Getting your house professionally painted is a big step toward maintaining your property’s appearance and condition. Whether you’re painting to refresh the look of your space, protect it from weather damage, or prep it for sale, one thing is certain—preparation is key. Professional painters can only work efficiently and deliver the best results if the home is properly prepared. Ignoring this step can lead to delays, extra costs, or a finish that doesn’t quite meet your expectations.
Taking the time to prepare also shows respect for the painters’ work and helps ensure nothing is missed or damaged in the process. Many homeowners don’t realize how many details should be addressed before the first brushstroke begins. This checklist is designed to guide you through everything from clearing furniture to addressing outdoor maintenance. With some careful planning and a bit of elbow grease ahead of time, you’ll be setting the stage for a smooth and successful painting project.
Here’s a step-by-step checklist to help you get your home completely ready for house painters.
- Clear the Walls and Remove Wall Décor
Before the painters arrive, remove anything hanging on your walls. This includes artwork, clocks, shelves, mirrors, and wall-mounted TVs. Even if you think a fixture is out of the way, it’s safer to remove it entirely. Leaving items in place increases the risk of paint splatters or accidental damage. Take extra care with nails, screws, and wall anchors. Remove them if possible and store them safely. This also gives you a chance to inspect the walls and make a note of any damage that should be repaired before painting begins.
- Move or Cover Furniture and Valuables
Furniture should be moved away from the walls to provide painters with easy access. In most cases, a minimum of three feet of clearance is ideal. If your space is limited, moving furniture to the center of the room and covering it with plastic sheeting or drop cloths can also work. Fragile items, electronics, and valuables should be removed from the area entirely. Even with the most careful painters, accidents can happen. Reducing clutter ensures better efficiency and helps maintain a clean, safe workspace.
- Protect Flooring and Carpets
Painters usually bring their drop cloths, but it’s a good idea to take additional steps to protect your floors, especially if they’re light-colored or high-end materials like hardwood. Vacuum the floors beforehand to eliminate dust and debris that could stick to paint or interfere with drop cloths lying flat. For extra peace of mind, place your own plastic sheeting or rosin paper beneath vulnerable areas, especially in high-traffic zones like entryways and hallways.
- Trim Plants and Clear the Exterior
If exterior painting is scheduled, your landscaping needs attention, too. Trim back bushes, vines, and tree branches so that painters can safely access walls, siding, and trim. This not only protects your greenery but also gives painters enough room to work efficiently. Remove outdoor furniture, garden tools, hoses, grills, and potted plants. Be sure to turn off any sprinkler systems and notify your lawn care service to avoid unnecessary interruptions during the painting period.
- Address Wall Damage and Clean Surfaces
Although most painting services include basic surface prep, taking the time to clean and inspect your walls can improve the outcome. Wipe down walls with a damp cloth to remove dust, grease, or stains, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Look for cracks, nail holes, or loose drywall tape. If you’re handy, patching these in advance can save time and ensure a smoother finish. Just be sure the surfaces are dry before the painters arrive.
- Make Special Requests and Discuss Job Details
Good communication with your painting contractor is crucial. Let them know about any specific needs or concerns, such as which areas to avoid, pets in the home, or time constraints. If there are certain colors you want used in specific rooms, label those areas clearly. Be upfront about your expectations regarding timelines, cleanup, and final touch-ups. A short walkthrough with the crew leader before work begins can help set the tone for a successful project.
Preparing your home for professional painters may require some time and planning, but it’s worth the effort. By clearing wall décor, securing furniture, protecting your floors, prepping the exterior, addressing wall issues, and discussing key job details with your contractor, you set the foundation for a hassle-free experience and better painting results. If you’re ready to bring fresh life to your home with a paint job you’ll be proud of, contact the experts at Home Sale Painters today for professional service done right from start to finish.