Good protection is invisible once the job is done, but it’s one of the clearest signs of a careful painter.
- Floors need real coverage, not thin sheets
- Furniture is moved or covered
- Tape protects trim and fixtures
- Keep pets and children out of the work zone
- A tidy start makes a tidy finish
Floors
Hardwood, tile and carpet each need protection. Heavy canvas drop cloths or rosin paper stay put and absorb drips, while thin plastic can slip and doesn’t absorb. In a hallway or stairwell, protection is often taped down so it doesn’t move.
Furniture and belongings
Small items such as pictures, rugs and breakables should be moved out of the room before the crew arrives. Larger furniture is moved to the middle of the room and covered. Clearing a room ahead of time saves hours and reduces the chance of accidents.
Trim, fixtures and edges
Painters tape off window frames, switches and fixtures that won’t be painted, or remove covers where possible. Good taping gives crisp lines, and it’s removed at the right time so it doesn’t pull the fresh paint.
Dust, fumes and the rest of the house
Sanding creates dust, and painting creates odour. Closing doors, sealing openings and ventilating the work area keep the rest of the house comfortable. Tell the crew if anyone is sensitive to fumes. Our guide to the painting day shows where protection fits.
What you can do beforehand
Move small items, clear the walls, and agree on where tools and materials will sit. Our preparation guide has a checklist. If you have pets or small children, plan a place for them to be while the work is on.
Quick questions
Will painters move my furniture?
Usually they move larger pieces to the centre of the room and cover them. Heavy or fragile items, and anything valuable, are best moved by you beforehand.
What if paint gets on something?
Tell the crew straight away. Fresh paint can often be cleaned from many surfaces, and it’s much harder once it dries.
Want to know how we handle your home? Ask us when we visit to confirm your price.
