Before painting a wall, it’s important to prepare the surface properly. Neglecting this important step could result in an imperfect paint job that reveals everything from cracks to scratches. With the right tools and supplies, you can easily ready the drywall for fresh color. Here’s what you need to know to ready your wall for a new look. 

How to Prepare Your Drywall for Paint

1. Perform Minor Repairs

After removing all items from the walls, assess the amount of minor damage created by nails, tacks, or pins. You can easily fill those with spackling paste and then smooth the spot down with a paint scraping tool. Let it set before finishing with sandpaper to create a level finish. If there are more substantial holes present, use a drywall patch repair kit to cover the opening, apply drywall material over it, and smooth it out. After the wall sets, rub drywall sandpaper over it to create a seamless transition from the old drywall to the existing one.

2. Fix Major Damage

Assess the condition of the walls. If water damage is present, you will need to identify the cause and repair the problem before continuing with the project. Otherwise, your home may be at risk for serious electrical or structural issues that could worsen with time. Then you’ll need to remove the affected drywall with a saw. Cut fresh drywall to size, screw it to the wall, and apply drywall tape and mud to secure it and create a smooth finish.

3. Minimize Stains

Painting over stains won’t make them less visible. They’ll simply look darker, and therefore more obvious, than the rest of the wall. Avoid this by applying a stain-blocking primer to any affected areas. Once primed, the paint will cover the stains and have a stronger adhesive. 

4. Clean Thoroughly

Once you’ve handled all of the structural work, it’s time to clean the surface to ensure that the color adheres well. If the walls are greasy, spray a combination of one part hot water and one part white vinegar onto affected spots, then wipe it down. Otherwise, run a broom over the walls, then wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. Make sure to remove all traces of dirt, dust, and cobwebs before painting.
 

Are you ready to revamp a room with some fresh paint? Before you start, head to Nunda Lumber & Hardware in Nunda, NY, to gather everything that you need to prepare the walls. The family-owned business has served the community since 1932, and they offer an extensive range of tools and materials that you need to complete your home improvement projects. Visit them online to learn more about their products, or call (585) 468-2521 to find out about their local delivery service.