How to Paint Untextured Walls
Painting an untextured wall might sound easy, but getting paint to stick to a smooth surface can be a challenge. Most drywall or plaster walls have at least a small amount of texture you can feel when you run your hand over the surface. Wall panels, however, can be perfectly smooth and even slick.
Things You Will Need
- 220-grit sandpaper
- Sponge
- Mild liquid soap
- Warm water
- Lint-free towel
- Alcohol-based primer
- Short nap paint rollers
- Interior latex paint
This slick surface can repel the paint and lead to an uneven texture or chips. Fortunately, you can paint an untextured wall with good results as long as you take the time to properly prepare it.
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Sand the walls lightly with 220-grit sandpaper. This will create a slight texture on the walls to help the paint adhere.
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Clean the walls with a sponge and soapy water made from a mild liquid soap and warm water. Rinse the walls with a sponge dampened in clean water and dry the walls thoroughly with a lint-free towel.
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Apply an alcohol-based primer to the walls with a short nap paint roller. These paint rollers are labeled as 1/8 to 1/4 inch and designed for smooth surfaces. Wait for the primer to dry.
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Paint the walls with an interior latex paint and a clean short nap paint roller. Wait for the first coat to dry and then apply a second coat of paint.
Tip
Apply the primer and paint to the walls in a diagonal pattern to create overlapping Ws or Ms. This will help ensure a smooth and even coat of paint.
References
- "Paint Saves the Day"; Lucianna Samu; 2009
Tips
- Apply the primer and paint to the walls in a diagonal pattern to create overlapping Ws or Ms. This will help ensure a smooth and even coat of paint.
Writer Bio
Kittie McCoy has been a freelance writer since 2008. She is also a part-time personal trainer and licensed entertainer in Las Vegas. She enjoys sharing her love of physical fitness and experience in the entertainment industry via her writing.
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