A successful paint job starts long before the first brushstroke. Proper preparation ensures smoother results, better adhesion, and a finish that lasts. At Randall’s, we’ve guided Ottawa homeowners through countless transformations—here are the top questions we hear about prepping your home for interior painting.
1. Why is preparation important before painting?
Q: Can I just start painting right away?
A: Not quite. Prepping protects surfaces, improves paint adherence, and prevents costly do-overs. Skipping it could mean paint that chips, bubbles, or peels too soon.
2. What furniture should I move or cover before painting?
Q: Do I have to empty the whole room?
A: Ideally, yes. Move furniture out of the room if possible. If not, push it to the center and cover it with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect against splatter and dust.
➤ Need supplies? Find quality drop cloths and prep tools in our collections.
3. How do I protect floors and fixtures from paint splatter?
Q: What’s the best way to keep my floors clean during painting?
A: Use canvas or plastic drop cloths to cover hardwood, tile, or carpet. Mask outlets, baseboards, and fixtures with painter’s tape to prevent accidental smudges.
➤ Shop our full selection of painter’s tape and accessories.
4. Do I need to clean the walls before painting?
Q: Isn’t painting over a dusty wall fine?
A: No—dust, grease, or residue can interfere with paint adhesion.
Do this instead:
✔ Wash with a mild soap solution
✔ Rinse with clean water
✔ Let dry thoroughly before painting
5. Should I sand the walls before painting?
Q: Is sanding really necessary?
A: Yes, especially if the surface is glossy or patched. Light sanding smooths imperfections and gives the new paint something to grip onto. For a super-smooth finish, don’t skip this step.
6. When should I use primer?
Q: Can I paint without priming first?
A: It depends.
Use primer when:
✔ Switching from dark to light colors
✔ Covering stains, watermarks, or patched areas
✔ Painting over bare drywall or wood
➤ Need help choosing the right primer? Contact us or book a consultation.
7. How can I prep walls with damage or holes?
Q: What if there are dents, cracks, or nail holes?
A: Fill them with spackling paste or wall filler. Once dry, sand the area flush and prime it. This ensures your final coat looks flawless.
8. Do I need to remove old paint?
Q: Can I paint over existing paint?
A: Usually yes, if the surface is clean and in good condition. But if the old paint is peeling, bubbling, or cracking, it must be scraped off before repainting.
9. What’s the best room temperature for painting?
Q: Does temperature matter before I start?
A: Yes. Paint adheres and cures best between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F). Avoid painting in rooms that are too cold, too hot, or very humid.
10. How do I know I’m ready to start painting?
Q: What’s a final checklist before opening the can?
A:
✔ Furniture covered or removed
✔ Surfaces cleaned and dry
✔ Walls repaired and sanded
✔ Primer applied where needed
✔ Tape in place and supplies ready
➤ Ready to go? Use our Painter Order Form for quick and easy product requests.
🧰 Bonus: Let Randall’s Help You Prep Like a Pro
We provide everything you need—from premium tools and top-tier paints to free advice and expert colour consultations.
✔ Drop cloths, rollers, brushes
✔ Cleaners, primers, fillers
✔ Colour and finish guidance
✔ Full-service painting support
➤ Browse our paint collections
➤ Book your consultation via our services page
➤ Still have questions? Contact us anytime