A splash of color can add new life to a room and totally change the personality of the space. For the best painting results, it’s important to first repair any cracks, holes or rough areas of the wall or surface to be painted.

Follow these simple steps to ensure your surfaces are ready for a new hue:

• Wash the walls with a light detergent solution and a wet sponge, from the bottom up. This will prevent paint from streaking.
• Carefully inspect the walls for gaps, nail holes, and rough areas.
• Fill in small cracks and openings near baseboards, molding, and trim with painter’s caulk. Follow directions carefully.
• Use spackle or drywall compound to fill larger cracks or rough areas of the wall. Allow this compound to dry and then sand smooth with 120 to 200 grit sandpaper.