Should You Paint the Trim or Walls First? A Painting Pro Weighs In

When it comes to painting a room, deciding whether to tackle the trim or walls first can feel like a chicken-and-egg situation. The answer? It depends—but typically, the walls should be your starting point. We consulted David Steckel, a Thumbtack home expert with over 15 years of experience in home building, to break down the factors influencing your decision.

Prep First: The Key to a Flawless Finish

Before opening a can of paint, proper preparation is essential. Steckel emphasizes that filling holes, caulking seams, sanding, and protecting finished areas ensure smooth, professional results. Once your walls and trim are prepped, paint the ceiling first. Then, decide which to tackle next—walls or trim—based on your painting method.

When to Paint the Walls First

1. You’re Not Spraying

Hand-painting? Start with the walls. “Cutting in” (creating precise lines with a brush) is easier when painting trim after the walls. As Steckel explains, “It’s easier to look down at the baseboard for accuracy than to lie down and cut in along the wall.”

2. You Have Help

If friends or family are helping, let them roll the walls. Painting large areas is less tedious and requires less precision than trim work, which you can tackle later.

3. You’re Testing Colors

Paint colors can look very different under various lighting. By painting a large wall section first, you’ll get a clearer sense of the color’s overall effect before committing to trim.

When to Paint the Trim First

1. You’re Using a Sprayer

For a smoother trim finish, professionals often use a sprayer. Steckel advises painting the trim first in this case to account for overspray on the walls. Once the trim is taped off, you’ll achieve clean lines and a polished look.

2. You Want a Head Start

If the room isn’t fully ready (e.g., furniture isn’t moved in), painting the trim first is a good way to get started. With no risk of furniture bumping into freshly painted walls, you can tick the trim off your to-do list early.

The Importance of Proper Prep

Steckel underscores the value of preparation:

• Fill, sand, and prime. Don’t skip these steps; smooth surfaces are critical for a polished finish.
• Allow extra time. “Prep for two days, paint for one,” Steckel advises, noting that meticulous prep reduces the chance of costly mistakes during painting.
• Avoid shortcuts. Once the topcoat is applied, fixing errors requires repainting entire sections, so take your time to get it right the first time.

Final Thoughts

The choice between painting trim or walls first depends on your method and circumstances. Whether you’re spraying for a sleek finish or rolling with a helping hand, prioritizing prep and using the right approach ensures a beautiful, lasting paint job.