Surface Preparation & Priming

A long-lasting paint job doesn't start with color-it starts with the boring stuff most people never see: cleaning, scraping, sanding, repairs, and proper priming. Our surface preparation and priming work is where we quietly protect your investment.

On interiors, we begin by addressing the small flaws that would stand out once coated: nail pops, hairline cracks, rough patches, and gaps at trim. We fill, sand, and caulk as needed, then remove dust so primers and paints can bond correctly. Glossy or previously oil-painted surfaces get scuff-sanded and primed with the right bonding products so new coatings adhere instead of peeling.

On exteriors, prep often includes pressure washing to remove dirt, mildew, and chalk, followed by scraping and sanding any peeling or flaking areas. Bare wood, metal, or patched spots are spot-primed with products designed for those substrates, while rusted areas receive rust-inhibiting primers. For masonry, we choose primers that handle alkalinity and help resist moisture.

Choosing the right primer matters as much as choosing the right topcoat. We select based on the surface and conditions-stain-blocking primers for water marks or smoke, masonry primers for block or stucco, and specialty products when bonding is critical. This step evens out porosity, helps prevent tannin bleed or stains from coming back through, and gives the finish coat a solid base.

Clients around Greenwood, Indiana often tell us our jobs last longer than ones they've had in the past. The truth is simple: when prep and priming are done right, paint looks better on day one and holds up better in the years that follow.