Tricky painting issues

Tricky Paint Jobs and How to Handle Them

Painting your walls is a quick, easy and fun home improvement project that can change up the energy and look of a room. But not all walls are created equal. Some are simple to paint while others are a bit more complicated. Here are some pointers on how to handle some of the trickiest paint jobs in your home:

How to Paint Brick Painting over your brick wall can brighten up a room and add a modern touch to your home. Before you paint a brick wall, ask yourself three questions: Were the bricks laid in the past year? Is there any damage to the bricks or mortar? Has it already been painted? Brick walls go through a leaching process in which alkali and efflorescence leave the surface. It's best to paint after this processes has finished, Realtor.com explained. If there's damage, add fresh mortar or acrylic caulk to fix it up. Finally, any old paint should be removed before the fresh coat is applied. Scrub the bricks clean before you get started. Then, add a couple layers of masonry sealer, which prevents moisture from building up beneath the paint. Next, paint on several layers of primer. Once it's dry, it's time to add your paint color. How to Paint Over Chalkboard Chalkboard walls can be functional or entertaining, but while the rough surface is great for drawing, it's challenging to cover up. First, you'll need to first remove those bumps: Use 180-grit sandpaper to even out the surface, Better Homes & Gardens recommended. Next, wash away any dust with a mild cleanser. When the wall is smooth and dry, add one or two layers of primer, then finish up with your choice of paint. How to Paint Over Wallpaper When your wallpaper goes out of style, the task of removing it might seem daunting. Luckily, if it's still in good shape, you can paint right over it without leaving a trace of that outdated pattern. Before you begin, look for damaged areas and patch them up. Paste down any straying corners with the right adhesive. Using clear caulk around the perimeter of the paper can also reduce the risk of it peeling post-paint, Benjamin Moore explained. If your wallpaper is textured, paint on a layer of spackle to smooth it out. Sand down seams so they don't stand out against the rest of the wall. Now you're ready for the primer and paint. How to Paint Over Paneling Wood paneling has a distinct '70s vibe to it. If you're aiming to bring a more updated look to your home, it may be time to cover up your faux wood walls. First, tame the texture of the wall with 220-grit sandpaper, then wash it with a mild cleanser, HGTV suggested. At this point, you have a choice to fill or leave the vertical grooves. Fill them with spackle, then sand it smooth. Or, leave the grooves to keep some character and make your walls appear taller. Use a stain blocking primer to prepare the wall. When dry, it's time to paint.