When it comes to painting textured walls, many people get overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. The type of paint you use can make all the difference in achieving a flawless, professional-looking finish. But with so many options out there, it can be challenging to determine which is the right one for your specific project.
Luckily, there are paints specifically designed for textured walls that can make the painting process a whole lot easier. These types of paints come in a variety of styles, including matte, satin, and glossy finishes, so you can choose the one that best fits your aesthetic preferences. Additionally, they typically feature a thicker formula that fills in the gaps and crevices of textured surfaces, providing a smooth and uniform coat.
So, what kind of paint do you use on textured walls? The answer is simple: textured paint. But with so many variations of textured paint on the market, it’s essential to do your research and find the one that meets your needs. In this article, we’ll explore some of the different types of textured paint available, so you can confidently tackle your next painting project.
Types of Paint Finishes for Textured Walls
Choosing the right paint finish for textured walls can be a bit tricky. You want a finish that will not only complement the texture of the walls but also be durable and easy to clean. Here are some of the most common types of paint finishes for textured walls:
- Flat/Matte Finish: This finish is perfect for textured walls as it helps to minimize the appearance of imperfections. It has no shine, making it perfect for walls with high traffic. However, it’s not very durable and can be difficult to clean.
- Eggshell Finish: This finish has a slight sheen that adds depth to the texture of the walls. It’s easy to clean and durable enough to withstand mild cleaning. It’s a popular choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.
- Satin Finish: This finish has a slight shine that reflects light, giving the walls a subtle glow. It’s easy to clean and stands up well to scrubbing, making it an ideal finish for kitchens, bathrooms, and children’s rooms. However, it may highlight imperfections in the wall’s texture.
- Semi-gloss Finish: This finish has a high sheen and is highly reflective, making it ideal for highlighting the texture of the walls. It’s easy to clean and durable enough to withstand heavy cleaning. It’s a popular choice for trim, doors, and cabinets but can be too shiny for walls in some cases.
- Gloss Finish: This finish has the highest amount of shine, making it the most reflective and durable finish of all. It’s great for highlighting the texture of the walls and is ideal for areas that need regular cleaning, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
How to Choose the Right Paint for Textured Walls
Choosing the right paint for textured walls can be a challenge, as there are many factors to consider. The first thing to determine is the type of texture on your walls. Once you know that, you can move on to selecting the right paint for the job.
- Sheen: The sheen of a paint refers to how glossy or matte it appears. For textured walls, it’s best to opt for paints with a lower sheen, such as eggshell or matte, as they won’t highlight imperfections as much as a glossy finish would.
- Thickness: The thickness, or viscosity, of a paint is important when it comes to textured walls. You want a paint that’s thick enough to cover the bumps and ridges of the texture, but not so thick that it clumps or creates a heavy buildup. Look for paints specifically labeled as suitable for textured surfaces.
- Drying Time: Some textured paints can take longer to dry than smooth paints. Make sure to check the drying time on the label and plan accordingly.
In addition to these considerations, it’s also important to choose a paint that’s durable and easy to clean. This is especially true if the textured walls are in a high traffic area, such as a hallway or family room.
To help narrow down your options, here’s a table comparing some popular types of paint for textured walls:
| Type of Paint | Sheen | Thickness | Drying Time | Durability | Ease of Cleaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eggshell | Low | Medium | 4-6 hours | Good | Easy |
| Matte | Low | Medium | 4-6 hours | Good | Moderate |
| Satin | Medium | Thick | 6-8 hours | Very Good | Easy |
| Low VOC | Low | Medium | 4-6 hours | Good | Easy |
Ultimately, the best paint for your textured walls will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By keeping these factors in mind and doing your research, you can find a paint that will not only look great, but also stand up to the test of time.
Techniques for Painting Textured Walls
When it comes to painting textured walls, there are a few techniques that can help you achieve the best results. Here are some tried and true methods:
- Use a thick-nap roller: A thick-nap roller will help distribute paint evenly on textured surfaces. Look for a roller with a nap length of 3/4 inch or longer.
- Apply an extra coat: Textured surfaces tend to soak up more paint than smooth surfaces, so it’s a good idea to apply an extra coat or two to ensure even coverage.
- Paint in a “W” pattern: Rather than painting up and down or side to side, try painting in a “W” pattern. This will help you get paint in all the nooks and crannies of the textured surface.
If you’re still having trouble getting the results you want, consider using a textured paint. These paints are specifically designed to be used on textured surfaces and can help even out any imperfections. Before you start painting, be sure to clean the surface thoroughly and repair any cracks or holes. This will give you a smooth base to work with and help your paint adhere better.
Another technique that can help is to use a paint sprayer. This method is especially useful if you have a large area to cover or if your textured surface has a lot of intricate details. A paint sprayer can help you get into all the nooks and crannies and can save time and effort in the long run. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and practice on a small area first to get comfortable with the technique.
Choosing the Right Paint for Textured Walls
When it comes to choosing the right paint for textured walls, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a paint with a thicker consistency. This will help ensure even coverage on textured surfaces. Second, consider using a paint with a matte or eggshell finish. These finishes can help minimize the appearance of any imperfections in the textured surface. Finally, be sure to choose a paint that is specifically designed for your type of textured surface. Some paints are better suited for stucco or brick, while others are designed for popcorn or knockdown textures.
| Type of Textured Wall | Recommended Paint |
|---|---|
| Stucco | Masonry or elastomeric paint |
| Brick | Masonry paint |
| Popcorn | Popcorn texture paint or ceiling paint |
| Knockdown | Knockdown texture paint or wall paint with a matte or eggshell finish |
Ultimately, the key to successfully painting textured walls is to take your time and use the right tools and techniques. With a little patience and effort, you can transform any textured surface into a beautiful, polished finish.
Preparing Textured Walls for Painting
Before painting textured walls, preparation is key. If you don’t prepare the walls properly beforehand, the paint may not adhere properly, and your beautiful new paint job might start peeling off in just a few weeks. Here are some tips for preparing textured walls for painting:
- Clean the walls: Before you start painting, clean the walls thoroughly. Use a broom or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, and then wipe the walls down with a damp cloth. If there are any stains or marks on the wall, use a solution of warm water and mild soap to gently scrub them away.
- Fill any holes or cracks: It’s important to fill any holes, cracks, or gaps in the wall before painting. Use spackling compound or joint compound to fill these areas, and then sand them smooth once the compound has dried. If you skip this step, the paint will accentuate these imperfections.
- Prime the walls: If you’re painting over a dark color or a highly textured surface, it’s a good idea to prime the walls first. This will help the paint adhere better and ensure that the final color is true to its intended shade. Use a textured primer to ensure that it fills in all the crevices and bumps in the wall.
Another important consideration when painting textured walls is the type of paint you use.
| Type of Paint | Best for Textured Walls? |
|---|---|
| Eggshell or Satin | No, because they will accentuate the texture and make the walls look even bumpier. |
| Flat | Yes, flat paint will help hide the bumps and imperfections in the wall. |
| Semi-Gloss or Glossy | No, because they will accentuate every crack and bump in the wall. |
By following these tips and choosing the right paint type, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking paint job on your textured walls.
Tools and Materials Needed for Painting Textured Walls
Painting textured walls requires a specific set of tools and materials to ensure a smooth and even application. Here are the essential items you need:
- Paint rollers with a thick nap – A thick nap roller is essential for getting paint into the crevices of textured walls. Look for one with a ¾ inch to 1 ¼ inch nap.
- Paintbrushes – While rollers are best for covering large areas, brushes are essential to get into corners and other tight spots. Use angled brushes for best results.
- Paint tray – A paint tray is necessary to hold the paint and allow you to transfer it onto your roller or brush easily.
In addition to these tools, you’ll also need the following materials:
- Paint – Choose a paint that is specifically designed for textured walls. These paints are usually thicker and have a higher viscosity than standard paints, making it easier to cover the bumps and creases in your walls.
- Primer – Using a primer before painting is a crucial step to ensure the paint adheres to your walls correctly.
- Tape – Masking tape is useful to protect areas you don’t want to paint, such as moldings and window frames.
- Dropsheets – To keep your floors and furniture from getting splattered with paint, use dropsheets to cover them.
- Sandpaper – If your textured walls are particularly rough, sanding down high spots and imperfections before painting helps create a smoother surface for the new coat of paint to adhere to.
Choosing the Right Paint for Textured Walls
When choosing paint for textured walls, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind. Here’s what to consider:
Viscosity: As mentioned earlier, texturized paint has a higher viscosity than regular paint. This means it’s thicker and stickier, making it easier to cover grooves and other imperfections of your textured walls.
Color: For textured walls, it’s essential to choose a color that complements the texture. Lighter hues tend to make the texture stand out more while darker colors can make it look more subtle. Neutral colors like beige, tan, or gray are popular choices for textured walls.
Finish: The finish of the paint is just as important as the color. Higher sheen finishes will highlight the texture of textured walls, while flat or matte finishes tend to hide it. Satin finishes are a happy medium between the two.
When selecting paint for textured walls, it’s best to choose a brand and type that is specifically formulated for this purpose. Paints that are designed for traditional smooth walls may not work well on textured surfaces, so it’s best to consult with a paint specialist or home improvement expert.
The Importance of Proper Preparation
Proper preparation is essential when tackling a painting project, especially when it comes to textured walls. Here are the steps to follow:
- Clean the walls – Before painting, ensure that the walls are clean and free of dirt, dust, grime, or any other debris that can compromise the paint’s adhesion.
- Fill in gaps – If there are any gaps, cracks or holes on your textured walls, use spackle to fill them in. Sand the spackle until it’s flush with the wall to create an even surface.
- Prime the walls – Priming is crucial for providing an even base coat, sealing the wall, and making the surface easier to paint. It also helps your final paint color to look more vibrant.
- Tape off areas – Masking tape is useful for protecting areas that you don’t want to be painted, such as window frames, door frames, and light switches.
Conclusion
| When painting textured walls, it’s important to use specific tools and materials that are designed to work with the grooves and bumps on the surface. | Texturized paint is much thicker than regular paint, with a higher viscosity that makes it easier to cover up any cracks or gaps. |
| Choose the right paint color and finish to complement your textured walls, and be sure to prepare the surface correctly by cleaning, sanding, and priming before you start painting. | This will ensure that your new coat of paint looks great and lasts for years to come. |
If you follow these tips and take the time to prepare your space correctly, you’ll be able to paint your textured walls with ease, and enjoy a fresh new look to your home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Painting Textured Walls
Painting textured walls requires different techniques and materials than painting smooth walls. Many DIYers make common mistakes when painting textured walls, resulting in a less-than-perfect finish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Prep Work: Textured walls should be cleaned and repaired before painting. Sand down any rough spots and fill in any cracks or holes. If you skip this important step, your final finish will look uneven.
- Using the Wrong Paint: Not all paint types work on textured walls. Using a flat or matte finish might be tempting, but it won’t adhere well to the textured surface. Opt for a paint with a satin or eggshell finish that will hold up better against the texture.
- Not Using a Roller: Trying to paint textured walls with a brush will result in a messy, uneven finish. Use a thick-nap roller to apply the paint, which will fill in the grooves and create an even layer of paint.
Another common mistake is not choosing the right color. Test out the color on a small patch of the wall before painting the whole room. Colors can look different on textured walls compared to smooth walls, so it’s important to make sure you’re happy with the color before committing to it.
Choosing the Right Paint for Textured Walls
When it comes to choosing the right paint for textured walls, there are a few things to keep in mind. As mentioned above, a satin or eggshell finish will work best on textured walls. These finishes are more forgiving than matte finishes, and they won’t highlight imperfections in the texture.
Another important factor is viscosity. Paints with a thicker consistency work better on textured walls, as they will fill in the grooves and create an even finish. Paints that are too thin can drip and create a messy finish.
Types of Paint to Use on Textured Walls
Here are some types of paint to consider for textured walls:
| Type of Paint | Features |
|---|---|
| Premium acrylic paint | Durable, easy to clean, resists cracking and fading |
| PVA paint | Affordable, easy to apply, quick-drying |
| Textured paint | Made specifically for textured walls, creates a unique finish |
Remember to choose a paint that works with your specific texture type, whether it’s stucco, popcorn, or knockdown.
How to Fix Paint on Textured Walls That Has Gone Wrong
Painting textured walls can be tricky, especially if you are not using the right techniques and tools. If you’ve painted your textured walls and the result isn’t what you expected, don’t worry, there are ways to fix it and make it look great. Here are some tips on how to fix paint on textured walls that has gone wrong.
- Sand the Surface: If you notice that the paint on your textured walls looks uneven or lumpy, you might need to sand the surface to smooth it out. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand lightly until you achieve the desired texture.
- Apply a Second Coat: Sometimes the first coat of paint on textured walls looks patchy or streaky, especially if you didn’t apply enough paint or used a low-quality paint. In this case, applying a second coat of paint can fix the problem and give a smooth finish.
- Use a Roller: When painting textured walls, using a roller can help you achieve an even and consistent finish. You might need to use a thicker nap roller to get the paint in the crevices and bumps of the texture. If you have already used a brush and the paint looks uneven, you can use a roller to even it out.
If the paint on your textured walls has gone wrong, you need to act fast to fix it. Leaving it unaddressed can make it harder to fix later. Here are some other tips that can help you fix paint on textured walls:
- Blend the Paint: If you notice streaks or patches on your textured walls, you can try blending the paint with a damp sponge. Gently dab the sponge on the surface to blend the paint and create a consistent finish.
- Use Texturizing Paint: If you want to create a consistent texture on your textured walls, you can use texturizing paint. Texturizing paint is formulated with sand or silica to create a textured finish. You can apply it with a roller or a brush and experiment with different textures until you achieve the desired result.
- Consult an Expert: If you are not sure how to fix the paint on your textured walls, or if you don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself, you can consult an expert. A professional painter or a handyman can assess the damage and offer solutions that fit your budget and needs.
Conclusion
Fixing paint on textured walls can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By using the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a smooth and consistent finish that enhances the beauty of your home. If you notice that the paint on your textured walls has gone wrong, don’t panic. Follow these tips, or consult an expert, and you’ll be able to fix it in no time.
What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Textured Walls FAQs
1. Can I use regular paint on textured walls?
Yes, you can use regular paint on textured walls. However, it may not fully cover the uneven surface and could require multiple coats.
2. What type of paint is best for textured walls?
Semi-gloss or high-gloss paint works best on textured walls as it reflects more light and highlights the texture.
3. Do I need to use a primer before painting textured walls?
Yes, it is highly recommended to use a primer before painting textured walls. It creates a smooth and even base for the paint to adhere to.
4. Can I use a roller or brush to paint textured walls?
Yes, you can use both a roller and brush to paint textured walls. However, a roller may be easier to use as it covers a larger surface area.
5. How many coats of paint should I apply to textured walls?
It depends on the color and quality of your paint, but typically 2-3 coats of paint are needed for full coverage on textured walls.
6. Can I paint over textured wallpaper?
Yes, but it is recommended to remove the textured wallpaper before painting. Painting over it may result in an uneven and unfinished look.
7. What colors work best on textured walls?
Neutral and light colors work best on textured walls as they enhance the texture and provide a soft look.
Closing Paragraph
We hope that our FAQs have answered your questions on what kind of paint to use on textured walls. Remember to always use a primer and consider semi-gloss or high-gloss paint to achieve the best results. Thank you for reading and happy painting! Make sure to check back for more tips and tricks on home improvement.