How to plaster drywall for painting or wallpaper

Whether you want to paint or apply wallpaper, plastering the drywall is an essential step to guarantee a clean, polished look for your walls. This procedure produces a long-lasting surface that can resist wear and tear in addition to hiding seams and flaws. Even though it could seem like a difficult task, you can accomplish great results if you have the right tools and techniques.

Making sure your drywall is ready is essential before you begin plastering. Ensure that all fasteners are inserted slightly below the surface and coated with joint compound. Dust and other debris should be removed from the drywall to prevent them from affecting the plaster’s adhesion. Plastering can be done more efficiently and smoothly if these steps are taken the time to complete.

The next step is to cover any screw or nail heads and the seams between the drywall sheets with a joint compound. This mixture, which is sometimes called "mud," needs to be evenly spread using a drywall knife. Sand the surface smooth after the initial coat dries, and then apply additional coats as necessary. Thin and smooth layers are best to prevent a heavy finish.

When the surface is level and the seams are smooth, it’s time to plaster the entire wall with a thin layer of plaster. The wall will have a perfect finish after this last coat, making it ready for painting or wallpaper. Apply the plaster with a trowel, moving from top to bottom of the wall, in long, even strokes. To get an absolutely smooth surface, let it dry completely before sanding any rough areas.

Your drywall will be flawlessly plastered and prepared for the final touches if you follow these steps. The even and smooth surface will improve the longevity and final look of your walls whether you decide to paint or apply wallpaper. The quality and longevity of your completed project will be enhanced by taking the time to plaster your drywall correctly.

Features

GKL is a slab made of pressed gypsum-based mixture between two layers of thick paper. Sheets are normally 120 x 250 and 120 x 300 cm in size, and they are 8 to 12 mm thick. The material is intended to level walls and ceilings and to build suspended structures, piers, niches, and partitions.

  • flat surface;
  • the ability to glue and screw to the base;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • fire safety;
  • ease of processing;
  • heavy weight;
  • fragility;
  • affordable cost.

Although it doesn’t take long to install the slabs, the structure that is produced cannot be used as the final finish coating. It must be shielded from outside influences and given a style that blends in with the room’s interior. Using your hands to plaster drywall is a great way to avoid paying for professional services.

Why do this

The sheets can be fastened to the frame with screws or glue, depending on the goals being achieved and the state of the surfaces that need to be leveled. The question of whether plaster drywall underneath wallpaper is necessary vanishes when one views the completed surface.

  1. The screw heads, recesses at the joints of the slabs, cracks are visible. If you do not carry out preliminary alignment, then pits or bulges will remain in such places.
  2. The outer shell is unpresentable, it has various inscriptions, markings, marking lines, and sometimes even the master"s work notes. It is impossible to hide all this with thin wallpaper or paint – it will shine through.
  3. The outer layer of paper is not durable, it is easy to tear or scratch, you need a hard and durable shield, which is created by plastering drywall for painting.
  4. The outer layer of cardboard has high adhesion. The finishing is glued to it tightly. When the time comes to replace it, then along with the cladding, fragments of the gypsum board come off along with the core. As a result, the slabs have to be replaced, and sometimes the frame has to be redone.

Beginners frequently question whether liquid finishing mortar and the hygroscopic coating on the slabs are compatible.

The material’s characteristic does not prevent it from being finished. Preliminary priming and the use of polymer-based compounds are two remedies for this.

Types of plasterboard

With the acronym GKL, modern industry produces a variety of goods with varying compositions, applications, and price points. Slabs are typically divided into ceiling and wall sections. The former are less robust against mechanical harm and are thinner. The latter may have a layer of reinforcement and are thicker.

The material is categorized more broadly based on its composition.

The sheets can have chamfered or smooth edges. The gypsum must be exposed at the joints in order to form a monolithic shield where the pieces are fused together to form a single structure.

The right choice of material, which plaster is better to work with – which is better

Prior to adhering wallpaper or painting the installed drywall, you should consider the characteristics of the sheets as well as the circumstances surrounding their future use.

  • low specific gravity;
  • water resistance;
  • resistance to rotting, fungus and mold;
  • presentable appearance;
  • compatibility with the finishing coating – wallpaper, paint, tiles;
  • sufficient strength;
  • ventilation qualities;
  • long service life;
  • the ability to decorate drywall walls with your own hands.

Contemporary blends are intended for purposes beyond surface leveling. With their assistance, you can use the effects of organic stone, fabric, abstract, and semantic patterns to create unique and exquisite compositions.

However, keep in mind that plastering gypsum board walls can only be done on a base that has been prepared. And to do this, you must select the ideal primer composition.

Gypsum plaster

Compositions containing gypsum are meant to be worked in dry, warm rooms. Standard sheets used in both residential and commercial construction can be leveled very well with mixtures. High adhesion, along with rapid hardening and moisture retention in the mass, are characteristics of the solution.

  • low specific gravity;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • vapor permeability;
  • no shrinkage after hardening;
  • ease of processing;
  • low thermal conductivity;
  • versatility;
  • simplicity and speed of restoration.

These drawbacks must also be considered: the material crumbles easily in the cold, absorbs moisture readily, and rapid setting can result in a significant amount of waste in the form of leftover composition that hardens in a container.

Cement plaster

Portland cement of grade M600 forms the foundation of the mixture. Additives include plasticizers, dyes, lime, and purified river sand. The mixture is either independently diluted or purchased ready-made. One of the material’s unique qualities is its exceptional strength, which is only surpassed by stone.

  • frost resistance;
  • strength;
  • excellent adhesion;
  • affordable cost;
  • water resistance;
  • fire resistance;
  • ease of application.

The finish’s weight, hardening period, and inadequate vibration resistance are its drawbacks. Standard type sheets are not made with this solution because it releases moisture.

Modern polymer compositions

Construction technologies are constantly evolving, and as a result, a wide range of contemporary polymer compositions with advantageous properties are now available on the market. Acrylic, silicone, polymer cement, siloxane, and other synthetic materials are used to make solutions. The absence of water in polymer putties is the primary distinction from mineral materials.

  • lightness;
  • plasticity;
  • quick drying;
  • easy installation;
  • excellent adhesion;
  • water resistance;
  • durability;
  • resistance to fungus and mold;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • strength;
  • wide selection of colors.

The only drawbacks to finishing are that it is too expensive and not ideal for leveling curves.

Tools that will definitely come in handy

A single technology is used to plaster drywall beneath wallpaper, paint, or tiles; small variations are made for each material only during the finishing stages. Typically, a basic set of tools is required for all varieties of gypsum board and finishing cladding.

  • oil level;
  • tape measure;
  • construction mixer;
  • square;
  • wide and narrow steel spatulas;
  • trowel;
  • trowel;
  • rubber spatula;
  • roller;
  • paint brush;
  • screwdriver;
  • grater;
  • stationery knife;
  • rule;
  • stable supports, sawhorses or stepladder.
  • deep penetration primer;
  • liquid antiseptic;
  • serpyanka mesh (fiberglass, waxed paper);
  • masking tape;
  • containers for solutions and washing tools;
  • grater attachments;
  • putty;
  • finishing (paint, plaster, wallpaper, tiles);
  • rags;
  • cellophane film.

It should be remembered that working with plasterboard entails handling sharp objects, releasing a lot of dust, and emitting strong smells. Wearing safety goggles, gloves, and a construction helmet is required.

Features of preparatory work for walls made of plasterboard with your own hands

In all cases, a number of preparatory steps are taken before plastering gypsum plasterboard structures. Their surface is not prepared for a finishing coat to be applied right away following installation. There are always depressions at the joints and from the hardware, and dents and crumbling corners are common during work.

To fully saturate the material, at least two passes should be made.

Even though it’s not flawless, the surface is sufficiently smooth and adheres well enough to allow for the application of a hard finishing coat. Unfortunately, because of its insufficient strength and heterogeneity, it is not appropriate for roll or liquid finishing. Therefore, the answer to the query, "Is plastering drywall underneath wallpaper necessary?" is in the affirmative. If not, it will be impossible to produce a result that satisfies every quality requirement.

How to plaster drywall step by step – technology

The curvature and finishing characteristics of walls and structures dictate the method of puttying that should be used.

Smooth surfaces require notches to be made on the base, priming, and composition application in that order. A wide spatula or a rule are used for this, depending on the layer’s thickness. It is important to consider that the putty is flexible. Applying the mixture in layers as thick as 10 mm is recommended to prevent the appearance of sagging at the bottom and depressions at the top of the wall. Each layer should dry completely before covering the next.

Beacons and the rule are used when surfaces have a strong curvature, as occurs when drywall is glued to uneven walls. Vertical orientation is used for element installation. They fill the space between each other from bottom to top. There are two or more layers, depending on how big the depressions and differences are.

The characteristics and limitations of the finish define the final surface’s level of smoothness. For tiles, therefore, variances of 2-3 mm are permitted, with glue serving as a compensation. This figure is 0.5–1 mm for wallpaper, and mistakes are not included for paint or varnish.

It should be kept in mind that in order to achieve excellent adhesion when leveling the walls gradually, the previously applied layer needs to be primed. If not, the mixture will release moisture rapidly and separate. Additionally, impregnation needs to be applied to the front surface.

If you know how to plaster drywall correctly, you can save a lot of money by doing the work yourself rather than hiring professionals.

Do-it-yourself drywall for painting

Any paint has the ability to fill in even the smallest cracks, scratches, and depressions, which not only highlights but also makes these flaws visible. Furthermore, stains on the base that might have been created by the primer or any marks on the cardboard could still show through two coats of paint. This means that the use of plasterboard putty in these kinds of projects has to be handled with extra caution, consideration, and responsibility.

When the mixture has reached its full depth, is not compressed when pressed, but has not yet fully crystallized, leveling should start. Using a grater, remove any large bulges first. Next, use a roller to thoroughly wet the surface and spread the material over the area. You then have to wait until the putty has dried completely.

Sandpaper that has gradually smaller grains is used for final finishing. Wipe the wall with a damp cloth, being careful not to remove dust. This produces a texture that resembles a mirror and helps fill in minor scratches. Lastly, a primer is applied. During this step, you must make sure the liquid is distributed evenly and prevent drips.

How to quickly and correctly plaster drywall for wallpaper with your own hands

Wallpaper can cover up cracks and holes and even out dips and bulges. However, this does not imply that they can be adhered to the gypsum board’s front directly with glue. Walls are constructed of it for many years, and much more often than not, cosmetic repairs involving the replacement of the finish are performed. It will not be possible to tear off the strips without damaging the drywall if plaster has not been applied beforehand.

In order to minimize work and prevent future issues, you should plaster over the suspended structure with the least amount of effort possible.

  1. Starter. Will serve as a solid base, background and protection from mechanical damage. The thickness of the application is determined by the degree of curvature of the structure.
  2. Finishing. Designed to align and ensure safe tearing of previously pasted wallpaper for the gypsum board. 1.5-2 mm of coating is enough.

The exterior has been primed, polished, and aligned. Perfect polishing is not required because, once the wallpaper is glued, small flaws won’t show.

Is it possible to apply decorative plaster to drywall

Many inexperienced do-it-yourselfers are curious about whether plastering drywall is feasible and what options are available. Technologies that match the composition of gypsum boards and the desired look of the final coating have been developed for the purpose of finishing them with decorative solutions.

Therefore, a preparatory step that involves priming, reinforcing, and sealing holes, cracks, and openings must always be completed. Regardless of the composition chosen, the base is thoroughly dried at room temperature to improve adhesion and guard against finish cracks.

One can apply the mixture by pressing or throwing it. Once the volume is at the desired level, a spatula or grater is used. Next, a textured relief is added to the composition. A spatula, float, or trowel are used for this. After partial hardening, when the granules stop stretching behind the tool, a pattern is obtained for bulk solutions containing them. Decorative surfaces are primed, cleaned of dust and crumbs, painted, or varnished after they have completely dried.

Is it possible to plaster drywall with Rotband

The German company Rotband (Knauf) produces a unique gypsum composition that stands out among the range of finishing solutions meant for domestic use. The products stand out for their excellent quality, adaptability, lightweight design, and resistance to practically all harmful environmental elements.

The mixture’s ability to withstand moisture and achieve strength is a result of the skilled ingredient selection. It also contains fiber, preservatives, and polymer additives in addition to premium gypsum.

The composition’s scope of use is essentially unrestricted due to its thoughtful approach. Rotband is recommended by the manufacturer for use in finishing areas with any relative humidity, such as bathrooms and swimming pools. The product’s high price may be a barrier, but the solution is also appropriate for outdoor work.

This composition is unique in that it can be utilized for the following purposes at any point during the work process:

  • sealing structural defects after installation;
  • leveling the surface to a mirror-smooth state;
  • creation of a decorative textured layer.

By employing a single kind of solution throughout the entire repair process, you can cut down on repair time.

Rotband is very expensive and has an innate characteristic that contributes to its drawbacks: it is a chemically active material that corrodes metals. Consequently, the parts need to be covered with a neutral composition before beginning the cladding. After the mixture is first sampled and applied to the wall, it is simple to adjust to the rate of solidification.

The first step in creating a smooth, long-lasting surface that is ready for painting or wallpapering is plastering drywall. To achieve a perfect finish, this process entails prepping the drywall, applying joint compound, and sanding it down. The interior of your house will look better and last longer if you use the correct tools and techniques to make sure your walls are ready for paint or wallpaper and have a professional appearance. Whether you’re a novice or an enthusiast, doing a project yourself can be rewarding and manageable if you follow a step-by-step guide.

Plasterboard plaster or putty: what is the difference

The distinctions between construction processes, like putty and plaster, are sometimes misinterpreted and misunderstood by inexperienced craftsmen without formal training. It was not by accident that they had different names; rather, it was a result of several technological advancements.

The following criteria can be used to divide them:

No Parameter putty Plaster
1 Purpose Filling depressions, cracks, and other defects on the surface of the structure, as well as its leveling Leveling minor irregularities, creating a decorative three-dimensional design, pattern or texture
2 Filler size In the starting solution, the filler grain has dimensions of 80-200 microns, in the finishing solution – up to 20 microns Solid coarse-grained components (stone, polymer granules), grain size can reach 5 mm
3 Thickness of applied layer Single – up to 10 mm. With a common multilayer coating – up to 50 mm Always single, within 1-4 mm
4 Shrinkage Up to 5% Up to 1%
5 Application technology Manually in small portions with subsequent leveling Manually and mechanically. Throw, apply in a thick layer
6 Cost Low and medium High

Classification that is both general and conditional. Numerous materials have both qualities, and they can be combined as long as they adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and limitations.

Step Description
Prepare the surface Ensure the drywall is clean and free of dust.
Apply primer Use a drywall primer to seal the surface.
Mix plaster Prepare the plaster according to the package instructions.
Apply first coat Use a trowel to spread a thin layer of plaster evenly over the drywall.
Let it dry Allow the first coat to dry completely before adding another layer.
Apply second coat Apply a second, slightly thicker layer of plaster.
Sand the surface Once dry, sand the plastered surface until smooth.
Clean the surface Remove any dust from sanding before painting or wallpapering.
Apply finishing coat For painting, apply a finishing coat of primer or paint. For wallpapering, ensure the surface is clean and smooth.

In order to paint or apply wallpaper with a smooth, polished finish, plastering drywall is an essential step. You can make sure that your walls are immaculate and prepared for any final decoration you decide on by using the proper techniques.

Set up your workspace and make sure all the necessary supplies and tools are available first. You’ll get better results and increase process efficiency with this preparation. Thoroughly cleaning the drywall surface is crucial in order to eliminate any dust or debris that might hinder the adhesion of the plaster.

A few essential steps are involved in plaster application: first, tape the joints; second, apply the first coat of plaster; and third, add more coats as necessary. Take your time applying each layer, letting it fully dry before sanding and moving on to the next. The result of this patience will be a more even and smooth surface.

After the plaster has dried and been sanded, painting or wallpapering can be done. A properly plastered wall offers a strong base upon which these finishing touches can be applied, guaranteeing that your walls will not only look fantastic but also endure over time. The final product will look amazing thanks to your well-prepared drywall, regardless of the bold paint color or chic wallpaper you choose.

Video on the topic

How to putty drywall

Finishing and painting drywall. All stages. Systematic approach.

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Marina Petrova

Candidate of Technical Sciences and teacher of the Faculty of Construction. In my articles, I talk about the latest scientific discoveries and innovations in the field of cement and concrete technologies.

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