A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Professional painting crews handle the hard work -- taping, masking, priming, and painting. But there are a few simple things you can do before they arrive that help the project run smoothly, stay on schedule, and produce the best possible results.

Think of it as clearing the stage so the crew can focus entirely on their craft.

Preparing for Interior Painting

  • Move small furniture, lamps, and decor away from walls. The crew can help with large pieces, but clearing the small items yourself saves time
  • Remove wall hangings, mirrors, curtain rods, and switch plate covers. Keep hardware in labeled bags so it is easy to reinstall
  • Clear shelves and countertops in the rooms being painted, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Ensure the crew has clear access to all rooms, closets, and areas being painted
  • If you have pets, plan to keep them in a separate area away from the work zone for their safety and the crew's

Preparing for Exterior Painting

  • Trim shrubs, hedges, and tree branches back at least 18 inches from the house so the crew can access all surfaces
  • Move outdoor furniture, grills, planters, and garden tools away from the house perimeter
  • Take note of any exterior damage you have noticed -- rotted trim, cracks, loose siding -- and point it out to the crew
  • Ensure gates are unlocked and the crew has access to all sides of the house
  • If you have a sprinkler system, turn it off for the duration of the project

Preparing for Cabinet Refinishing

  • Clear all items from inside the cabinets and drawers that will be refinished
  • Remove everything from countertops adjacent to the cabinets
  • Plan for limited kitchen access during the project -- set up a temporary coffee station and keep essential items accessible

What to Communicate With Your Crew

Good communication makes for a better project. Before work begins, share the following with your painting crew:

  • Your final color selections and any specific preferences about where colors change
  • Any areas of concern -- stains, cracks, damage, or spots that need extra attention
  • Where pets will be kept and any pet-related access restrictions
  • Best way to reach you during the project if questions come up
  • Parking and access instructions, including alarm codes or lockbox combinations if needed

What the Crew Handles

Professional crews take care of the heavy preparation: taping edges, covering floors with drop cloths, masking fixtures, moving large furniture as needed, and protecting landscaping. You do not need to do any of that yourself. Your role is simply to clear the small items and ensure access -- the crew handles everything else.

Book Your Project

Ready to get started? Contact Fridenmaker Painting to schedule your project. We will walk you through exactly what to expect and how to prepare so the process is smooth and stress-free from start to finish.