Term: masking

In painting, "masking" refers to the process of covering or protecting areas that should not be painted. This is typically done using materials such as masking tape, plastic sheeting, or drop cloths to create clean, sharp edges and prevent paint from accidentally getting on surfaces like trim, windows, fixtures, or adjacent walls.

Masking is a crucial step in both residential and commercial painting projects to ensure a professional finish and reduce cleanup time. Proper masking helps achieve crisp lines, especially during cutting-in or when using spray equipment.

In Australia, as in other countries, professional painters often use high-quality masking products suited to the surface and paint type to ensure no bleed-through or damage upon removal.