Professional surface preparation accounts for 60% of a paint job's longevity. While your painting contractor handles the technical prep work, there are important steps homeowners should take to ensure the best results and a smooth project.
60%
The Prep Work Rule
Professional painters spend approximately 60% of project time on preparation—cleaning, sanding, patching, caulking, priming, and masking. This foundation determines how long your paint job lasts.
Before Interior Painting
1-2 Weeks Before
- Clear the room: Remove all furniture or move it to the center and cover with plastic
- Take down wall decor: Remove pictures, mirrors, curtains, and curtain rods
- Remove outlet/switch covers: These small pieces are easily lost during painting
- Patch any holes: Fill nail holes if you're comfortable doing so (painters will sand)
- Clean walls: Wipe down dusty or dirty walls—paint adheres better to clean surfaces
Day Before
- Move valuables: Relocate breakables, electronics, and irreplaceable items
- Clear closets: If closets are being painted, remove contents
- Secure pets: Plan to keep pets in a separate area or away from the house
- Inform family: Let everyone know which rooms will be off-limits
Before Exterior Painting
- Clear landscaping access: Move potted plants, outdoor furniture, and BBQs 6+ feet from the house
- Trim vegetation: Cut back bushes and tree branches touching the house
- Turn off sprinklers: Notify your irrigation system to avoid wet surfaces
- Notify neighbors: Especially if scaffolding or spray painting may affect their property
- Check weather: Discuss contingency plans with your contractor for rain delays
- Secure pets: Keep dogs inside during pressure washing and painting
What Professional Painters Handle
Your painting crew will take care of:
- Pressure washing: Removes dirt, mildew, and loose paint from exteriors
- Scraping & sanding: Creates smooth surfaces for paint adhesion
- Caulking: Seals gaps around windows, doors, and trim
- Priming: Applies appropriate primers for different surfaces
- Masking & drop cloths: Protects floors, fixtures, and adjacent surfaces
- Minor wood repair: Fills small holes and cracks
Bay Area-Specific Considerations
- Fog timing: Morning fog in Daly City, San Bruno, and coastal areas means exterior painting typically starts mid-morning
- Lead paint: Homes built before 1978 may require lead testing and special handling
- HOA approvals: Confirm color approval before painters arrive (especially Foster City, HOA communities)
Communication Tips
- Point out concerns: Show painters any areas with prior problems
- Discuss access: Provide gate codes, keys, or garage access as needed
- Establish contact: Exchange phone numbers with the crew lead
- Ask about timeline: Get expected completion dates and any potential delays
- Bathroom access: Clarify whether crew can use an indoor bathroom
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