People who have just moved into new homes often redecorate so that the home takes on the appearance desired by the homeowner. However, some people may paint plasterboard walls in the same way that they would paint other materials. This can produce unsatisfactory results because plasterboard has unique characteristics that influence how one should paint such a surface. This article discusses some helpful tips that you should bear in mind as you paint plasterboard.
Sand the Surface
Plasterboard often has tiny particles on its surface. These particles can affect the final appearance of the walls in case you don't remove them before you start painting. Use a sanding tool to smooth that surface in readiness for the primer and paint. Remember to use a vacuum cleaner to extract all the dust that is created on the walls during the sanding process.
Use a Primer
A primer is important because it reduces the amount of paint that will be absorbed by the plasterboard in addition to improving paint adherence. You should therefore refrain from painting the plasterboards directly without using a primer. Care should also be taken when selecting the primer to use. Opt for one whose colour is a close match to the final topcoats that you will apply. This will create an attractive finish since the primer and the topcoats will be properly matched.
Choose the Paint Carefully
Plasterboard often has an uneven surface that can become very visible in case you use glossy paint during your redecoration project. Avoid highlighting those imperfections. Opt for latex or satin paint so that any imperfections in the plasterboard aren't visible.
Apply Thicker Coats
It may also be advisable for you to apply the paint in thicker coats than you would if you were painting a plastered wall. The thicker coats will help to compensate for the small amounts of paint that may still be absorbed despite the use of a primer. The thick coats will also do a good job of masking any tiny surface imperfections that exist on the sheets of plasterboard.
Your DIY project is likely to produce satisfactory results in case you follow the suggestions above. Remember to adhere to all the product instructions, such as how many hours should elapse before you apply an additional coat of paint, during the project. Contact building material suppliers for additional help in case you are unsure about the specific products that you should buy for use during your project.