Interior Painting: How to Get a Professional Result
Painting is 70 percent preparation. Here is what separates a good result from an obvious one.
Almost every visible flaw in a paint job was created before the finish coat went on. Prep is unglamorous, unskippable, and the entire difference.
Preparation
- Wash walls — kitchens and baths especially, where grease and residue block adhesion
- Fill nail holes and dents; sand flush when dry
- Repair drywall damage properly rather than painting over it
- Caulk gaps at trim, baseboards, and where walls meet ceilings
- Sand glossy surfaces to dull the sheen so paint can grip
- Prime patches, stains, and any bare drywall — patched spots absorb differently and will flash through the finish
- Remove outlet covers rather than taping around them
Choosing sheen
| Sheen | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flat / matte | Ceilings, low-traffic walls | Hides imperfections, hardest to clean |
| Eggshell | Living rooms, bedrooms | Most common wall choice |
| Satin | Hallways, kids' rooms, kitchens | Durable and cleanable |
| Semi-gloss | Trim, doors, bathrooms | Highlights surface flaws — prep matters more |
| Gloss | Accent trim, cabinetry | Requires excellent preparation |
Tools worth the money
- A quality 2.5-inch angled sash brush — it does the cutting in, which is what people notice
- Microfiber or woven roller covers appropriate to the surface texture
- A sturdy roller frame and an extension pole
- Canvas drop cloths rather than plastic, which is slippery and traps paint
- Good painter's tape, removed while paint is still slightly soft
Technique
Cut in the edges of one wall, then roll that wall immediately so the cut-in and rolled paint blend while wet. Roll in overlapping sections, finishing each with light vertical strokes in one direction. Maintain a wet edge and do not go back over paint that has begun to set — that is what creates lap marks. Two coats, always, and respect the recoat time on the can.
How much paint
One gallon covers roughly 350 to 400 square feet per coat on smooth walls, less on texture. Buy enough for both coats in a single batch so the color matches, and keep the leftover labeled by room.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need primer?
Prime bare drywall, patches, stains, glossy surfaces, and dramatic color changes. Over an existing similar color in good condition, a quality paint-and-primer product is usually sufficient.
How long between coats?
Follow the can — typically two to four hours for latex. Recoating too early lifts the first coat and creates a visibly uneven finish.
What is the best paint finish for walls?
Eggshell for most living spaces, satin where cleaning matters. Semi-gloss on trim and doors.
