Interior painting: preparation, materials and finishes
Why wall preparation matters more than the paint.
In this article
Good paint on a badly prepared wall gives a bad result. Ordinary paint on a well-prepared wall looks good for years. That is why most of a painter’s work can’t be seen: it happens before the first coat.
1. Check the wall
Before painting you need to know what is underneath: cracks, chips, damp stains, flaking paint or old textured finish. Each one has its own treatment.
- Fine cracks: opened slightly and filled.
- Damp stains: first find and fix the cause, then seal.
- Flaking paint: scraped back to a firm base.
2. Protect the home
Floors, furniture, sockets, frames and windows are covered or taped. It is what makes the difference between finishing and leaving the home ready to live in.
3. Fill, sand and prime
After repairs, the wall is sanded so the patches don’t show. On new, very absorbent or stained surfaces, a primer evens out the base and stops the paint looking patchy.
Tip
Look at the wall with side light, for example a torch held flat against it. You will see the flaws that would otherwise show up in the afternoon sun.
4. Choose the paint
- Matt emulsion: hides imperfections; ideal for ceilings and living rooms.
- Satin or washable: tougher; better for hallways, kitchens and children’s rooms.
- Anti-mould or for damp areas: bathrooms, kitchens and homes near the sea.
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5. Apply two coats
You almost always need two coats for an even colour, more if you go from a dark shade to a light one. The drying time between coats has to be respected.
6. How long it takes
An average empty flat is usually painted in a few days. With furniture, big repairs or high ceilings, longer. Humidity in the air also slows drying.
What makes a good result
- Wall checked and repaired
- Home protected before starting
- Filler sanded and primer where needed
- The right paint for each room
- Two coats with proper drying time
Founder of OSTEZA. I assemble kitchens and furniture, organise moves and coordinate the professionals on each job on the Costa Blanca. I write about what I see in homes every week.