🎨 Paint Prep Secrets: What Most DIYers Forget to Do

Thinking of refreshing your home with a new coat of paint? Great idea! But before you dip that brush, there’s something every DIYer needs to know—preparation is everything.

At Home Friend, we’ve seen countless well-intended paint jobs go sideways simply because of poor prep work. To help you avoid the most common mistakes, here are some professional paint prep secrets that most DIYers often forget—but shouldn’t.

1. Skipping the Surface Cleaning
Paint doesn't stick to dust, grease, or grime. Before anything else, wash the walls thoroughly with a mild detergent or degreaser. This is especially important in kitchens, bathrooms, and near switches or vents where build-up is common.

🧽 Pro Tip: A clean surface helps paint bond better and prevents peeling later.

2. Forgetting to Fix Cracks and Holes
Many DIYers paint right over imperfections thinking paint will hide them. It won’t.

🔧 Use spackle or filler to fix nail holes, cracks, and dents. Then sand it down until the wall is smooth. It might take a little more time, but the flawless finish is worth it.

3. Not Sanding Glossy Surfaces
If you're painting over a glossy wall or trim, don’t skip sanding. A shiny surface resists paint, causing it to slide off or peel.

🪵 Use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface, creating a better grip for your new coat.

4. Skipping Primer
Primer isn’t just for professionals—it’s a game changer. It helps:
> Seal porous surfaces
> Hide dark colors
> Improve paint adhesion
> Enhance color accuracy

🎯 If you're changing from a dark to light color, or painting raw surfaces (like drywall or wood), never skip primer.

5. Ignoring Temperature and Humidity
Paint loves the right conditions. Too cold or too humid, and it won’t dry properly. You might end up with streaks, bubbles, or uneven coverage.

🌡️ Ideal range: 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 85°F) with low humidity.

6. Not Using Painter’s Tape Properly
Painter’s tape isn't just about straight edges. It protects trim, sockets, and adjacent walls from accidental strokes. But one mistake people often make?

🕐 Leaving it on too long. Remove it within an hour after the final coat, while the paint is still slightly wet, to avoid peeling.

7. Rushing the Dry Time Between Coats
One of the biggest mistakes is impatience. Each layer of paint needs time to dry.

⏳ Rushing the next coat can cause smudges, poor coverage, and an uneven finish. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended dry time between coats.

Final Thoughts: Prep Like a Pro (or Let Us Help!)
Painting can transform a room—but only if it's done right. If you want lasting, professional results without the stress, Home Friend is here to help.

Our painting experts know every trick in the book—from prep to polish. Whether it’s one room or your whole home, we make sure it’s done cleanly, quickly, and beautifully.

✅ Need painting done right the first time?
Contact Home Friend today for trusted, affordable, and professional home services.