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The home painting process has two aspects to it: (1) Interior wall painting and (2) Exterior wall painting. In this article, we will see what are the right ways of painting walls depending on whether they are interior or exterior. Keep reading.

Interior wall painting

• Surface preparation: When it comes to painting a new wall, it takes nearly 28 days for complete curing of the wall. In addition, waterproofing problems (if any) are sorted out at this stage. Sandpaper and various other scraping tools are used to successfully remove any particles (such as grease, dirt, dust, and loose flaking paint) that could affect the paint finish.

• Primer: Primer is then applied depending on the surface that needs painting. After giving it 6-8 hours to dry, spot priming may be needed if there are any cracks. This is one of the painting tips for home.

• Putty: After the primer has completely dried, putty is applied to eliminate all uneven wall surfaces. It takes nearly 6 hours for the putty to dry. The pasted area is then sanded to ensure evenness by using an emery paper, followed by wiping off the putty dust.

• Topcoat: Depending on the type of finish desired, emulsion paint is mixed with water in varying ratios. Two to three coats of interior emulsion paint are generally applied. The final coat is often applied at the end of the entire construction process to cover up any smudges or marks that occurred on the wall during the process. 

Exterior wall painting

• Choosing the right weather conditions: The first step when it comes to exterior wall painting is choosing the most appropriate weather conditions. Extremely low or extremely high temperatures can turn out to be detrimental to painting. Moreover, excessive heat and sunlight may affect the paint.

• Cleaning the surface: The exterior walls need to be thoroughly cleaned because paint fails to stick on to rough or dirty surfaces. If there is the presence of any mould or fungus on the walls, they are efficiently removed by applying a bleach solution to the walls and leaving it to soak for about 15 minutes. After this, the walls are thoroughly rinsed and left to dry completely.

• Surface preparation: Proper visual inspection is needed prior to painting exterior surfaces. At this stage, it is ensured that all surfaces are completely uniform through the application of suitable fillers. Further, the small gaps that exist in joints and around doors or windows need to be filled. After this, the whole surface is sanded gently, rinsed with water, and left to dry.

• Application of primer: Primer is then applied on the surface by using a roller or paintbrush. The surface is then left to dry for 6-12 hours. This offers an even base for the application of the topcoat. The second coat of primer may also be required.

• Application of paint: After the first coat of paint is applied, the surface is left to dry for 10-12 hours. Post drying, a second coat of paint is applied and left to dry for a minimum of 24 hours. A third coat may then be applied if the need arises.

Why is primer used before painting?

There are different types of primer available, such as drywall and masonry primer, stain-blocking primer, and wood primer, based on the type of surface that needs to be painted. When it comes to masonry walls, primers offer a consistent, smooth finish. In addition, certain walls may have problems related to efflorescence. In such cases, efflorescence-resistant primers will improve the appearance of the paint.

Why is putty used in painting?

Putty is used post-application of the primer. It is used on walls to give it a smooth finish and fill minute pores.

When it comes to ideas for painting the house, paints are typically divided into two categories: (1) water-based paints and (2) oil-based paints. Distemper, emulsion and cement paints are water-based, whereas enamel paint is oil-based. 

Features of both these paints are listed below:

Water-based paints

• Surfaces dry immediately after the water content evaporates

• Possesses low levels of toxic emissions

• Emits lesser odours

• Surfaces can be easily cleaned with water post painting 

• Primarily used for both interior and exterior surfaces

• Does not tend to crack or turn yellowish with the passage of time

• Most paints available are water-based 

Oil-based paints

• Takes a longer period to dry

• Possesses high levels of toxic emissions

• Emits more odours

• After painting, cleaning needs the use of spirits and thinners

• Primarily used for windows, doors, mouldings, trims, and walls

• Offers a rich, glossy finish that is long-lasting

• Is more durable in comparison with water-based paint

The takeaway

Painting your home walls will not only define the look of it, but will also provide much-needed protection against time. So it is of utmost importance that the painting work is done with due diligence and precisely. If you follow the aforementioned tips, you need not worry about wall paints wearing off every few months. If you need expert assistance for the same, contact JSW One Homes now.