Interior painting is one of the quickest ways to refresh a home. A professional job depends on careful prep: moving and covering furniture, repairing walls, priming where needed and cutting clean lines.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent painting provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
Signs it is time to repaint inside
Consider repainting when you see these.
- Scuffs and marks that will not wash off
- Faded or dated colors
- Patched areas that do not match
- Stains from water or smoke
- Peeling paint in bathrooms or kitchens
- Plans to sell the home
What to do right now
In homes built before 1978, do not sand or scrape old paint until it has been tested for lead.
- Choose colors and test samples on the wall
- Decide which rooms and surfaces to paint
- Note repairs such as cracks and holes
- Check whether stains came from a leak that is now fixed
- Get written quotes
- Plan to clear small items from rooms
Choosing paint
Flat and matte
Hides flaws. Best for ceilings and low traffic rooms.
Eggshell and satin
Soft sheen and easier to clean. Popular for living areas.
Semi gloss
Tough and washable. Common on trim, doors, kitchens and bathrooms.
Primer
Needed over stains, new drywall and big color changes.
How professionals paint a room
- Furniture is moved and floors are covered.
- Holes and cracks are patched and sanded.
- Stains are sealed and new surfaces primed.
- Edges are cut in and walls rolled, usually in two coats.
- The room is cleaned up and furniture is put back.
Tips for a better result
- Use stain blocking primer over water stains
- Choose washable finishes for busy rooms
- Keep leftover paint for touch ups
- Allow time for paint to cure before hanging pictures
- Air out rooms while paint dries
Questions to ask before you hire
- How many coats are included?
- Do you patch and prime before painting?
- Which paint brand and finish will you use?
- Do you move furniture?
- Are you lead safe certified for older homes?
Frequently asked questions about interior painting
How long does interior painting take?
A room often takes a day or two. A whole home can take a week or more.
Can I stay home while rooms are painted?
Yes, though freshly painted rooms should be aired out.
Do painters need a license?
It depends on your state. Ask about licensing, insurance and lead safe certification.
How long does paint take to dry?
Most interior paints are dry to touch in hours, but take longer to fully cure.
Learn more
Our main painting guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Looking for interior painting? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see the EPA’s lead paint rules.
This site is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service contractors. All contractors are independent and this site does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on this site.
Helpful guides
- How to choose paint sheen: flat, eggshell, satin, semi gloss and glossPaint sheen runs from flat, which hides flaws but marks easily, to gloss, which is very durable but...