Service
Surface Preparation & Priming
Thorough prep, filling, sanding and priming, the foundation of a finish that actually lasts.
Preparation is the part of decorating nobody sees and everybody benefits from. It's also the part most often skipped to save time, which is exactly why paint peels, filler cracks reappear and finishes look patchy within a year. We treat prep as the job, not the bit before it.
Depending on the surface that means washing down, filling and caulking, sanding back, stabilising powdery or previously glossed surfaces, and priming so the topcoats bond properly. Done right, the finish looks better and lasts far longer.
What’s involved
- Washing down and degreasing walls, ceilings and woodwork
- Filling cracks and holes, and caulking gaps along skirting and trim
- Sanding back to a smooth, sound surface and keying old gloss
- Stabilising powdery, flaking or previously distempered surfaces
- The right primer or sealer for the surface, bare plaster, wood, metal, stains or patches
What affects the cost
Every job is different, so we quote each one rather than publish fixed prices. These are the things we look at:
- The condition of the existing surfaces, sound walls need far less than damaged ones
- How much filling, caulking and crack repair is needed
- Whether old gloss or flaking paint needs sanding back or stripping
- Stains or damp patches that need sealing before painting
- The size of the area
Common questions
- Why does preparation matter so much?
- Because the finish is only as good as what's underneath it. Paint applied over dusty, glossy, cracked or damp surfaces won't bond, it peels, flashes or cracks. Proper prep is the difference between a finish that lasts years and one that looks tired within months.
- Can't you just paint over the old paint?
- Sometimes a sound surface only needs a light clean and key. But painting straight over flaking, glossy or powdery surfaces stores up trouble. We'll always tell you honestly what the surface actually needs.
- Do you fix cracks and dents?
- Yes, filling cracks, caulking gaps and making good minor damage is standard. Larger plaster repairs we'll flag and sort, or advise if a plasterer is the better call first.
Our work
Recent surface preparation & priming work
Real photos from surface preparation & priming jobs across Hertfordshire and the surrounding area.
Ready to bring your space to life?
Tell us about your project and we’ll come back with honest advice and a free, no-obligation quote.