How can I prepare an older basebord for a fresh coat of paint?

Sara Record
by Sara Record
What is the best way to sand/prepare older baseboards for a fresh coat of paint? Mine are old and I either need to sand and repaint, or start over.

Sara
  1 answer
  • Joe Joe on Apr 13, 2017

    Not knowing if the existing coat is oil or latex, I would use a good primer like GRIPPER or shellac based primer like KILZ (original). KILZ carries a heavy aroma, so work in a well-ventilated area. Take all your high points down with a scraper & recess any nail holes with a punch. Find your dings/divots and make sure the area is clean & free of loose paint. Fill with a good quality filler like MH. Sand & repeat if needed. BUY A GOOD BRUSH AND CLEAN IT PROPERLY BETWEEN USES. Lousy brush/poorly cleaned brush=lousy results. I like Purdy products. Make sure your primer & finish coats go on smooth, keep your brush wet, don't overgob and you'll be pretty happy with the results.