How to prepare a flat for painting: what you can do yourself and when to call a professional
Painting a flat can be a refreshing change that gives your interior a clean and updated look. At the same time, it is a task that requires careful preparation and the right decisions. Some steps can be handled on your own, while others are best left to professionals. In this article, we explain how to prepare for painting, which jobs you can do yourself and when hiring a professional decorator is the smarter option.
Wall preparation: removing old paint and skimming
Painting work does not start with a roller in your hand, but with proper surface preparation. Removing old paint is often necessary, especially in older properties where multiple layers of paint have built up over time. If the existing paint is peeling, cracked or bubbling, it should be completely removed. This can be done using a scraper, a heat gun or suitable paint removal products.
Once the old paint is removed, wall skimming follows. Skimming evens out surface imperfections and creates a smooth base for the new paint. In most cases, walls are skimmed in two coats, with light sanding after each coat has dried. This step is essential for a neat and professional finish. If you lack experience or the right tools, it is advisable to leave skimming to a qualified tradesperson.
Wall primer: a step you should not skip
After skimming, applying a wall primer is essential. Primer evens out the absorbency of the surface, improves paint adhesion and prevents patchy results or uneven drying. This is not an optional extra but a standard step that significantly affects the durability of the final paint finish.
Primer can be applied using a roller or brush, depending on the surface. Make sure the entire area is evenly covered and allow sufficient drying time, at least 4 hours and ideally overnight. Skipping primer often leads to poor coverage, flaking paint or visible marks after painting.
Choosing paint and applying it correctly
Once preparation is complete, you can move on to the final paint coat that defines the atmosphere of the room. Colour selection should take into account room size, natural light and the overall interior style. Lighter shades make small rooms feel larger, while darker colours create a cosy feel but require more precise application.
Painting is usually done in two thin coats. The first coat should dry completely, typically 4 to 6 hours, before applying the second. Use good-quality rollers and brushes. A fine-pile roller works best for large wall areas, while smaller brushes are suitable for edges and corners. Uneven application, drips or poor coverage can quickly spoil the final result.
Decorative techniques such as sponging, ombré effects or textured finishes require experience and a trained hand. In these cases, it is best to hire a professional painter and decorator.
When and why it makes sense to hire a professional
Not every task is suitable for DIY. In the following situations, calling in a professional is usually the better choice:
- large surface areas that would take several days to complete alone
- walls in poor condition, including damp, cracks or significant unevenness
- refurbishment of older flats where multiple trades may be involved
- a requirement for a flawless finish without streaks, splashes or uneven edges
Professional decorating companies often also provide additional services, such as cleaning up after the job, using eco-friendly paints or applying specialist antibacterial coatings.
How much does it cost? Indicative prices
Having a rough price guide helps you decide which tasks you can manage yourself and where professional help is worthwhile:
- removing old paint: from around €1.20 per m²
- wall skimming, one coat: from around €4.50 per m²
- wall primer application: from around €0.80 per m²
- painting with white paint, two coats: from around €1.90 per m²
- painting with coloured paint, two coats: from around €2.50 per m²
- protecting furniture and floors: from around €0.50 per m²
Final costs always depend on the condition of the walls and the scope of work.
Thoughtful preparation pays off
Well-prepared walls and a clear working process are the foundation of a high-quality result. Painting can transform a flat into a clean, fresh and welcoming space without the need for a full renovation.
If you are unsure which tasks you can handle yourself and which should be left to a professional, seeking expert advice is a sensible step. Quality workmanship pays off through long-lasting results and avoids the need for repairs just months later.
The key to success lies in careful preparation, quality materials, correct application techniques and professional execution that ensures a reliable and durable finish.
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