Why Prep Work is the Secret to a Beautiful, Long-Lasting Paint Job

At Hazelwood Painting, we often say, "Prep is everything." While painting might be the star of the show, the real magic happens in the work before the brush even hits the surface. Whether we're working on a residential interior or restoring a weathered deck, our craftsmanship starts with the details no one sees—cleaning, sanding, priming, and repairing.

Here’s why proper prep work matters, and what it really includes:

Step 1: Clean First. Always.

Before paint can adhere properly, the surface needs to be clean. Dust, dirt, mildew, grease, or chalky residue can compromise the finish and shorten the life of your paint job. That’s why we often begin projects with a thorough washing—especially for exteriors. In some cases, pressure washing is essential to remove years of buildup and ensure a solid foundation for paint.

Step 2: Repair & Patch

Loose paint, cracked drywall, wood rot, or nail holes? These issues must be addressed before paint can be applied. Our team evaluates every surface for imperfections and makes repairs using high-quality fillers and sealants. This ensures a smooth, uniform finish—and prevents future problems like bubbling, peeling, or stains showing through.

Step 3: Prime for Perfection

Priming is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most critical steps in painting.

Primers:

• Seal porous surfaces like bare wood or drywall
• Block stains (think: water marks, smoke damage, or tannin bleed)
• Improve adhesion so your topcoat goes on smoother and lasts longer
• Create a uniform base, especially important when covering dark or bold colors

We proudly use Benjamin Moore’s Fresh Start® primer line for most projects. Depending on the situation, we may choose:

• High-Hiding All-Purpose Primer for dramatic color changes or tough stains2024 US Product Guide F…
• Deck & Siding Primer for weathered wood or tannin-rich surfaces2024 US Product Guide F…
• Multi-Purpose Primer for general use on various interior and exterior materials2024 US Product Guide F…

For surfaces like glossy tile, PVC, or difficult metals, we might opt for a specialty bonding primer like Stix® Waterborne Bonding Primer, which adheres to just about anything.

Step 4: Don’t Skip Sanding

When needed, we sand between coats of primer and paint to create that ultra-smooth finish our clients love. This is especially critical for cabinets, trim, doors, and furniture painting. Even the best paint can’t hide a bumpy or uneven base!

The Hazelwood Difference

At Hazelwood Painting, we believe exceptional results begin long before the final coat is applied. With decades of experience, our team is committed to a meticulous process—prioritizing surface preparation, precision, and attention to detail at every stage.



Whether you're updating your interior, staining a deck, or restoring custom cabinetry, we ensure each surface is properly prepped to deliver a beautiful, durable finish that stands the test of time.

Need a painting expert in Chattanooga? Get in touch today to schedule a consultation. We’re happy to walk you through our process and help you get the results your home or business deserves.