Which technique is best for preparing drywall before painting?

Preparing drywall before painting is a crucial step to ensure a smooth and evenly finished surface. Filling cracks and smoothing the surface is essential because any imperfections—such as holes, dents, or cracks—can show through the paint if not properly addressed. By filling these imperfections with the appropriate compound and sanding them down, the surface becomes more uniform, which will lead to a better quality finish after painting.

While other techniques like washing with soap and water can be useful for cleaning, they do not address the surface preparation needed for painting. Similarly, applying tape over joints is important for seams but doesn’t contribute to the overall surface smoothness that is necessary before painting. Applying a coat of primer is also recommended, but it comes after the surface is prepared and smoothed. Therefore, the best initial technique for preparing drywall before applying paint is to focus on filling cracks and smoothing the surface for an optimal result.