Wallpaper can be an aesthetic decorative item that is not only fun but also a way of transforming your living space—a wall with beautiful wallcovering paper that looks amazing, creating a vibrant and inviting environment. Use the best wallpaper primer to elevate your interior design.
It’s crucial to carefully prepare the space before applying your new wallpaper. The best approach to make sure your new wallpaper applies easily and resists fading is to use a wallpaper primer. However, what are the best ways to choose and apply wallpaper primer?
We’re providing a comprehensive guide to wallpaper primer, covering varieties, application techniques, and when to use them.
Although it’s always a good idea, a wallpaper primer isn’t always required. Using a primer has several advantages, such as:
- Better adhesion
- Wall protection
- Smoother surfaces
- Defence against moisture and stains
- Better durability
- Simpler, smoother removal
Primer is unquestionably the best option if your walls are freshly plastered, have bare plasterboard, have a glossy paint job or have any stains or damage. However, wallpaper priming might not be necessary if your walls are completely sealed and have a non-porous surface.
Wallpaper Primer Types
Primer with Water Base
For unpolished plaster, plasterboard and other porous materials, water-based primers work wonders. This is due to the fact that water-based solutions’ flexibility aids in levelling surfaces, encouraging adherence and extending the life of your wallpaper. Water-based primers also dry quickly, don’t smell and are simple to clean. They don’t work well with glossy paints or extremely smooth wall surfaces.
Oil-Based Primer
Primers based on oil can be used in many ways. They can efficiently prime a variety of surfaces, including raw wood, hard metal, and glossy painted walls. They work particularly well at hiding stains.
It’s crucial to remember that water-based primers dry down faster than oil-based ones. Oil-based solutions should not be used in places with inadequate ventilation because they also tend to release potent fumes.
Shellac-Based Primer
Alcohol and shellac resin are used to create shellac-based primers. They have a quick drying period and work well on old or discoloured wall surfaces. They are a wonderful option for high-traffic areas because of their exceptional durability.
Remember that primers based on shellac are heavy-duty and release potent fumes. Additionally, denatured alcohol or shellac thinner is needed to properly clean shellac-based compositions, which cannot be cleaned with ordinary household items.
How to Use Wallpaper Primer
- Get Your Equipment and Materials Ready
To prime your walls before applying wallpaper, you’ll need the following supplies:
- Wallpaper primer
- Paint stick
- Paint tray
- Paint roller
- Paintbrush
- Trim brush (optional)
- Drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
- Sandpaper
- Putty
- Putty knife
- Set Up Your Space
Making sure you secure your room’s furnishings and other items is crucial before you start. Remove any furniture from the space, or at the very least, keep it away from the walls. Next, use painter’s tape to shield your ceilings, trimmings, and any other surfaces you don’t want to wallpaper, and cover your flooring with a drop cloth or plastic sheet.
- Prepare Your Walls
You must first remove any previous wallpaper if you’re replacing it with a fresh pattern. If your room has bare plasterboard or is painted, you can skip this step. Removing your old wallpaper will be quite simple if you use peel-and-stick or removable wallpaper. Other types take a bit more work.
After your walls are exposed, start by patching any damaged areas and using putty to seal any holes or cracks. Sand down any uneven patches or locations where paint has begun to chip after it has dried.
- Stir the Primer Completely
Using a paint stick, properly mix the primer of your choice after opening it. This ensures an even consistency when you apply it to the walls.
- Apply the Primer
First, fill your paint tray with a tiny bit of primer. Next, apply the primer to the wall using even, vertical strokes with a paint roller dipped in it.
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