Preparing your home before professional painters arrive is one of the best ways to protect your belongings, save time, and ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Whether you’re updating your home’s interior or boosting curb appeal with exterior painting, a little preparation goes a long way. This complete checklist is designed specifically for Pennsylvania and New Jersey homeowners who want a stress-free painting experience.
Why Preparation Matters Before Your Painting Project
Proper preparation helps you to prevent delays and keep your project on schedule among other things such as protecting your furniture, floors and valuables. Taking time to prep ensures you get the best results!
A well-prepared home allows professional painters to do what they do best—deliver beautiful, lasting results.
Complete Checklist for Preparing Your Home for Professional Painters
1. Interior Painting Preparation
✓ Clear and Declutter the Room
- Remove small items like picture frames, lamps, plants, toys, and electronics.
- Empty shelves, tables, and countertops.
- Store décor in a designated, paint-free zone.
✓ Move or Cover Furniture
- Move furniture to the center of the room or to another space.
- Cover everything with plastic or cloth drop cloths to protect from dust and paint splatter.
✓ Protect Your Flooring
- Use rosin paper, canvas drop cloths, or plastic to protect hardwood, tile, or carpet.
- Ensure walkways are accessible and safe for the painters.
✓ Remove Wall Hangings
- Take down photos, mirrors, art, shelves, and hooks.
- Fill nail holes if requested—or leave them for the painters if patching is included in your estimate.
✓ Unplug and Move Electronics
- Televisions, gaming systems, computers, and speakers should be unplugged and relocated.
✓ Secure Pets
- Keep pets in a separate room or offsite.
- Painting crews frequently open and close doors, so pet safety is key.
2. Exterior Painting Preparation
Exterior projects require a bit more planning but make a big difference in the final results.
✓ Trim Trees, Bushes & Landscaping
- Cut shrubs, tree branches, or vines away from the home.
- Ensure painters have at least 2–3 feet of clearance.
✓ Remove Exterior Décor
- Take down wreaths, flags, door décor, and removable shutters.
- Move potted plants, patio furniture, and grills away from the house.
✓ Check Outdoor Lighting & Fixtures
- Make sure fixtures are secure or remove them if your painter recommends it.
- Replace any blown bulbs near painting areas.
✓ Protect Cars and Outdoor Belongings
- Move vehicles away from the work zone.
- Store bikes, toys, lawn equipment, and outdoor tools.
✓ Close All Windows
- Ensure windows are fully closed to prevent paint spray or dust from entering the home.
3. Communication Tips for a Smooth Painting Project
Good communication is just as important as physical preparation.
✓ Discuss Color Choices in Advance
- Confirm paint colors, finishes, and accent walls before painting day.
- Ask about samples if you want to see colors on your walls first.
✓ Clarify the Scope of Work
- Review what the painters will handle (such as minor repairs, caulking, sanding).
- Ask what you should complete before their arrival.
✓ Ask About Drying Times & Access Limits
- Some rooms may be off-limits for several hours.
- Exterior projects may impact driveway or patio access.
✓ Share Any Special Requests
- Alert painters about sensitive landscaping, custom finishes, or areas needing extra care.
4. What to Leave to the Professionals
Professional painters handle:
- Wall patching and minor repairs
- Caulking gaps and seams
- Sanding and smoothing surfaces
- Priming walls or siding
- Moving large furniture (depending on the company’s policy)
- Protecting floors and surfaces
Letting the pros handle these tasks ensures proper prep and high-quality results.
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Painting Experience
- Plan ahead: Start preparing 2–3 days before the project.
- Create a temporary living space: Especially for kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom projects.
- Ask about cleanup: Professional painters typically handle dust removal and debris, but it’s good to confirm.
- Stay reachable: Painters may need quick approvals or answers during the project.
Ready to Refresh Your Home?
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your painting project fast, smooth, and stress-free. By following this complete checklist, you can enjoy a flawless painting experience with long-lasting results.
