How to Prepare a Room Before a Professional Paint Job

Painting crews can work faster and more cleanly when a room is prepared in advance. None of the steps below take long, but they make a noticeable difference.

Clear and cover

Remove small items and wall décor, and move furniture away from the walls or to the center of the room. Anything that can't be moved should be covered.

Protect fixtures and floors

Light switch and outlet covers, door handles, and flooring near the walls benefit from simple protection to avoid accidental marks.

Point out any wall damage in advance

Cracks, nail holes, or uneven patches are easier to address before painting begins — mentioning them ahead of time lets the crew plan for proper surface prep.

• Remove small items, wall décor, and curtains where possible.
• Move or cover furniture away from the walls.
• Protect switches, outlets, and door handles.
• Point out cracks or damage you want addressed before painting starts.