Prepping
How to Prep Interiors
Masking Interiors
Paint drops all over the floor are a hallmark of an unprofessional job. Take the time to mask your interiors thoroughly.
Standard Masking Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have these essential tools for the job.
| Plastic Drop cloths | Newspapers |
| Painter's tape | Masking tape |
| Plastic bags (large and small) |
Spread drop cloths and newspapers
Move out of the room what you can, using good lifting techniques, material handling equipment, and team lifting as appropriate. Cover the rest. Then use painters tape [the blue or green stuff—masking tape dries out quick and is hard to remove] to attach plastic drops to the floor and woodwork, and cover drops with newspapers. Paint soaks into newspapers. It doesn't dry on a plastic drop cloth—which means you're more likely to track paint around your house, or slip, if you don't spread newspapers.
Tape off woodwork and electric plates
Use painter's tape to protect door and window frames, and moldings. Tape off electric fixture and cable TV fixture plates. Use small plastic baggies to cover door knobs.
Other Prepping Links:
More information about proper surface painting, prepping, and clean up.
Interior primers
Valspar primers will keep your interiors looking freshly painted.
Interior paints
Valspar paint products are designed to provide beauty and durability.
Dining Room Makeover
Cheryl was motivated to return to their home damaged by Hurricane Katrina.