How to Prepare Your Home for a Professional Painting Project
Hiring a professional painter is one of the best investments you can make in your home. A fresh coat of paint not only refreshes your space but also adds value and charm. But before the brushes and rollers come out, there’s one step many homeowners forget: preparing the home properly.
Getting your space ready ensures the job runs smoothly, saves time, and guarantees the best results. If you’re about to start a project with a professional decorator in Salisbury, here’s a practical painting project checklist to follow.
1. Move or Cover Furniture
Large pieces of furniture, like sofas, wardrobes, or dining tables, can get in the way of the painting process.
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If possible: Move them out of the room completely.
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If not: Push them to the centre and cover with protective sheets or plastic wraps.
This keeps them safe from accidental paint splatters and gives your decorator more room to work.
2. Protect Floors and Fixtures
Paint drips and spills happen, even with the most experienced painter. Protect your investment by:
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Laying down drop cloths or plastic sheets across the floor.
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Covering light fixtures, switches, and electrical sockets with painter’s tape.
This saves you extra cleaning later and ensures a spotless finish.
3. Remove Wall Décor and Accessories
Take down picture frames, mirrors, shelves, or wall-mounted items before the project begins. Even small hooks and nails should be removed to give your decorator a smooth, uninterrupted surface.
If you want certain fixtures painted around, let your decorator know in advance.
4. Clean and Prep Walls
Professional painters always recommend starting with a clean surface. Dust, grease, or stains can prevent paint from adhering properly.
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Wipe down walls with a mild detergent solution.
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Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens.
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Fill in small holes or cracks with filler (or leave it for your decorator to do).
Clean, smooth walls help the paint last longer and look flawless.
5. Plan for Kids, Pets, and Daily Living
Painting can take a few days depending on the size of the project. Think ahead:
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Arrange alternative sleeping or living spaces if bedrooms or lounges are being painted.
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Keep pets safely away from the work area.
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Make sure your decorator has easy access to water and power outlets.
6. Communicate With Your Decorator
Before painting starts, walk through the space with your decorator. Discuss:
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Colour choices and finishes (matte, satin, gloss).
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Special areas needing extra prep or attention.
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The project timeline and daily working hours.
Clear communication ensures both you and your decorator are on the same page.
Final Thoughts
Painting may seem as simple as picking a colour and waiting for the transformation—but proper preparation makes all the difference. A little effort before your painter arrives saves time, prevents mistakes, and guarantees a flawless finish.
If you’re planning a home makeover in Salisbury, Oladecorator is here to help. From wall preparation to final brushstroke, we handle every detail with professionalism and care.
📞 Call 07404 765311
🌐 www.oladecorator.co.uk
✅ Rated ★★★★★ by Salisbury homeowners
