Wall putty is an essential and crucial material in the world of interior and exterior painting, decorating and also before wallpapering. This paste-like substance serves as a preparatory material for ensuring a smooth, even, and durable surface for application of paint. Also known as Skim coat, this cement based product can be effectively used for covering cracks, holes or other flaws and blemishes on wall surfaces as well. Although applying wall putty might appear to be an easy task, doing it properly and in the right way is essential for achieving a flawless finish.
The Steps
Step 1: Materials Required
Before commencing the task, it’s essential to have all the necessary materials ready. Here’s what you’ll require:
Wall putty: Get hold of a top-grade wall putty like Homesure Wall putty appropriate for the surface you want to apply it on. There are various kinds of wall putty available in the market, including interior and exterior wall putty.
Tools: You’ll require tools such as a wall putty blade which comes with a putty applicator, sandpaper, a mixing bucket, a drill with a mixing paddle or a mechanical mixing tool and a sponge.
Protective equipment: Personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and safety goggles are essential to shield yourself from the emanating dust and the chemicals in use, while working.
Primer: With regard to the condition of your walls, a primer may be needed to prepare the surface. For this, the manufacturer’s recommendations can be taken into account.
Cleaning: The wall surface must be clean and free of dust particles, dirt, and contaminants. You may have to get hold of cleaning implements such as a broom, brush, and mild detergent.
Step 2:Surface Preparation
Homesure wall putty works best on a completely clean, dry, and dust-free surface. You should wipe off any loose or flaking paint, dust, dirt, loose debris, grease or oil from the wall. Use a wire brush, sandpaper for rubbing them down or a putty blade to clean the surface thoroughly. For particularly stubborn stains and improperly adherent particles or materials a mild detergent solution may be needed.
Step 3: Apply Primer (If need be)
If your walls are in poor condition, stained, or have never been painted before, applying a primer can help create a stable surface for the putty. Therefore, pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific primer you’re using. Post application, it should be allowed to be dried for at least 12 and if possible for 24 hours before moving on. Please note that all putty manufacturers do not advise using a primer.
Step 4:Mixing
You must abide by the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the wall putty. As a rule, you’ll need to pour water and add the putty powder or mixture into a mixing bucket in a 2:1 ratio or as recommended by the manufacturer. Then it should be stirred continuously for 10 to15 minutes with either a hand or an electric putty mixer. Use a drill with a mixing paddle to achieve a consistency which is smooth as well as free from lumps. Be sure to mix only the amount that can be utilized preferably within the next 2 hours or any other specified working time.
Step 5:Apply the First Coat
With your putty blade, spatula, trowel and different finishing tools start applying the first coat of putty to the wall vertically from bottom to top. You can also begin in a corner and work your way across the surface, spreading it out uniformly. The idea is to have a thin, consistent layer. Don’t fret about it, if the first coat is not perfectly smooth. You’ll be able to easily refine it in the next steps.
Step 6:Drying
Allow the first coat of wall putty to dry thoroughly, which can sometimes take anything between 6 to 8 hours. Drying times may vary depending on factors like temperature, humidity and thickness. In some cases with the surroundings being cool and moist, the drying process will take much longer. It’s wise to go by the recommendations of the manufacturer. It’s also important to be patient and ensure that the putty is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 7:Sanding
After the first coat is dry, you’ll notice some imperfections and unevenness. Simply using sandpaper and lightly wiping off the surface after the first application has dried, helps to clear away the loose and minute particles. You need to sand gently and evenly to achieve a uniform, smooth finish. You can wipe away any dust with a clean, damp sponge as well.
Step 8:The Second Coat
Now, the moment has arrived to apply the second coat of wall putty. This coat should be thinner than the first one. It should be applied uniformly in a similar way just like before. The goal is to further refine, level and smooth out the surface.
Step 9:Dry Again
Allow the second coat to dry completely. Again, patience is key. You need to make sure that the putty is thoroughly dry before moving on to the final step.
Step 10: Final Sanding
After the second coat dries up properly, it’s time for the final sanding. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to achieve an exceptionally smooth and even surface. Pinpoint any unevenness or imperfections and make sure to get rid of them. Rub the surface clean with a damp sponge to remove any sanding dust. Now inspect the wall carefully to ensure that it is perfectly smooth and ready for painting.
Step 11:Painting
Now that your wall is perfectly prepared, it’s time to proceed with painting. Apply your chosen paint using the appropriate techniques and tools. The smooth surface achieved through the application of Homesure wall putty will ensure a more professional and polished paint finish.
Inference
In conclusion, using wall putty is a practical and wise choice for anyone looking to enhance the appearance, durability, and longevity of their walls. Whether you’re a homeowner embarking on a renovation project or a professional contractor seeking the best results for your clients, Homesure wall putty offers a range of benefits that justify its inclusion in the wall preparation process. With smoother, more durable, and visually appealing walls, you can enjoy the benefits of this versatile material for years to come.
