Prep is the most important step in your paint project journey, but it can take many forms. It all comes down to the condition of the surface you need to paint as to what level of prep is involved. We’ve broken down each step of the prep process so that you can start your next paint project with confidence.
Step 1: Inspect
Give your wall a thorough inspection. Locate any damage (such as peeling or flaking paint) and make note of the stained or dirty areas on the wall.
Step 2: Repair
For small paint chips or holes, use Selleys Spakfilla Rapid to repair the wall. For larger damage, like a big hole or crack, a more detailed repair will be needed. For holes up to 8cm wide, use Selleys Spakfilla Wall Repair Kit.
If the damage is too extensive, seeking a professional fix may be necessary.
Step 3: Sand
Once the Spakfilla is dry from your repairs, use 120 grit sandpaper to sand the wall in these repaired areas. Wipe away excess dust.
Step 4: Clean
Return to the stained or dirty areas you made not of during your wall inspection and clean them thoroughly.
When it comes to cleaning a wall, there are 3 products we recommend:
1. Selleys Sugar Soap
Best used for a full-scale wall clean, Selleys Sugar Soap is a fantastic way to clean walls before you paint. It is a concentrate, so it will need to be diluted in a bucket before use before using it to clean your walls.
2. Tricleanium
Much like Selleys Sugar Soap, Tricleanium is best used for full-scale walls. It is also a concentrate, so you will need to dilute it before use. However, Tricleanium has the added step of washing down the wall after use to remove the residue.
3. Selleys Sugar Soap Wipes
If you’ve only got small sections of the wall to clean, Selleys Sugar Soap Wipes are your best option. They’re easy to use and require no prep themselves making them ideal for a quick clean.
Step 5: Prime
The priming process will be different for each individual project. In the case of a wall repair, where you are fixing damage and repainting with the same colour, you will only need to spot prime the repaired areas before painting.
However, if you’re repairing extensive damage (such as water damage) or changing the colour of your wall dramatically, you will need to apply 1x coat of primer to the wall before you paint.
The product you choose will also need consideration. For most walls with existing water-based paint and minimal damage we recommend Dulux 1Step Prep. If your wall is stained however, Dulux Precision High Opacity Stain Blocker will give you the best foundation to apply your topcoat.
When in doubt, talk to the experts at your local Inspirations Paint store about what primer is best for your project.
Step 6: Tape
Mask around your wall with masking tape to prevent your topcoat from bleeding or dripping onto unwanted surfaces.
Step 7: Paint
Once the primer is dry, apply 2x coats of your chosen topcoat to the wall. Allow the first coat to dry completely before moving on to the second coat.
If you want to keep your walls looking great for longer, then never skip the prep. It may take more time, but there’s no substitute for great wall preparation before you paint.
Head to your local Inspirations Paint store to get everything you need and nothing you don’t for your next paint project.
And if you’re looking for some more painting tips and tricks, check out our guide to repairing a water damaged door or learn how to fix a bad paint job.