Which Comes First: Painting or Renovating?

Ready to tackle a renovation project in your Northern Virginia home? You’ll also need to do some repainting, but you’re not sure which comes first – paint or renovate?

You might think painting comes first, but it all depends on the project. What’s being done – and where it’s being done – can influence when you should paint. A reputable painting contractor can help you make that determination. As residential and commercial painting experts in the Northern Virginia area, we want to offer a few examples you might find helpful. We’re also happy to answer your questions or provide a free estimate of your project – just reach out to our office.

If you’re getting new carpets, you might want to paint first, especially if you’re doing the painting yourself. Any drops on the rug won’t matter since it’s being replaced. If you need to remove the carpet before you can paint, just be sure to protect the new carpet. When in doubt, consult your painters or contractor before you do anything.

Baseboards or trim moldings: If you plan to replace baseboards or other trim moldings, your contractor might suggest painting the walls after that work is complete. It’s easy to knick a wall during the installation of new trim and baseboards. Install the trim and baseboard first, and paint after.

In most cases, you would paint after refinishing floors. You wouldn’t want the dust it generates sticking to newly painted walls. If you’re installing new floors, your contractor would likely recommend painting after the installation.

Kitchen or bathroom renovations involve a lot of deconstructing and building back up again. It’s best to complete that work first and then bring in the painters. Painters can also fix any damage made to walls during the remodeling.

This one can go either way, so it’s best to consult your interior designer. Here’s our advice if you’re acting as your own designer. 1) Create a design plan for the space, including paint color options. 2) Put a few paint color samples on the walls and compare that to any fabric swatches you have. 3) Once final selections are made for furniture, soft furnishings, and paint color, you can proceed with painting when it suits your schedule. However, waiting until after new furniture is in allows your painters to fix any wall damage incurred when moving in new furniture.

If you’re interested in a free estimate on your painting job in the Northern Virginia area? Get in touch with Home Works Painting, a residential and commercial painting company proudly serving the Northern Virginia area. Contact us online today.

1. Should I paint before or after renovating my home?

In most cases, it’s best to paint after completing major renovation work. This prevents accidental damage to freshly painted walls from construction dust, debris, or installation activities.

2. Are there situations where painting before renovating makes sense?

Yes, if you’re replacing carpeting, you might choose to paint before the new carpet is installed. Any paint spills won’t matter since the old carpet will be removed anyway. However, for most other renovation tasks, painting comes last.

3. Why is it recommended to paint after installing new floors or trim?

Installing new floors or trim can cause nicks, scratches, or dust that could damage or mar new paint. Painting after these tasks ensures a cleaner, more professional finish and reduces the need for touch-ups.

4. When should painting be scheduled during kitchen or bathroom remodels?

For kitchen or bathroom renovations, painting should be one of the final steps. Complete all demolition, installation, and repairs first, then paint to ensure the best results and to address any wall damage caused during the remodel.

5. Can I paint before redecorating or moving in new furniture?

Painting can be done before redecorating, but it’s wise to finalize your design plan and color choices first. If heavy furniture is being moved in, consider painting after to allow for touch-ups to any marks or damage that may occur during the move.