A mural is only as durable as the surface under it. Here is what a good wall looks like before the first stroke of paint.
The most beautiful mural will peel, fade, or crack if the wall under it is not ready. Preparation is the least glamorous part of the job and the one that decides how long the work lasts.
Start with the surface
Walls should be clean, dry, and structurally sound. Dust, grease, mildew, and flaking old paint all stop new paint from bonding. In humid or rainy conditions, moisture trapped behind a wall is the usual culprit behind bubbling.
A simple pre-visit checklist
- Look for cracks, damp patches, or powdery (chalking) paint.
- Note how much sun and rain the wall receives through the day.
- Measure the wall height and width, and note any windows, pipes, or fixtures.
- Take a few photos in daylight to share with the artist.
Let the artist see it in person
Photos help, but an on-site look reveals texture, light, and problems that a camera hides. It is why every project should begin with a consultation at the actual wall.
Keep reading
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Same artist, same eye — but different paints, sealers, and expectations. A short guide to choosing for your space.
How to brief a muralist: five things to bring
A clear brief saves time and money. Bring these five things to your first conversation and the design phase moves faster.