It’s no secret that painting is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to transform the look of a room. But if you’re not properly prepared, your paint job could end up being a disaster. The key to a successful paint job is all in the prep work. And while sanding is typically the go-to method for prepping surfaces for paint, it’s not always necessary. Here’s how to prep your surfaces for painting without sanding:

Start with a clean surface.

The first step is to make sure your surface is clean. Dust, dirt, and grease can all prevent paint from adhering properly, so it’s important to remove them before you start painting. You can do this by wiping down your surfaces with a damp cloth or using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any dust.

Use a degreaser.

If your surfaces are particularly greasy or oily, you may need to use a degreaser to get them clean. You can find degreasers at most hardware stores. Just be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully, as some degreasers can be quite harsh.

Fill any holes.

Next, you’ll want to fill any holes or cracks in your surfaces with spackle or caulk. This will help create a smooth surface for painting and prevent any paint from seeping through.

Prime the surface.

Once your surface is clean and free of any holes or cracks, it’s time to prime it. This step is important because it provides a barrier between the surface and the paint, and it helps the paint to adhere better. There are a variety of primers available, so be sure to choose one that’s appropriate for the type of surface you’re working with.

Paint away!

Now that your surface is properly prepared, you’re finally ready to start painting. Be sure to follow the instructions on your paint can for best results.

With just a little bit of prep work, you can paint your surfaces without having to sand them first. Just be sure to clean them well, fill any holes or cracks, and prime the surface before you start painting.