January is the month of fresh starts, cosy interiors, and finally noticing all the little things your walls have been quietly putting up with all year. While the kettle’s on and the Christmas decorations are packed away, it’s the perfect time to give your home a little TLC — paintbrush optional (for now!).

Here’s your easy, stress-free painting & decorating maintenance checklist to start 2026 the right way.

Interior Ceilings & Walls

(The silent heroes of your home)

Winter light is honest — sometimes brutally so. January is when marks, scuffs, and tired paint suddenly wave at you from across the room.

✔ Look for scuffs, fingerprints, and wear in high-traffic areas
✔ Check for cracks, peeling, or bubbling paint (especially around ceilings)
✔ Keep an eye out for damp spots or stains — early fixes save bigger problems later
✔ Plan refreshes for rooms last painted 3–5 years ago
✔ Make a note of rooms that feel darker — a lighter shade can work wonders

Pro tip: A quick touch-up now can delay a full repaint later.

For trusted colour inspiration and paint ideas, explore Dulux’s expert advice: https://www.dulux.co.uk/en/colour-inspiration

Doors, Skirting & Woodwork

(The details that make a home feel “finished”)

Skirting boards and door frames take more knocks than we realise — hoovers, shoes, kids, pets… you name it.

✔ Check for chipped or scuffed paint
✔ Look for yellowing or dull finishes on white woodwork
✔ Inspect interior doors for hand marks and wear
✔ Make sure caulking around trim is intact and tidy
✔ Schedule repainting or re-varnishing every 5–7 years

Pro tip: Fresh white woodwork instantly makes a room feel cleaner and brighter.

Kitchens & Bathrooms

(Hardworking rooms that deserve extra love)

Steam, heat, and daily use are tough on paint — even the good stuff.

✔ Check for peeling or flaking paint near sinks, baths, and showers
✔ Watch for mould or mildew starting to creep in
✔ Make sure ventilation is doing its job
✔ Use durable, washable finishes when repainting
✔ Re-seal gaps and edges where moisture sneaks in

Pro tip: The right paint in these rooms isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Windows, Frames & Light Areas

(Where winter really shows up)

Cold weather highlights draughts, cracks, and tired finishes.

✔ Inspect window frames for cracking or peeling paint
✔ Check seals and caulking — replace if brittle or split
✔ Look for condensation marks or staining
✔ Refresh faded paint to protect against future weather damage

Exterior Paint & Outdoor Features

(Yes — even in January!) 

You might not be painting outside just yet, but now is the time to plan.

✔ Walk around your home and note peeling or fading paint
✔ Look for exposed wood, render, or masonry
✔ Check fences, gates, sheds, and garages
✔ Identify areas needing repair before spring painting begins
✔ Book early — spring slots fill fast!

Pro tip: Exterior prep in winter means smoother, longer-lasting results later.

For expert home maintenance tips and decorating advice, explore Better Homes & Gardens.

https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/

Wallpaper & Feature Walls

(Still loving them?)

January is reflection season — and sometimes that includes your décor choices.

✔ Check for lifting seams or bubbling wallpaper
✔ Look for sun fading or moisture damage
✔ Decide if feature walls still spark joy
✔ Plan removals properly (future you will thank you)

Simple Habits That Protect Your Paint

Small actions = longer-lasting results.

✔ Clean marks gently — harsh scrubbing damages paint
✔ Wipe spills quickly before they stain
✔ Keep leftover paint labelled for easy touch-ups
✔ Avoid overloading walls with hooks or fixings
✔ Call in the pros before small issues grow big

The January Takeaway 

Your home doesn’t need a full makeover to feel fresh — just a little attention, good planning, and the right finishes in the right places.

A well-maintained paint job:
– Looks better
– Lasts longer
– Protects your home
– Saves money long-term

And when you’re ready to refresh, restore, or reimagine — that’s where experienced painters & decorators truly shine.

https://www.paintersanddecorators.co/painting-decorating-surrey/