What is the most efficient process for prepping and painting older textured walls and ceilings in a 90s-built home, and what primer is recommended for drywall finishing?
Hey there! I received some fantastic advice on my previous post, and after trying out another drywall group, I think I’ll stick to posting here from now on! 😅
So, quick recap: I recently bought a house from the 90’s that hasn’t seen a paintbrush in ages, and I’m getting ready to paint. Originally, I was planning on removing the popcorn ceilings and giving them a flat finish, while adding a knockdown texture to the flat half of the walls (the rest already have knockdown texture). I’ve started removing the popcorn from the ceilings, and I’ve had a bit of a change of heart – I’m now going for an orange peel finish all around.
The walls with knockdown texture haven’t been touched since the 90’s and they don’t have any peeling paint. Do you think it’s necessary for me to lightly sand, skim coat, prime, and then apply the orange peel finish? Meanwhile, for the flat walls, I’m aiming to get them super smooth where there were nail holes/damage, then spray painting. I also have to retape some areas and skim coat the ceilings.
So, here’s my question: Does this process sound right, or is there
When working on the ceiling, I always start by taping. I use All-Purpose USG (green lid) for taping, let it dry for 24 hours, then apply Plus 3 (blue lid) slightly wider than the tape and feather the edges. After letting it dry for 24 hours, lightly sand it before applying a finish coat of mud using a 12-inch drywall knife. Smooth out any high spots and apply a skim coat.
If you’re new to painting, I suggest using a brush and roller. I have been painting interiors professionally for 30 years and have found that spraying is not always the most efficient method for achieving a smooth wall finish.
I was referring to completing the drywall, not painting.
I think it’s a good idea to start with the finish paint… and… have you considered testing the popcorn ceiling for asbestos? It’s important to avoid breathing in asbestos particles and spreading them throughout the house. Make sure you have the proper equipment to remove it.
I am fully prepared with the necessary equipment and materials. Rest assured, there is no asbestos involved. Just to clarify, I am referring to the finishing of the drywall, not painting.
I think your plan for the drywall is spot on. Make sure to sand the knockdown to avoid any high spots and apply a skim coat. ‘t forget to tape and skim the ceilings before painting. For a consistent finish with some orange peel texture, consider using a 3/4” nap roller. While spraying is an option, it may lead to a more even surface.
That’s great, , thank you! I have a good hopper and gun that gives a nice orange peel texture. I was wondering if it’s absolutely necessary to prime before spraying the orange peel for a consistent look. Getting conflicting advice, haha.
Hey , using a good PVA Primer sealer over fresh drywall or taping/patching will always result in a better finish. My bad for not mentioning this earlier.
Hey , do you have any recommendations for products? I plan on giving everything a fresh skim coat to ensure it turns out smooth!
I suggest using the USG multipurpose joint compound with the green lid, make sure to mix it well. It’s great for spreading smoothly, stable, and perfect for taping. Any PVA primer will work for priming, Sherwinn Williams offers a good contractor’s grade PVA at a fair price.
Awesome! I already have the Plus 3 and multipurpose, just needed a good drywall primer recommendation, but now I’m all set. Thanks a bunch.
Is here to assist. Best of luck!
If you’re keeping the flat walls as they are, just fill holes, sand, prime, and paint. Your ceiling plan sounds good to me. I’m just a DIYer, but I’ve scraped ceilings in my 90s house and the results were great!
I plan to apply an orange peel finish on both the walls and ceiling.