Sealing smoke, water, pet, grease and marker stains and odors with the right primers before repainting.
Some stains and odors come right through ordinary paint. Water rings turn brown again, smoke yellows a fresh coat, grease shows up as dark patches and pet odors linger in walls and ceilings. The answer is a stain-blocking primer, and the right one depends on the stain: oil-based, shellac-based and certain water-based formulas each handle different problems. Odors need cleaning and sealing together, since sealing alone does not remove their source. In Nashville homes that have had leaks, smoke, pets or past tenants, careful blocking is what makes a repaint look clean and smell neutral.
We identify the stain or odor, clean the surface, repair damaged material and apply the primer that fits, often in two coats for heavy stains. We then paint with the finish coat. For strong odors, we may recommend cleaning or replacing absorbent materials such as carpet padding or damaged drywall, since paint cannot fix the source. We use low-odor products where we can and ventilate the space well.
Oil-based, shellac-based and water-based blockers each work best on different stains, and we choose accordingly.
Stains and odors need both cleaning and sealing, since sealing alone does not remove a source.
Severe smoke or pet odor may need materials replaced, and we explain when paint is not enough.
We use low-odor products where possible and ventilate the work area.
Right solution.
Remove residue.
Seals the mark.
Extra protection.
Clean look.
Comfortable work.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
Topic guidePaint Problems and CausesPeeling, bubbling, cracking, chalking, mildew, stains and uneven sheen: what causes each and how to fix them properly.Learn more 
Topic guideLow-VOC and Low-Odor PaintWhat VOCs are, how low-VOC and low-odor paints differ and how to paint comfortably around kids, pets and…Learn more 
Top brandZinsserA primer maker dating to 1849, known for bonding primers, shellac-based stain blockers and wall repair products.Learn more Pick what you see on a wall, ceiling or exterior to get likely causes, what to do first and the service page that fits.
You tell us what you want painted or repaired and when, and we set an estimate visit that fits your day.
We look at the walls, ceilings, trim or exterior, check the condition and note repairs and prep.
You get a plain written scope with products, coats and schedule, and help choosing colors and sheens.
We protect your home, then clean, scrape, sand, patch, caulk and prime so paint bonds and lasts.
We paint ceilings, walls, trim and doors in order, with proper dry time and clean, crisp lines.
We clean up, walk the finished work with you, fix touch-ups and explain how to care for the finish.
A stain-blocking primer usually does, once the leak is fixed and the area is dry.
Cleaning and sealing help a lot, but severe smoke may need materials replaced.
We clean, seal and repaint. Odor in carpet or subfloor must be handled separately.
Where they work best, yes, with good ventilation. Water-based blockers are used where suitable.
One or two coats of primer for most stains, then the finish paint.
Surface Preparation and PrimingCleaning, scraping, sanding, repairing and priming surfaces so paint bonds well and looks smooth for years.Explore 
Water-Damaged Drywall RepairCutting out wet or stained drywall after leaks, replacing it and sealing stains so the repair lasts.Explore 
Storm and Water Damage RepaintingRepainting and finishing after storm, leak or flood damage once repairs and drying are complete.Explore 
Paint Removal and StrippingRemoving old, peeling or built-up paint from wood, trim, doors, siding and brick with safe, careful methods.Explore Tell us about your project and we will call you back to set up a visit.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
