Getting your home repainted is always a good feeling. Fresh paint can instantly make a space look brighter, cleaner, and more updated.
Before the painters arrive, though, there are a few simple things you can do to make the process easier.
A little prep on your end helps everything run smoother. It saves time, protects your belongings, and lets the painters focus on doing their job well.
At iPaintHomes, we see it all the time—when a home is ready, the entire project feels easier from start to finish.
Here’s how to get your home ready without overcomplicating it.
Why a Little Prep Makes a Big Difference
A lot of people assume prep is 100% the painter’s responsibility. While painters handle sanding, priming, and repairs, there are still a few things homeowners can take care of beforehand.
When the space is clear, painters can get started right away instead of moving furniture or working around obstacles.
That means:
Faster progress
Fewer delays
Less chance of something getting bumped or damaged
It’s not a huge effort, but it makes a noticeable difference.
Start by Clearing the Space
The easiest place to start is simply getting things out of the way.
Move Furniture Away from Walls
Try to pull furniture a few feet away from the walls. If you can move it to another room, even better.
For larger pieces, don’t stress—painters can help shift them slightly if needed. Just do what you can.
Take Down Wall Decor
Go ahead and remove anything hanging on the walls, like:
Pictures
Mirrors
Shelves
Wall-mounted TVs (if possible)
This gives painters full access and keeps your items safe from dust or accidental contact.
Clear Small Items and Clutter
Tables, counters, and shelves should be cleared off.
Small items tend to collect dust during prep work, and they can easily get in the way. Packing them up ahead of time keeps things simple.
Protect What Matters
Painters will bring drop cloths and protective materials, but a little extra care on your end never hurts.
Move Fragile Items
If something can break, it’s best to move it out of the room.
Think:
Glass decor
Lamps
Electronics
Even with careful crews, it’s better not to take the risk.
Cover Larger Items
If something has to stay in the room, cover it with a sheet or plastic.
It only takes a minute and adds an extra layer of protection from dust or paint splatter.
Plan for Pets and Kids
Painting days can get busy. Doors may be open, and tools will be around.
Keep pets and young kids in a separate area to avoid accidents and interruptions.
Make Walls Easy to Work On
Painters need clean, open access to walls to do their best work.
Remove Nails and Hooks
Take out nails, screws, and wall anchors unless you’ve already discussed leaving them.
This helps create a smoother, more even finish.
If you’ve noticed any trouble spots, mention them ahead of time.
For example:
Cracks
Dents or holes
Water stains
A quick heads-up helps painters address everything early.
Do a Quick Surface Clean
You don’t need to deep clean your whole house, but a light wipe-down helps more than you might think.
Wipe Down Walls
Dust and grease can affect how paint sticks.
Focus on high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and around light switches.
Don’t Forget Trim and Doors
These areas tend to collect more dirt.
Giving them a quick clean helps improve the final finish.
Think Ahead for Daily Life
Painting can temporarily shift your routine, so it helps to plan ahead.
Set Up a Temporary Space
If a main area like your living room or kitchen is being painted, set up a small backup space you can use.
Expect Some Noise
There will be some noise from tools, ladders, and movement during the day.
Knowing that upfront makes it easier to plan your schedule.
Keep Communication Open
If something comes up, just ask.
At iPaintHomes, we always encourage homeowners to stay involved and speak up if they have questions.
Exterior Painting? Here’s What to Do
If you’re painting the outside of your home, the prep is a little different.
Clear Around the House
Move anything close to the exterior walls, like:
Patio furniture
Plants
Grills
Decorations
This gives painters room to work safely.
Trim Back Landscaping
Cut back any bushes or branches touching the house.
It makes access easier and helps protect your landscaping.
Close Windows and Doors
Make sure everything is shut before work begins to keep dust and paint outside.
What You Don’t Need to Worry About
It’s easy to feel like you need to do everything—but you really don’t.
Professional painters handle:
Repairs and patching
Sanding and priming
Floor protection
Paint application
Your job is simply to make the space accessible.
How iPaintHomes Helps Make It Easy
At iPaintHomes, we focus on repainting existing homes, so we understand how to work around real-life spaces.
We’ll walk you through what to expect before the project starts, and once we’re on-site, we handle the rest.
Our goal is simple—make the process smooth and deliver results that last.
Final Thoughts
Getting your home ready for painting doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Just focus on the basics:
Clear the space
Protect your belongings
Make walls easy to access
That’s really it.
These small steps help everything run smoother and ensure your new paint looks its best.
