How to Paint Untextured Walls

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.

1. Sand the walls lightly with 220-grit sandpaper. This will create a slight texture on the walls to help the paint adhere.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.