So you want to paint your walls? You see endless ripples, waves, cracks and flaws. With the proper prep for interior surfaces and paint only your imagination can stop you from having the professional look you are aiming for. After you prep interior surfaces your walls can become a beautiful accent or an attractive center to your room.
You must begin by the proper interior surface preparation. Taking the time to clean and prime your walls will guarantee a longer lasting paint finish.
Begin by washing your walls. Using a damp, not dripping sponge, wash with a common household cleaner from the bottom up to avoid streaking. Rinse with clear water and let dry.
Prep interior surfaces and fix any problems now.
Water stains: Use a stain sealing primer that contains shellac. Remember to check why you have a water stain. Immediate attention to the problem will prevent major problems down the road. If left unsealed your new faux finish will eventually be ruined by the stain showing through.
Colored stains: Crayon and marker are not always removed easily. Apply a stain remover and use a sealing primer.
Mildew and Mold: If it is mildew it will not wash away with water and detergent. Use a soft bristle brush to scrub away the mildew using one part chlorine bleach to four parts water which will kill the mildew. Then wash with a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution rinsing with clear water.
Peeling paint: Scrape away the loose paint and apply a thin coat of spackle to the edges of the remaining paint. Allow to dry thoroughly and sand lightly. Wipe clean with a damp sponge. This will create a smooth transition between the bare wall and the surrounding surfaces.
Filling small nail holes: Fill completely the nail hole with spackle or drywall compound until level with the wall and smooth with sandpaper after it has dried. If the nail hole is in drywall drive a new screw about 2 inches from the original sinking the head slightly below the surface and follow the directions above.
Filling dents and gouges in drywall: Fill the dent with spackle. For deep holes you may have to build up layers allowing the layers to dry as you go. For large holes, cut a neat hole and use backer strips from the drywall and hot glue them to the back of the hole. Then cut a patch and secure it to the strips using hot glue. Apply an adhesive drywall tape over the area then spackle. Dry then sand the area. For an easy repair self adhering metal and fiberglass patches are available.
Cracks: Gently smooth away any loose plaster and apply self adhesive drywall tape. Apply a thin layer of compound over the tape to hide the edges, dry, and sand to create a smooth area.
Once you prep interior surfaces it is time to begin. Whatever technique or color you choose the finished product will be attractive and well worth the time you spent.
