When undertaking a whole house interior paint job, the order in which you paint can impact the efficiency and quality of the final result. While ceilings aren’t necessarily the “most important” part, they are generally a logical starting point. Here’s why:
- Gravity: Painting the ceiling first makes it easier to cover any drips or splatters that may fall onto the walls or floor. You can paint the walls and then the trim afterward without worrying about ruining your freshly painted surfaces.
- Uniform Coverage: Starting with the ceiling helps you achieve a clean and uniform look without cutting in twice around the edges. This ensures that any overlapping from the ceiling onto the walls can be easily covered when you paint the walls.
- Lighting and Perception: The color and finish of a ceiling can affect how light is perceived in a room. Painting the ceiling first allows you to see the impact on light and then choose wall colors that complement the space.
- Ease of Movement: Painting ceilings often requires moving ladders and equipment around the room. Doing this first means you won’t risk damaging freshly painted walls or trim.
Typical Order for Interior Painting:
- Ceilings: Start with the ceilings to avoid splatter on freshly painted surfaces.
- Walls: Once the ceilings are done, move on to the walls.
- Trim and Woodwork: Finish with the trim, baseboards, and any woodwork, as these require more precision and can be touched up easily.
By following this order, you can ensure a more efficient painting process and achieve a clean, professional-looking finish.
