How to Repair Wall Damage Before Painting 

In many ways, paint is the miracle cure-all to transform worn, dark, dated spaces into new and rejuvenated ones. Unfortunately, paint can only do so much when the walls have holes, dents, stains, or blemishes. Those common wall issues need to be repaired or replaced prior to using paint to transform your space. 

Let’s take a closer look at some common wall damage and surface blemishes and how you can address them prior to painting. 

Holes in Drywall 

This is one of the most common blemishes that homeowners come up against when readying to paint. From nail holes to dents caused by chairs or other furnishings, these imperfections can not be covered by paint. Instead, painting professionals will advise that these holes be filled. 

Joint compound or putty can be used to fill the holes or small dents. By scraping a small amount over the hole, allowing it to dry, then sanding, the hole will cease to exist. In some cases, larger nail holes or dents may need mesh covering and further puttying before the hole is completely filled. 

Ceiling & Wall Stains 

While many stains that show up on walls and ceilings are easily washed off. Some, however, are a sign of a larger problem such as a leaky pipe or roof in ill repair. Before you start dealing with the ceiling stains, talk to a professional to get to the root of the problem before you start covering it up. 

Once the cause of the stain is determined and the issue resolved, you can attempt to remove the stains with magic erasers, stain removers, and (if all else fails) stain covering primer. 

Chipping & Bubbling Paint 

Many homeowners are tempted to paint over chipping or bubbling paint without remedying the problem first. Doing so will mean that your new coat of paint will look uneven and will likely chip again in a matter of months. 

Scraping and sanding the paint that is chipping is one of the best ways to ensure that the wall is flat and that the primer and topcoat adhere properly. 

Cracks 

Again, if your walls have cracks in them, consult a home inspector who can tell you if there is a deeper issue with the foundation. If an expert deems the walls and foundation in good repair, you can take drywall tape and patch the cracks. From there use putty and then sand until the walls are repaired and smooth. Don’t forget your primer and topcoat to make the surface look new again. 

No matter what the blemish is on your walls and ceiling, be sure to have them checked out before you start painting over them. Otherwise, you could just be putting a band-aid on a larger issue. 

Categorised in: Interior painting, Jerry Enos