Fixing Cracks Before Painting: The Complete Guide

March 21, 2025

Say Goodbye to Cracks: Your Guide to a Flawless Paint Finish

Ever spent hours painting a room only to realise those sneaky cracks are stealing the spotlight? Nothing ruins a fresh coat of paint like a visible crack peeking through. But don’t worry, fixing them isn't as daunting as it sounds. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can smooth out those imperfections and get a professional-looking finish. Let’s go step by step to make those cracks disappear for good.

Why Do Cracks Appear?

Before patching things up, it’s good to know why cracks form in the first place. Often, they appear as houses settle over time or due to changes in moisture and temperature. Some cracks are purely cosmetic, while others hint at deeper structural issues. Understanding the cause ensures they won’t come back after your hard work.

Gather Your Crack-Fixing Arsenal

Before starting, make sure you have the right supplies. A few must-haves include:

A scraper or putty knife
Joint compound or filler
Sandpaper for a smooth finish
A primer to prepare the surface
Quality paint for the final coat

Choosing the right filler is crucial, and if you need something that gives you an effortless application with a durable finish, Haymes Paint Prep Coat is a great option.

Step 1: Clean and Prep the Crack

Start by clearing away any loose debris with a scraper or putty knife. Cracks filled with dust and loose plaster won’t hold filler properly. A quick wipe with a damp cloth helps remove any leftover residue.

Step 2: Fill the Crack

Using a flexible filler ensures the crack stays sealed even when walls expand and contract. Apply it smoothly with a putty knife, pressing it into the crack for a firm hold. Products like Haymes Paint Flexible Gap Filler are made to expand and contract with natural changes in your home, reducing the chance of cracks reappearing.

Step 3: Let It Dry and Sand Smooth

Patience is key! Let the filler dry completely before sanding it down. A light sanding ensures a seamless finish, leaving your wall looking as if the crack was never there. Sanding too soon can ruin your work, so check for drying times on your product.

Step 4: Prime the Area

Skipping primer is one of the quickest ways to ruin your paint job. A primer helps the paint stick better and prevents patches from showing through. Try using Haymes Paint Ultra-Premium Prepcoat for a smooth, even base.

Step 5: The Final Touch – Painting

At last, it's time for the main event—painting! Whether you're freshening up a whole space or just touching up a spot, two coats usually do the trick. If you want long-lasting colour with excellent durability, opt for a trusted paint like Haymes Ultra-Premium Interior Paint.

Say Hello to Smooth Walls!

Fixing cracks might seem like an extra step, but the results speak for themselves. A little repair work means your walls look fresh, clean, and professionally finished. Whether you're painting a feature wall, updating your ceiling, or refreshing an entire room, these steps ensure your efforts don’t go to waste.

For all your painting needs, pop into Strathalbyn H Hardware! Our team is here to help you find the best products for your next project.

Happy painting!
Candeece