Preparation & repairs

A great paint finish starts long before the first coat of paint.

Preparation is one of the most important parts of any painting project. Taking the time to properly repair, prepare and protect your surfaces helps achieve a smoother finish and ensures your paint lasts for years to come.

Living room wall with gyprock repair Adelaide repair and furniture covered in plastic.

Why is preparation so important?

Preparation is the foundation of every quality paint job. Cleaning surfaces, repairing imperfections, sanding, filling and priming where required all help create a smooth, durable finish. Skipping these steps can affect both the appearance and lifespan of the paintwork.

Learn how preparation fits into the entire painting journey in our Planning Your Project guide.

What repairs can be completed before painting?

We can carry out a range of minor surface repairs before painting, including filling cracks and holes, repairing small areas of damaged plaster, replacing sections of timber where appropriate and preparing worn or damaged surfaces. If we identify repairs outside the scope of painting, we'll discuss these with you before work begins.

See examples of beautifully restored homes in our Portfolio.

Do all surfaces need to be sanded?

Not every surface requires extensive sanding, but proper surface preparation is essential. Depending on the condition of the existing paintwork, surfaces may need sanding, scraping, cleaning or priming to ensure the new coating adheres properly and provides a long-lasting finish.

Learn more about choosing the right coatings in our Paint & Finishes Advice guide.

Do I need to fix cracks before painting?

Yes. Painting over cracks without addressing the underlying issue usually means they'll reappear over time. We'll assess the condition of the surface and recommend the most appropriate repair method before applying any paint.

Older homes often require additional preparation. Read our Heritage & Character Homes Advice guide.

Will you protect my home while you work?

Absolutely. We treat every home with the same care and respect we'd expect in our own. Floors, furniture and surrounding surfaces are carefully protected with quality drop sheets and coverings, and we keep the work area as clean and tidy as possible throughout the project.

Learn more about how we work respectfully in occupied homes in Our Process.

Why do painting quotes vary so much?

Not every quote includes the same level of preparation. One painter may include sanding, patching, gap filling and priming, while another may only allow for painting. When comparing quotes, always compare like for like so you understand exactly what's included before making a decision.

Learn more about Our Process.

Still have questions?

Every home is different, and we're always happy to provide honest advice. If you have a question that isn't answered here, get in touch and we'll be happy to help. Looking for a painter who never cuts corners? Learn more about Meet Dan and the preparation standards behind every Altered Image project.

Let's Discuss Your Project