If you've ever had your home's interior painted, you may have noticed the various layers that painters spread over the walls. They'll typically apply primer before the paint. If you have decorative texturing done, they'll use a mud-like compound. You may have a painting project currently in the works. Here's an explanation of the various mixtures that the painters will use. With this knowledge, you'll have a better idea of their steps to get the job done.
Primer
A primer usually goes on first. It's often recommended, but not always essential. The primer seals the wall because it contains resins that soak into any tiny pores on the surface. This prevents the paint from soaking into a porous surface, thus degrading the finish. Primers also include bonding agents, so they can stick to many surfaces that paint may not. Paints, however, can stick to the primer.
Primers help produce the finish you're after. They're often white, so they can create a neutral base. If you want to change the wall colour, the underlying hue won't affect the result after you apply a primer coat. The primer can also help you achieve the sheen level you want. Say you want to use matte paint over a glossy wall. The primer can eliminate the shine of the previous paint. If you're touching up a surface in good condition with the same colour, you may not need a primer.
Texturising Agent
Something you may consider adding is a textured feature wall. To do this, painters use a drywall compound made up of gypsum dust and water. They add water to create a mud-like substance with the right consistency for their design. They add less water for a thicker paste that will hold detailed patterns with sharp definitions. They can add more water for a softer design.
This gypsum compound is applied after a primer coat, just like paint. To create texture, professionals can then use various implements, such as trowels, sponges and crushed plastic bags. An advantage of this decorative treatment is that it hides flaws and unevenness on the wall.
Paints
The main ingredient for a residential painting project is, of course, the actual paints. They can be based on oil or water. Often, oil-based paints are used for the exteriors, while water-based paints are applied inside. However, this is not always the case, as it depends on the material being painted. Your contractor can advise you on what's best. They can also help you settle on what colour and sheen to use.
For more information about residential painting, reach out to a local contractor.
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