Prepping woodwork for painting isn't difficult, but wood
trim and other details can have lots of little hills and
valleys. You'll need to clean, patch, and sand the
woodwork before you can paint it, so a little patience is
needed to make sure the job comes out looking great.
Liquid deglossers work well for prepping glossy surfaces
such as enamel paints, but pay attention to the
manufacturer's instructions – the deglosser can't be left
on too long.
To start, wash the
woodwork with TSP solution or a phosphate-free
substitute, and then rinse it thoroughly. Be sure to
wear protective gloves and safety gear when using
harsh cleaners and chemicals. Scrape away any
peeling or loose paint. If your woodwork is badly
chipped, it's probably best to remove the old finish
entirely by sanding it or stripping it.
Use a putty knife to
press some latex wood patch or spackling compound
into any nail holes, dents, or other scratches.
Colored wood patch material also can be used. Let
the putty dry thoroughly.
Sand the surfaces
with 150-grit sandpaper until they are smooth to the
touch. Wipe the woodwork with a tack cloth before
priming and painting.
To start, wash the
woodwork with TSP solution or a phosphate-free
substitute, and then rinse it thoroughly. Be sure to
wear protective gloves and safety gear when using
harsh cleaners and chemicals. Scrape away any
peeling or loose paint. If your woodwork is badly
chipped, it's probably best to remove the old finish
entirely by sanding it or stripping it.
Use a putty knife to
press some latex wood patch or spackling compound
into any nail holes, dents, or other scratches.
Colored wood patch material also can be used. Let
the putty dry thoroughly.
Sand the surfaces
with 150-grit sandpaper until they are smooth to the
touch. Wipe the woodwork with a tack cloth before
priming and painting.
