Surface Preparation

The Foundation of Coating Success

Surface preparation is the most critical factor in coating system performance, accounting for approximately 80% of coating success. Our experienced teams understand that even the highest quality paints and coatings will fail prematurely on an improperly prepared surface.

Our Preparation Services Include:

• Surface Cleaning - Removal of dirt, oils, and contaminants - Scraping and Sanding - Elimination of loose and failing materials - Crack and Hole Repair - Proper patching of surface defects - Substrate Restoration - Addressing underlying material issues - Moisture Mitigation - Identifying and resolving water intrusion - SSPC Standard Compliance - Following industry best practices

From residential walls to industrial substrates, proper preparation creates the foundation for coating success, extending service life and ensuring optimal appearance and performance for every application.

Embarking on a painting project can be an exciting way to refresh a space, express creativity, or add value to your home. However, the key to a successful outcome lies in thorough preparation. Skipping this phase can lead to uneven finishes, wasted time, and frustration. Whether you’re painting a single room or an entire house, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare effectively.

1. Define Your Scope of Work

Before picking up a paintbrush, take a moment to clarify your goals. What mood or style are you aiming for? Are you painting walls, furniture, or an exterior surface? Consider factors like color schemes, finishes (matte, satin, gloss), and how the space will be used. For inspiration, browse design websites, magazines, or even social media platforms to gather ideas. Once you’ve settled on a direction, test paint samples on a small area to ensure the color works in your lighting. This allows you to start formulating a plan. We like to take photos of the area and mark up the photos to clearly identify what is changing. Photo mark up allows for where and when and in what order.

2. Gather Your Supplies and Sundriews

Having the right tools on hand streamlines the process and prevents mid-project interruptions. Here’s a basic checklist:

• Paint: Calculate the square footage of your surface to determine how much you’ll need (most cans cover about 250 to 350 square feet per gallon).
• Primer: Essential for covering dark colors, stains, or bare surfaces. Primer should be installed about 180-260 square feet per gallon based on the substrate and texture.
• Brushes and Rollers: Use brushes for edges and detail work, rollers for large areas. We exclusively use Wooster Brush.
• Painter’s Tape: For clean lines around trim, windows, and doors.
• Drop Cloths: To protect floors and furniture.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing surfaces.
• Cleaning Supplies: Rags, soap, and water for prep work.
• Ladderor Step Stool: For hard-to-reach spots.
• Paint Tray and Liners: For easy pouring and cleanup.

Double-check your list before starting to avoid last-minute store runs.

3. Clear and Protect the Space

Preparation begins with clearing the area. Move furniture to the center of the room or out entirely if possible. Remove wall hangings, curtains, and switch plates. Cover floors and remaining items with drop cloths or plastic sheeting, securing edges with tape to prevent slips or paint seepage. If you’re painting outdoors, account for plants, walkways, and weather conditions—wind can carry paint mist where you don’t want it.

4. Clean and Repair Surfaces

Paint adheres best to clean, smooth surfaces. Start by wiping down walls with a damp cloth or mild detergent to remove dust, grease, or grime. For exterior projects, a power washer might be necessary to tackle dirt and mildew. Next, inspect for imperfections. Fill cracks or holes with spackle or caulk, and sand rough spots until even. This step is crucial—skipping it can leave flaws visible under fresh paint.

5. Apply Primer (If Needed)

Priming isn’t always required, but it’s a game-changer in certain scenarios. Use it when painting over dark colors, stains, or porous surfaces like drywall or wood. Primer creates a uniform base, enhances color vibrancy, and improves paint adhesion. Apply it with a roller for large areas and a brush for edges, then let it dry completely—check the can for drying times, typically 2-4 hours.

6. Tape Off Edges

For crisp, professional-looking results, apply painter’s tape along trim, windows, and any areas you don’t want painted. Press the tape firmly to prevent bleed-through, but don’t leave it on too long after painting—removing it while the paint is still slightly wet avoids peeling.

7. Plan Your Approach

Painting is messy work, so strategize to minimize chaos. Start with ceilings (if included), then move to walls, and finish with trim or details. Work from top to bottom to catch drips as you go. If using multiple colors, tackle one at a time, allowing each to dry before taping off for the next. For large projects, break the work into manageable sections over multiple days.

8. Check Conditions

Temperature and humidity affect paint drying and finish quality. Aim for a day between 50-85°F (10-29°C) with low humidity. Too cold, and the paint may not cure properly; too hot or humid, and it could dry unevenly. Indoors, ensure good ventilation by opening windows or using fans to disperse fumes.

9. Do a Final Check

Before dipping your brush, review your prep work. Are surfaces clean and smooth? Is everything taped and covered? Do you have enough paint and tools within reach? A quick run-through now saves headaches later.

10. Get Started

With prep complete, you’re ready to paint. Stir your paint thoroughly, pour it into a tray, and begin with a steady hand. Take your time—rushing leads to mistakes. Apply thin, even coats, letting each dry before adding another (usually 2-3 coats for full coverage). Step back occasionally to check for missed spots or drips. Moorhouse knows A well-executed painting project starts long before the first stroke. By investing time in preparation—planning, gathering supplies, and prepping surfaces—you set yourself up for a smooth process and a stunning result. So roll up your sleeves, turn on some music, and transform your space with confidence. Happy painting!