Painting: why preparation matters more than the paint

When paintwork fails early, the paint is often blamed. More often, the surface underneath was not ready for it. Preparation is most of the work in a good paint job; it is also the part you cannot see once the job is done.

Common problems and their usual causes

• Peeling or flaking — paint over dust, loose old paint or a damp surface.
• Bubbling — moisture behind the paint, or paint applied in direct heat.
• Patchy colour — no primer on new plaster or repairs, so areas absorb paint differently.
• Cracks showing through — cracks filled with the wrong material, or not filled at all.
• Mould on walls — damp from leaks, poor ventilation or ground moisture.

What good preparation involves

1. Inspect — find damp, cracks, loose plaster and old coatings.
2. Fix the cause of any damp first, such as leaking gutters or plumbing.
3. Clean — remove dust, grease and mould.
4. Scrape and sand loose or glossy paint.
5. Repair cracks and holes with a filler suited to the surface.
6. Prime new plaster, repairs and bare surfaces.
7. Protect floors, fittings and furniture before painting.

Choosing paint

• Interior walls — a paint suited to the room: washable finishes help in kitchens, children's rooms and corridors.
• Exterior walls — paint made for outdoor exposure to sun and rain.
• Wood and metal — the right primer and topcoat for each material.
• Sheen — matt hides surface marks; satin and gloss are easier to wipe but show imperfections.

Ask for colour samples on the actual wall: colours look different in different light.

What to ask for in a quotation

• The surfaces included, with areas or rooms listed
• The preparation steps for each surface
• The paint products and number of coats
• Who moves furniture and cleans up
• The programme, especially for occupied homes and offices

A well-prepared surface with a sound, suitable paint will look better for longer than an expensive paint on a poor surface.