Put it into practice
How to repaint an interior wall evenly
Refresh a previously painted, sound interior wall with a finish that looks consistent in daylight. This beginner project focuses on preparation, clean edges, and even roller coverage.
What you’ll need
- Interior wall paint and compatible primer if needed
- Angled brush, roller and tray
- Drop cloths, painter’s tape and clean cloths
- Filler, putty knife and suitable abrasive
Before you start
Check the coating before sanding or scraping. Older homes may contain lead paint; arrange appropriate testing and lead-safe help first. Fix leaks or damaged surfaces before decorating. Ventilate and follow product labels.
Step-by-step instructions
Define the job
Choose one wall for your first attempt. Inspect it in daylight and mark dents with small pieces of tape. Test your chosen color on a sample board before buying the full quantity; the same color can look different beside the floor and trim.
Protect and clean
Move furniture away and cover the floor. Remove dust and greasy marks using a cleaner suitable for the existing coating, then let the wall dry. Protect adjacent trim with suitable painter’s tape.
Repair and prime where needed
Fill small defects and let the filler dry. Smooth repaired areas only after checking the existing coating is safe to disturb. Remove dust. Use the paint manufacturer’s recommended primer for bare patches, stains, or difficult surfaces.
Paint edges and fill the section
Brush a narrow border around an area you can roll before it dries. Load the roller evenly, without dripping. Roll overlapping passes using light, consistent pressure; do not squeeze a nearly dry roller against the wall.
Let it dry, then assess
Respect the label’s recoat time. Apply another coat if required for uniform coverage. Once dry, inspect from the doorway and from the side. Follow tape-removal and cleanup directions; wait for the stated cure time before washing.
Check your result
An evenly colored wall with no visible thin patches, drips, or heavy roller ridges when viewed from different angles.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Painting over dirt or damp repairs.
- Treating touch-dry paint as fully cured.
