1. Preparation & Surface Treatment 🧼
Cleaning walls: Remove dust, grease, grime using mild detergent and wipe-downs, crucial for proper paint adhesion
Patching & sanding: Fill holes/cracks with spackling or joint compound, then sand for a smooth surface
Sanding & degreasing: Use fine-grit paper or steel wool, especially in kitchens/bathrooms, to ensure clean, dull surfaces
Removing fixtures: Take down outlet/switch plates and lightly sand shiny surfaces, per pro tips
2. Protecting Adjacent Areas
Masking off trim and fixtures: Use painter’s tape to shield baseboards, windows, doors, and hardware
Covering floors & furniture: Apply drop cloths or surface protection film to prevent paint splatters .
3. Priming
Priming bare spots or stain-prone areas: Oil- or latex-based priming increases adhesion and blocks stains
Drying time matters: Most primers need at least 4 hours to settle before painting
4. Applying Paint
Cutting-in: Brush paint around edges—ceilings, trim, corners, for precision
Rolling or spraying: Use rollers (or sprayers for large areas/new builds) to cover walls and ceilings evenly .
Number of coats: Typically one to two full coats; dark-to-light color changes often require a second coat .
Sheen selection: Choose finish by room function, flat for ceilings, satin/eggshell for walls, semi-gloss/gloss for trim and high-use spaces
5. Painting Trim, Doors & Other Details
Scope varies by contract: Some jobs include walls only, others add trim, doors, closets, crown molding, window frames, baseboards, and cabinets
Attention to detail: Trim and doors often need a clean finish, sometimes with double coats
6. Cleanup & Final Touches
Removing tape and drop cloths: Carefully remove masking before paint dries fully to avoid peeling
Spot corrections: Address any drips, uneven coverage or over-spray
Tool cleaning: Wash brushes and rollers with soap (water-based paint) or mineral spirits (oil-based)
Final walkthrough: Client and painter inspect finished work, identifying any areas needing touch-up
7. Optional Add-ons & Extras
Wallpaper removal or textured surface prep .
Stain-blocking primer for tough marks
Low-VOC or specialized paints (e.g. mildew-resistant for moist rooms) .
Safety & regulatory care: Lead testing for older homes, proper ventilation .
Contract specifics: Clearly stated scope, painting products, schedule, surfaces included, and what’s excluded—helps manage expectations
Why Every Step Matters
Preparation prevents defects: Ensures the finish is smooth, consistent, and long-lasting .
Protecting non-paint areas saves costs: Avoids extra damage or stains on floors, fixtures, furniture
Primer ensures coverage & durability: Essential for adhesion and color fidelity .
Multiple coats and finishes optimize appearance & usability: Durability and washability differ by finish .
Cleanup finishes the job professionally: Final detail work leaves a polished, complete finish .
Interior painting is much more than just brushing on color, it’s a methodical, multi-step process. From careful prep and priming through painting, trim work, and cleanup, each phase is essential for transforming a space with longevity and precision.
Call Haddon Painting Pro for all your interior and exterior painting needs: (609) 332-3000.