If you feel like the inside of your home is looking a little dull, you may want to get an interior painting job done. However, interior painting will only be effective if you prepare your wall beforehand. To achieve the best results for your interior house painting, just follow our tips below.
Wall Preparation Before Painting
1. Clean Your Walls
The first thing you need to do is get rid of any dirt or residue on the wall. Just for general cleaning, you can wipe down the walls and use a vacuum cleaner. If there is any residue, you can remove it using a solution of detergent and water. If there is any mould, an anti-mould solution can be used. If you have wallpapers, you will have to remove them first. Then you need to clean up any residue left behind by it. Do not paint over wallpapers because it would cause uneven layers and paint that would easily come off.
2. Remove Hardware
After cleaning your walls, you need to remove everything that may be an obstacle to painting. It is important to remove everything on the walls and some items on the floor: paintings, electrical sockets, nails, light fixtures, and more.
These can make it difficult to paint the walls, or you can get paint on them.
3. Remove Old Paint
If there is cracking or flaking paint from old paint jobs, make sure to remove them. If you do not, your new paint may not stick well in even layers. To remove this old paint, you can use a paint scraper to take it off and sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Since walls are a big area, you can try using a sanding block to make it easier or an electric sander. Sanding walls before painting is a good idea because it will help the paint stick better. Make sure to wear goggles and a dust mask so that you don’t get any dust in your eyes or lungs.
4. Repair Your Wall
Make sure to inspect your walls for any cracks or damaged plaster. Before painting the walls, you must ensure that everything is repaired.
Otherwise, you may end up with paint that will come off easily, or the wall damage will show through.
5. Layout Protection
Cover the floors and walls you want untouched with a drop sheet. Make sure to tape these sheets down so that they stay in place.
Aside from this, you will need to apply painter’s tape around doors, window frames, and more. You will also need to remove all the furniture in the room. If there is some furniture that, for some reason, cannot be removed, cover it up with drop sheets and move it toward the center of the room if it can be moved.
6. Prime Your Walls
After cleaning your walls, you need to remove everything that may be an obstacle to painting. It is important to remove everything on the walls and some items on the floor: paintings, electrical sockets, nails, light fixtures, and more.
These can make it difficult to paint the walls, or you can get paint on them.
7. Use a Stain-blocking Primer
Some stains, such as those by permanent markers, cannot be removed no matter what you do. Adding a stain-blocking primer will ensure that the stain does not show through the paint.
Although you may be excited to get your walls painted, make sure the right steps are taken in preparation. While most professionals will already know how to do so, it is best that you are aware of what steps are needed to be done, too.
This will help you ensure that you and your walls are fully prepared.
Safety Precautions During Interior Painting Painting your home's interior can be an exciting task, but it also comes wi
Painting your home’s interior can be an exciting task, but it also comes with potential hazards. It’s important to follow certain safety precautions, especially regarding ventilation, ladder use, and handling paint and other chemicals. Here’s what you need to be aware of during the paint preparation process:
1. Proper Ventilation
Ventilation is vital when painting indoors to allow toxic fumes released from the paint to disperse, reducing potential health risks.
- Ensure all windows and doors are open to allow air to circulate freely.
- Use fans if necessary to encourage air movement.
- When possible, paint during periods of good weather when you can open your home to the outside.
- Consider wearing a mask or respirator if you’re sensitive to paint fumes.
2. Ladder Safety
Ladders are often required for painting higher areas. Here are some safety tips:
- Always ensure the ladder is on a stable, flat surface before climbing.
- Do not overreach when painting; it’s safer to come down and move the ladder.
- Follow the “three points of contact” rule: at least two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot, should be on the ladder at all times.
- Do not exceed the maximum load-carrying capacity of the ladder.
3. Handling of Paint and Chemicals
Paints and related chemicals can be harmful if not handled correctly.
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings on paint and cleaning products.
- Wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and even a mask if necessary.
- Do not eat or drink in the vicinity to avoid accidental ingestion.
Post-painting Activities
After painting, there are various tasks to undertake, such as disposing of leftover paint, maintaining the space, and cleaning the equipment. Here are some tips:
1. Proper Disposal of Leftover Paint
- Never pour paint down a drain or onto the ground.
- If you have a small amount of paint left, leave the lid off to allow it to dry, then dispose of it in regular household trash (if permitted in your area).
- For larger quantities, consider donating the paint or hiring a professional waste disposal service.
2. Touch-ups and Maintenance
- Store a small amount of paint for touch-ups in a tightly sealed container.
- Keep a record of the paint brand, colour and finish for any future reorders.
- Regular cleaning and dusting can help maintain the look and durability of your walls.
3. Cleaning Brushes and Rollers
- If using water-based paint, rinse your brushes and rollers under running water.
- For oil-based paint, use mineral spirits or paint thinner to clean your tools, ensuring proper disposal of any leftover solvent.
- Dry your brushes and rollers correctly to extend their life, preferably by hanging upside-down.
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Contact us today for the best interior paint job on your home! Call 416.494.9095 or email Brian@HomePaintersToronto.com. Also, don’t forget to check out and follow us on our social media channels below!
