Painting and decorating are closely related, but they are not always the same thing. Painting usually refers to applying paint to prepared walls, ceilings, woodwork or exterior surfaces. Decorating is broader and can include preparation, repairs, wallpapering, colour changes and the detailed finishing work needed to improve the overall appearance of a room. The distinction matters because a surface may need more than a fresh coat of paint. Cracks, damaged plaster, old wallpap