How to Fix a Drywall Prior to Painting
Over time, holes and cracks can occur in your drywall. A cracked drywall is an eyesore that can allow dust, dirt, and pests to get in your home. Therefore, if you’re thinking about painting your wall, repair your drywall before anything else.
If you aren’t sure where to start, here are steps that painting companies serving Kenwood take when preparing to paint drywall.
Start by taking a close look at the condition of your drywall. If your drywall has multiple larger holes, there are dents in it from doorknobs, or you notice caulking cracks in the corners, it will need more extensive repair.
Sometimes, these damages are difficult to spot at first. To make sure you get them all, hold a utility light alongside your wall. Check hard to see spots, holes, or depressions that become visible. Mark holes, cracks, and other imperfections with a pencil so you can keep track of the damages.
Once you have marked holes, dents, and gouges in your drywall, repair them.
Fixing small holes is a fairly easy process.
• Use a pre-mix drywall compound to fill them
• Use two coats to ensure that all holes are evenly filled
• Allow the compound to dry
• Smooth out the repaired area with sandpaper
For larger holes, the repair process is a bit more complex.
• Fix holes under six inches in diameter using an adhesive drywall patch
• Apply a layer of drywall compound over the patch
• Allow the compound to dry, then apply a second coat
• Allow the compound to dry once again, sand it gently for a smooth finish
• After sanding the repaired area, vacuum the wall and wipe it with a damp cloth to remove dust
• Finally, allow enough time for your wall to dry one final time
Preparing Drywall Before Painting
Before you apply your primer coat, wipe the wall with a dry microfiber one more time to get rid of any dust particles still sticking to your wall. Next, apply your primer coat. Be sure to get an even coat. Once you have applied primer, allow it to dry.
After the primer dries, run your hands along the wall to check for rough spots. Sand any rough spots down. Lastly, once you have addressed imperfections, you can start applying paint.
Drywall Maintenance Tips
They say that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Instead of waiting for holes and cracks to appear in your drywall and then repair them, why not take steps to prevent drywall damage in the first place.
Follow these tips to maintain your drywall in tip-top shape.
➢ Regularly dust your drywall to keep your drywall clean and tidy, while also revealing otherwise hidden damage
➢ After dusting your walls, clean them. If your drywall isn’t water resistant, use a cellulose sponge to clean your walls. This is an effective way to reduce the amount of water involved.
➢ Do not wait too long to fix small holes and popped nails.
Mike Chavez Painting is a reputable painting company in Kenwood. Whether you have a residential or commercial painting project, you can rest assured that we can manage it from start to finish. To learn more, call (707) 623-5850.
