Madison's older neighborhoods — Vilas, Tenney-Lapham, Nakoma, Marquette, and the near east and west sides — are full of homes with plaster walls, original woodwork and details you simply can't buy today. Painting them well takes more than a roller and a weekend.
1. Plaster Is Not Drywall
Lath and plaster walls are harder and denser than drywall, and after decades they develop hairline cracks, bulges and loose areas. Cracks need to be properly opened, bonded and filled — not just caulked — or they'll return within a season. Our drywall repair team handles plaster repair as part of prep.
2. Lead-Safe Practices
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. Federal EPA rules require lead-safe work practices for renovation and painting work that disturbs those surfaces. That means containment, careful dust control, and proper cleanup. Always ask any contractor how they handle older homes.
3. Preserving Original Woodwork
Some homeowners want to keep stained oak or fir trim exactly as it is. Others want to brighten dark rooms with painted trim. Both are valid — if you're leaning toward a lighter look, read about our wood-to-white transformations and the proper prep that makes painted trim last.
4. Choosing Period-Appropriate Colors
Historic homes look best with colors that respect their architecture. Warm whites, muted greens, deep blues and earthy neutrals tend to suit Craftsman, Prairie and Colonial Revival homes. For exterior ideas, see our best exterior paint colors for Wisconsin homes.
5. Work With a Contractor Who Slows Down
Historic homes reward patience. Our interior painting and exterior painting crews take the time to prep carefully and protect what makes your home special. Request a free estimate and we'll walk the house with you.