Three Things You Must Do Before Every Paint Job

August 21, 2020 2 min read

Dining room painted white, with large windows with white painted trim and bright green painted chairs.

When done right, a fresh paint job is one of the most efficient and inexpensive ways to transform the look of a room. From avid weekend warriors to first time do-it-yourselfers, there are key steps in the process that every painter should follow to ensure a perfect paint job. 

Jeff Spillane,Senior Manager, Product Training Implementation at Benjamin Mooreoffers three basic tips to keep in mind at the start of every paint project. 

1. Stock up on supplies:

Before opening the first can of paint, assess the needs of the project and source all other supplies necessary so as not to disrupt the process later on. These supplies can include primer and paint, painter’s tape, paint brushes and paint rollers depending on your project, paint scraper or putty knife, sandpaper, roller trays, caulk or putty, drop cloths, etc. “Remember that a professional-looking paint job requires quality applicators so don’t skimp on quality for a lower price."

Shop Paint Supplies

2. Pick the right paint:

Every project is different and while many paint cans may look the same, it’s what's inside the can that counts. While most people focus on what color they want to use, it is equally important to select a paint based on how it is required to perform. “Each Benjamin Moore® product is crafted to serve a specific role, making it the most innovative and best-performing in its category,” said Spillane. “For example, Aura® Bath & Spa defies the old rules by enabling a matte finish in humid areas,and ARBORCOAT® Waterborne Exterior Stains offer superior protection while enriching the texture and grain of exterior wood surfaces. 

Shop Paints & Stains

3. Prepare the surface:

“The biggest mistake a painter of any skill level can make is skipping the proper prep work,” said Spillane. “It is a critical step in the coatings process in order to achieve professional-looking results the first time around.” First, completely clean the surface of any dirt, dust, grease, soap, wax, mildew, etc., then dull glossy areas by sanding them. Prior to application, ensure that surfaces are dry and use painter’s tape to mask baseboards, trim and any other area you do not want painted such as outlet covers, light switches, etc. 

Shop Cleaners & Supplies

 

For more information, contact or visit your local Regal Paint Centers location today. 

©2017 Benjamin Moore & Co. ARBORCOAT, Aura, Benjamin Moore, Natura, Paint like no other, and the triangle "M" symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co. 



Also in Our Blog

50 Years of Timeless Color: The Story of Benjamin Moore's Historical Color Collection
50 Years of Timeless Color: The Story of Benjamin Moore's Historical Color Collection

July 23, 2026 5 min read

For 50 years, Benjamin Moore's Historical Color Collection has brought the character of 18th- and 19th-century design into modern homes. From the quiet confidence of Stonington Gray to the bold statement of Heritage Red, these are the shades that never go out of style. Take a look back at where the collection began, and discover the ten colors still shaping homes today.

Read More
Benjamin Moore's 2026 Color Trends Palette
Tailored Classics: Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year, Silhouette AF-655

October 16, 2025 2 min read

Find fresh color inspiration for 2026 with Benjamin Moore’s new Color of the Year and Color Trends Palette. Silhouette is a study in balance — rich yet restrained, moody yet inviting.

Read More
Cinnamon Slate is Benjamin Moore's Color of the Year. available at Regal Paint Centers in Maryland & Virginia.
The Color of the Year Phenomenon: Benjamin Moore’s 2025 Pick, Cinnamon Slate 2113-40

October 18, 2024 3 min read

Every year, paint enthusiasts and interior designers eagerly await the announcement of Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year, a paint trend forecast that sparks excitement and debate. Whether people are quick to embrace the color or need time to warm up to it, the influence on paint and design trends is undeniable. For 2025, Benjamin Moore introduces Cinnamon Slate (2113-40), a color that’s set to redefine how we approach interior paint choices.

Read More