How to Prepare Walls for a Professional Paint Job
Before a single drop of paint hits your wall, preparation is what determines how good your results will be. The best finish starts long before the paint brush - with clean, smooth, and properly primed walls.
At AllPro Painters, we paint homes across Las Vegas, St. George, and Cedar City. A few smart steps before painting help the results look professional and last longer. Here is how to get your walls ready.
Why Wall Preparation Matters
Even high quality paint will not look right on a dirty or damaged surface. Dust, oils, and small imperfections keep paint from bonding. Cleaning, patching, and priming your walls leads to a smooth and durable finish.
We treat preparation as the foundation of every job. It is how we deliver clean lines, even color, and lasting results in the desert heat.
Step 1: Clean the Walls Thoroughly
Start with a mild soap and warm water solution. Wipe down all walls to remove dust, grease, and cobwebs. Homes in Las Vegas often collect fine dust on walls, while St. George and Cedar City homes may see light humidity that leaves residue.
Avoid harsh cleaners that can affect paint adhesion. Let walls dry fully before moving forward.
Tip: Run a clean cloth over the wall after it dries. If it still feels dusty, give it one more pass.
Step 2: Repair Any Damage
Inspect your walls under good lighting. Small cracks, nail holes, and dents are easy to miss but very noticeable after painting.
Use spackle for small holes and joint compound for larger areas. After it dries, lightly sand until the spot feels smooth.
We include this repair step in every project so your finish looks clean from top to bottom.
Step 3: Sand and Smooth the Surface
A quick sanding makes a big difference. Use 120 to 150 grit sandpaper to remove small bumps or uneven texture. This gives the paint a better surface to grip and keeps the final finish even.
Vacuum or wipe away all dust before moving on. A clean wall helps your new color go on smoothly and stay that way for years.
Step 4: Protect Fixtures and Floors
Use painter’s tape around trim, light switches, and outlets. Cover floors and furniture with drop cloths instead of plastic sheets. Drop cloths are safer and help prevent slipping.
Our team uses heavy duty canvas drop cloths to keep every inch of your home protected during the job.
Step 5: Prime the Walls (If Needed)
- New drywall
- Dark or glossy colors you want to cover
- Patched areas
Primer helps paint adhere and creates an even base. We use high adhesion primers designed for the Southwest’s dry conditions so your paint stays bright and strong.
Step 6: Schedule Your Professional Paint Job
Once your walls are prepped, it is time for a professional finish. Our painters bring skill, steady technique, and quality materials to every project - from color choice to the final coat.
Ready to refresh your space? We make the process easy, clean, and reliable.
Why Homeowners Choose AllPro Painters
- Licensed and insured in Nevada and Utah
- Over 20 years of local experience
- Clear pricing and dependable timelines
- Detailed prep and careful cleanup
Transform your home with confidence - we will handle the prep and the paint.
Call (702) 830-9633 or request your free quote today. We proudly serve Las Vegas NV, St. George UT, and Cedar City UT.
Related Services
Interior Painting Services | Exterior Painting | Request a Quote