Painting after drywall: get the order right
Painting after drywall is the reward for good mud work. But the order matters. Paint too soon and moisture ruins the finish. Skip primer and the seams flash through. Here is the right sequence.
The sequence
- Let it dry. Final sand done. Texture done. Give it a day or two.
- Prime everything. PVA primer on all new drywall. It seals the mud. Skipping primer is the top DIY paint mistake.
- Two topcoats. Cut in, roll, second coat. Flat or eggshell hides best.
Why primer is non-negotiable
Joint compound is thirsty. Paint soaks in unevenly. Seams show as dull bands. Primer seals the whole surface to one thirst level. The topcoat goes on even. This is not optional. It is the step that makes the drywall work pay off.
Who paints
We leave walls paint-ready. You can paint yourself or hire any painter. We do drywall and only drywall — the walls are ready when your painter arrives. Ask on your estimate visit and we will time our finish to their start.
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