Prepping
How to Prep Interiors
Tools
Here's everything you'll need to get it right the first time.
| 2" brush | Hand vacuum with brush attachment |
| Sand sponge | Sand paper |
| Alcohol or Alkyd-based primer | Painter's tape |
| Goggles, protective gloves, respirator |
Prepping Molding
With contoured or intricate trim or molding, use a sanding sponge rather than sand paper. The sponge gets places the paper can't reach.
Trick of the Trade
Use a hand vacuum with a brush attachment to clean dust and debris off woodwork and doorframes.
Repairing Woodwork
With eggshell and semi-gloss finishes, every imperfection shows through. So proper prep is critical when painting woodwork. Fill in dents and rebuild chipped corners with wood filler. (Most woodwork is typically painted semi- or gloss.)
Use spackle on scratches and smaller cracks. Keep sanding and filling till you get it right—the end results are worth it. Finally sand the dry surface with 180 grit paper and wipe off all the dust.
Priming Bare Woodwork
Use a latex or oil-based primer formulated for stain blocking and sealing the surface.
Priming Glossy Painted Surfaces
There are three ways to prime a glossy surface:
1. Use a latex or oil-based primer formulated for glossy surface adhesion.
2. Use a liquid deglosser such as Prepaint, following all label instructions.
3. Go over the surface with 200 grit sandpaper. The scuffing will help the new paint adhere. Then wash the surface with TSP, rinse with water, and let dry.
Other Prepping Links:
More information about proper surface painting, prepping, and clean up.
Interior primers
Valspar primers will keep your interiors looking freshly painted.
Exterior primers
Valspar primers are manufactured to the highest standards of durablity.
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