Table of Contents
Painting new plastered walls and ceilings can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a breeze. In this article, we’ll show you how to paint plastered walls with a step-by-step guide.
Ensure the Plaster is Dry
Before starting, make sure that the plaster is dry. This can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks, depending on what the plaster is covering. If you’re unsure whether the plaster is dry enough, use a moisture meter to check. If the plaster is too damp, the paint will not adhere properly.
Use a Water-Based Emulsion Paint
Choose a water-based emulsion paint, which is best suited for new plastered walls. Mix the paint with water at a ratio of about 50% and stir well. This watered-down paint is called a mist coat or primer, and it will help the plaster to absorb the paint better.
Cut-In and Roll Out the Wall
Using a brush, cut-in the edges of the wall with the watered-down paint, and then roll out the rest of the wall with a medium to tight roller sleeve. Roll slowly and work the paint into the plaster by rolling back and forth over the same area.
Apply Additional Coats
After the first coat has dried, inspect the wall for any cracks or holes that need filling. Mix up some filler and apply it to the affected areas. Once the filler has dried, sand it back and touch it up with the watered-down paint. Apply 2-3 additional coats of paint, letting each coat dry before applying the next.
Use Breathable Paint for Lime Plaster
If the new plaster is made of lime plaster, it is crucial to use a breathable paint. Lime plaster absorbs moisture from the air and needs to breathe. Modern paints will not allow this to happen and will cause the paint to bubble, crack, and flake away. Lime plaster is often found on older buildings, so be sure to use a breathable paint if necessary.
Painting plastered walls is easy when you know how. Remember to use a water-based emulsion paint, apply a mist coat or primer, and be patient when applying additional coats. With these tips, your plastered walls and ceilings will look fantastic.
Don’t forget to use drop sheets to protect your floors and furniture from paint splatters. Also, before painting, make sure to remove any excess bits of plaster using a paint scraper. This will ensure a smoother and cleaner finish.
When choosing the type of paint to use, keep in mind that cheaper paints may require more coats to achieve the desired coverage, and may not last as long as more expensive paints. Consider investing in a good quality paint that will require fewer coats and last longer.
Robert Martinak is a Painting Technology Specialist with over 30 years of experience in the field. He is based in Dublin, Ireland and has extensive knowledge and expertise in the application and management of painting projects.
