A fresh coat of paint can completely transform your space — but if you want that professional, long-lasting finish, the real magic starts before the roller hits the wall. Proper wall prep ensures better adhesion, smoother results, and a paint job that holds up over time.

Whether you're tackling a small bedroom or an entire home in Pickering, Ajax, Durham Region, or beyond, here's how the pros at Altona Painting get walls ready for paint — and how you can too.

1. Clear the Room and Protect Your Floors

Start by removing furniture, artwork, and anything else that could get in the way. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch paint drips and keep your flooring safe. Painter’s tip: masking tape along baseboards adds another layer of protection.

2. Clean Walls Thoroughly

Paint needs a clean surface to stick. Wipe down walls using a mild detergent and warm water — especially near high-touch areas like light switches and door frames. Don’t forget to rinse with clean water afterward to remove any soap residue.

3. Patch and Repair Wall Damage

Look for dents, cracks, nail holes, or uneven spots. Use spackling compound or filler to fix them, and if needed, reinforce larger holes with mesh tape. Once dry, sand everything smooth to blend with the wall.

4. Lightly Sand the Walls

Even clean, unblemished walls benefit from a quick sanding. It roughs up glossy finishes just enough to help the new paint grip. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and a sanding pole for even coverage without gouges.

5. Scrape Away Peeling Paint

Loose or flaking paint needs to go. Gently scrape with a putty knife or paint scraper, then feather the edges with sandpaper. Spot prime any exposed areas to prevent future peeling and to even out absorbency.

6. Prime for Better Coverage

Primer isn’t just for problem walls — it gives you a cleaner, more even finish. Choose the right type for your surface (drywall, plaster, previously painted) and apply a consistent coat. Let it dry fully before moving on.

7. Tape Edges and Trim

Clean lines start with good prep. Use painter’s tape to mask off trim, baseboards, and ceilings. Press it down firmly to prevent bleed-through — and peel it off slowly while the paint is still slightly tacky for best results.

8. Fill Nail Holes and Caulk Gaps

Nail holes, trim gaps, or spaces between baseboards and walls? Fill them with spackling compound or paintable caulk, then smooth it out with your finger or a putty knife. These small details make a big visual difference when everything's painted.

9. Let Everything Dry

Whether it’s washing, patching, priming, or caulking — make sure each step is fully dry before moving on. Painting over damp surfaces can cause adhesion issues, bubbling, or uneven texture.

Final Thoughts: The Finish Starts with the Prep

Painting is about more than just colour — it's about craftsmanship. When your walls are prepped the right way, the paint goes on smoother, looks better, and lasts longer.

At Altona Painting, we bring that same level of prep and professionalism to every home we work on — whether it's a condo in Whitby or a full house in Durham Region. Need help getting your home paint-ready?

👉 Get a free quote today or send us your questions — we’re here to help!