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Prepping woodwork for painting isn't difficult, but wood
trim and other details can have lots of little hills and
valleys. You'll need to clean, patch, and sand the
woodwork before you can paint it, so a little patience is
needed to make sure the job comes out looking great.
Liquid deglossers work well for prepping glossy surfaces
such as enamel paints, but pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions
– the deglosser can't be left
on too long.
To renew varnished wood, clean it with mineral spirits,
patch any holes, then apply new coats of varnish. |
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 To start,
wash the woodwork with TSP solution or a phosphate-free
substitute, and then rinse it thoroughly. Be sure to wear
protective gloves and safety gear when using harsh
cleaners and chemicals. Scrape away any peeling or loose
paint. If your woodwork is badly chipped, it's probably
best to remove the old finish entirely by sanding it or
stripping it. |
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Use a putty
knife to press some latex wood patch or spackling compound
into any nail holes, dents, or other scratches. Colored
wood patch material also can be used. Let the putty dry
thoroughly.
Sand the
surfaces with 150-grit sandpaper until they are smooth to
the touch. Wipe the woodwork with a tack cloth before
priming and painting.