How to paint interior walls

Learn how to prepare your walls prior to painting. Select your room to discover the products best suited to your project. The right preparation and topcoat helps ensure a superior finish.

Painting guide for interior walls
Photos - left/bottom right: Bryce Carleton, top right: Maree Homer

Preparation flowcharts

Select the wall surface you will be painting from the list below to view how to prepare the surface.

New paperfaced plasterboard walls
Previously painted plasterboard walls, select your room below...
Painting over wallpaper (in good condition)
Stripping old wallpaper prior to painting

Room flowcharts — What room are you painting?

Select the room you will be repainting from the list below to view how to prepare and finish the surface.

It is impossible to cover all decorating scenarios in a single document, so if you are in doubt about any aspect of your project please contact Resene for assistance.

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Painting guide for interior rooms How to paint your home