Painting your home is one of the fastest ways to upgrade your space—but there’s a catch. Even the best paint won’t hide sloppy prep work. Here in Springfield, Missouri, with our mix of humid summers, cold snaps, and ever-changing weather, the difference between a paint job that lasts and one that peels comes down to preparation. Let’s break down the smart way to get your home ready for that fresh coat, whether you’re tackling a DIY project or calling in local pros.
Know What You’re Working With
Start by taking a slow walk through your house, notepad in hand. Look for cracked walls, peeling paint, old nail holes, or any weird stains. Pay extra attention to areas around windows—Springfield’s humidity can sneak in and cause hidden moisture problems. If you spot mold or soft drywall, don’t just slap on paint and hope for the best. Fixing these issues now saves you a headache (and cash) down the road.
It’s not just the walls—look at the trim, baseboards, cabinets, and even the ceiling. If your home is more than a few decades old (hello, classic Rountree bungalows and Phelps Grove gems), you might need to deal with lead paint or ancient hardware. Don’t skip these steps. They matter.
Tackle Repairs Like a Pro
Don’t cut corners. Scrape off loose or flaking paint, fill holes and cracks with spackle, and sand everything until it feels smooth under your hand. If you’re not sure what to use, swing by a local hardware store (try Wickman’s or Sutherlands) and ask—they know what works for Springfield’s homes.
If you find moisture issues or soft spots in drywall, get them fixed before you paint. Nothing ruins a new paint job faster than hidden water damage. Same goes for any mildew—clean it with a mold-killing cleaner and let it dry thoroughly.
Clean Up and Clear Out
Once the repairs are done, give your walls a serious cleaning. Springfield’s pollen and dust get everywhere, and paint won’t stick to grime. Wipe down walls with a damp sponge or mild detergent, and let them dry fully. Move or cover your furniture, and roll out drop cloths to protect floors. Trust us—paint splatters are not a look you want.
Take off outlet covers, switch plates, curtain rods, and any hardware that could get in the way. It might feel tedious, but it’s the only way to get those crisp, professional-looking edges.
Get Your Supplies Ready
Springfield’s hardware stores are packed with every brush, roller, or paint tray you’ll ever need. Choose high-quality brushes and rollers that match the type of paint you’re using (ask the paint counter if you’re not sure). For clean lines around trim and baseboards, painter’s tape is your new best friend. Stock up on gloves, masks, and—if you’re painting ceilings or tall walls—a sturdy ladder. A few bucks on drop cloths will save your floors and sanity.
And if you’re painting during one of those muggy Ozarks summers? Make sure your space is well-ventilated, or wait for a dry day. Missouri humidity can mess with paint drying times and finish.
Don’t Skip the Primer
If you want a paint job that actually lasts, use a good primer—especially on patched areas, stains, or when switching from a dark to light color. Primer helps your paint stick, covers up old stains, and prevents weird color bleed-through. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in Springfield’s ever-changing weather.
Final Prep: Tape, Mask, and Double-Check
Before opening that paint can, mask off your trim, windows, and any area you want to keep clean with painter’s tape. Double-check that everything is covered—including floors and any nearby furniture. Nothing kills the vibe of a freshly painted living room like a rogue paint drip on your favorite chair.
Plan Your Painting Day
For best results, start with ceilings, then move to walls, and finish with the trim. Work in sections, keep your brushes and rollers clean, and always keep a damp rag handy for quick cleanup. Don’t rush—let each coat dry fully before adding another. If you’re painting with a friend, throw on some music or a podcast to keep the energy up.
Enjoy Your Fresh Space
Take a step back, check for missed spots, and touch up any thin areas. Carefully peel off the painter’s tape for sharp lines, replace your hardware, and let everything cure for a few days before moving furniture back or hanging art. Then—invite some friends over and show off your hard work (or your excellent choice of painters).