If your home has a plaster finish, it may feel dated or kitschy. It’s not uncommon to feel that way about old homes with plaster finishes, but it doesn’t mean you can’t tackle this project and bring a new look to your home. With some planning and preparation, painting the plaster walls in your home is an affordable and easy DIY project. Avoiding the common mistakes of other DIYers who have tackled this job before you will help make things go smoother. We’ll share everything you need to know about tackling this project successfully, from prep work to choosing the right paint for your needs. Read on for more information!
What is Plaster?
Plaster is a soft and porous material that is applied to the walls of a home or building to create a smooth surface and provide an aesthetic design element to the interior of the home. It hardens after application and is often used as a base for decorative finishes like paint, paper, or wallpaper. There are a few different types of plaster you may encounter in your home, including: Stucco: Stucco is a mixture that is applied over masonry like concrete or cinder blocks. It is not applied directly to the surface of the wall. Plaster: Plaster is applied directly to the surface of the wall. Hardboard: Hardboard is a type of plaster that is applied to the surface of a wood or fiberboard substrate.
Why Paint Plaster Walls?
Painting plaster walls is an effective way to give your home a facelift without significant renovations. Decorating with paint is an inexpensive solution for giving your home a new look. You can also create an entirely new aesthetic in your home by choosing a unique paint color. Stripping the old paint from a wall to expose the plaster underneath and then repainting the surface will give your home a fresh new look in just a few short hours. Using a good quality paint will ensure your walls will last for many years.
How to Prepare Your Walls Before Painting
What You Will Need
- Step Ladder
- Masking Tape
- Paint Tray
- Emulsion Paint
- Filler
- Paint Roller
- Paint Brush
The first step in the process of painting new plaster starts with proper preparation. Be sure to patch holes and cracks in the plaster before painting so that the new paint adheres properly to the surface. Remove wall decorations, light switch plates, and electrical outlets that are attached to the wall with screws. Take care to note where these items were attached and mark the area with painter’s tape so you remember what needs to be replaced after painting. You will also want to cover any furniture or items that you do not want to be painted before starting the project. You can cover furniture with plastic drop cloths or newspaper. You will also want to cover the floor to protect it from stray paint drops.
Which Paint Should You Use?
The type of paint you choose will have a large bearing on the outcome of your project. There are a few things to keep in mind as you make your paint selection. First, you will want to select paint that is designed for use on plaster. You can find this information on the label of most cans of paint. If you are unsure of which paint you should use, ask the staff at your local hardware store. Next, you will want to select a paint color that complements the design of your home and the other furnishings. You can choose a bold color that will stand out. Or, you can go with a more traditional color to ensure the new paint blends well with the rest of the room.
Step by Step Guide to Painting New Plaster
Prepare your walls and apply primer – Take care of any repairs that need to be done before painting begins. Apply a coat of primer over the surface of your walls to seal any cracks or imperfections in the plaster. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step. Apply a basecoat – You will want to apply a primer or base coat to the walls to create a smooth surface for your topcoat of paint. Apply two coats of paint over the surface of the walls with a brush or rollers. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to the next step. Apply the topcoat – Choose a paint that is designed for use on walls, like an oil-based paint. Apply two coats of paint to the surface of the walls. Let the paint dry completely before moving on.
Conclusion
When it comes to painting new plaster, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful finish. Be sure to prepare your walls before painting by removing any fixtures and covering furniture to protect it from stray paint drops. Once the paint is applied, it will take only a few hours to dry and be ready to use. With a few simple steps, you can update the look of your home by painting new plaster walls. Be sure to choose a paint that is designed for use on walls and select a color that complements your design and other furnishings.
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