Preparation
Interior Painting Prep Checklist: What to Do Before the Painters Arrive
Professional painters handle the heavy lifting — protection, prep, paint, and cleanup. But a short checklist on your end helps the crew start fast and protects your belongings.
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Clear the essentials
Remove small valuables, breakables, and wall decor. Take down curtains or blinds if they're in the way. Clear closet floors if closets are being painted. Your painters move and cover the big furniture.
Make rooms accessible
Ensure clear paths to the rooms being painted and access to water and outlets. If pets are anxious around strangers or fumes, arrange for them to be elsewhere during work hours.
Decide on colors beforehand
Finalize colors before painting day — last-minute changes can delay the job or require extra paint runs. Large test swatches viewed in your lighting beat tiny chips every time.
Communicate special concerns
Flag anything unusual: fresh plaster that needs more dry time, areas with water stains (the leak must be fixed first), or surfaces with old lead paint in pre-1978 homes. The more your painter knows upfront, the smoother the job.
Need help with your painting project? Chicago painting services — call (312) 517-2232 for a free estimate anywhere in the Chicago area.
FAQs
No — patching nail holes and minor damage is standard prep your painter handles.
Light dusting helps; your painter will clean as needed during prep. Kitchens may need degreasing, which pros handle.
Center of the room, covered with drop cloths and plastic. Large pieces stay; small items should be cleared by you.
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