You have decided to give your home a fresh and modern look by painting it a bold color. In spite of the fact that painting is probably the easiest and most cost-effective way to instantly update your space, it isn't as simple as just slapping some paint on the walls. Preparation is the key to a quality paint job that will last for years. It is imperative to make sure that your walls have been properly repaired before applying paint. 

How to repair drywall before painting

Take a close look at your walls after you remove any artwork or decorative items that are hanging up. Wear and tear usually causes a few cosmetic flaws. There are usually small dents, bubbles, scrapes, nail pops, small holes from hanging pictures, etc. There might also be more extensive damage, such as larger holes, dents from doorknobs, or caulking cracks in the corners.

You might not notice these imperfections at first, but if you paint over them without fixing them first, you will definitely see them. To ensure that you get all of them, hold a utility light against the wall and slowly move it along to help highlight any hard-to-see spots. To identify a spot that needs repair work, circle it with a pencil (not a pen or marker!) 

Filling all the holes, dents, and gauges in drywall is the first step in repairing it. If it's a small one, it should be fairly quick and easy. Mix your own drywall compound or purchase pre-mixed compound and smooth it out after covering the necessary areas. To ensure even coverage, apply two coats. Sandpaper should be used to smooth the area after the compound has dried. 

The process is a bit more complicated for larger holes. Apply drywall compound to a hole less than 6 inches in diameter, followed by an adhesive drywall patch. Apply a second coat after the compound has dried. After it dries, you can sand it gently to get a smooth finish. 

After sanding, vacuum up any dust and wipe the walls with a damp cloth to ensure that all the dust has been removed. You're ready to apply your primer coat after the walls have dried!

‍

HOW TO PREP DRYWALL BEFORE PAINTING

To make sure you get rid of any last dust particles that might mess up your paint finish, wipe the walls once more with a dry microfiber cloth. Before you apply your primer coat, make sure you do this step. As soon as the primer has been applied, you can paint over it with regular paint. Allow it to completely dry after painting an even coat. 

Check the walls for any rough spots after the primer is dry by running your hands along them. Once the walls are smooth, you can start painting!