Surface Preparation

  • Clear the room of all removable items including removable fixtures
  • Turn off the power and loosen switch plates and fittings so that you can clean, sand and paint underneath the outline of the fitting
  • It’s essential to wash the surfaces you’ll be painting. Bathrooms are especially prone to mildew. And kitchens are subject to greasy build ups that can affect the quality of your new paint job
  • Clean mildew from surfaces with a 3 part bleach to 1 part water solution
  • For grease build up, use sugar soap
  • Cover and mask all edges with masking tape where possible, especially where fittings can’t be removed
  • Remove door hardware
  • Pull out nails and picture hooks and fill holes with joint compound
  • Cover floor coverings and immovable fixtures like sinks, stoves and benches.
PAL® Handy Tip: When painting mildew-prone areas like bathrooms, use a mildew-resistant primer.

Paint Procedure

  • Start with the ceiling. "Cut in" around the edges of the ceiling, light fixtures and other ceiling fixtures. Use a 25-63mm brush. Be sure to avoid painting onto walls if you’re not planning on painting them fully. A small handheld shield can help you avoid overlapping onto walls
  • You’re then ready to start rolling
  • Follow the same procedure when painting the walls. Cut in first around fixtures and fittings, and then start rolling. But remember to always roll the first stroke upwards on vertical surfaces. This helps prevent paint drips
  • See Walls and Ceilings for more information on achieving professional finishes
  • See How to Paint with a Roller and How to Paint with a Brush for more tips on paint application methods.

Want more kitchen & bathroom tips?

Check the following pages for related information:
How to Paint with a Roller
How to Paint with a Brush
Selecting the Right Roller
Selecting the Right Brush
Wallpapering