recoat times depend on product, temperature and humidity.

Is ventilation important?

Yes. Good airflow reduces vapour build-up and helps drying. Follow the safety data sheet.

Sources and further reading

• U.S. EPA
• OSHA
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Text Digital Oro

Digital Oro International advertises on The Company Chronicle. This guide was written by our editorial team from public sources and general professional practice; it does not describe a guarantee, quote or offer from Digital Oro International. Confirm current terms, prices and availability with the operator before you decide.