How to Paint Sheetrock

Last Updated: November 8, 2022 References Approved

Sheetrock, also known as drywall, is a type of plaster surface used to provide a durable and sturdy surface for interior and exterior walls. It is usually installed with glue or screws, and, after installation, finished with a plaster surface that is then sanded down until smooth. Painting over sheetrock hides the plaster's irregularities and adds color to a room; it can also seal the sheetrock to protect it from water damage. Before painting, always prime the sheetrock to provide a coat for the paint to adhere to and to help give a more even appearance.

Steps

1
Remove all sanding debris.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Sanding down sheetrock produces thousands of small particles that must be removed before applying paint. Use a vacuum with a brush extension and go over the sheetrock until it is clean. You can also use a micro-fiber cloth and rub the sheetrock down to remove particles.
2
Cover all holes, nails, and screws with joint compound or masking tape.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- The sheetrock needs to be an even surface before you can begin painting. Fill holes and cracks with joint compound. Nails, screws, and other protrusions can either be covered over with joint compound or temporarily covered with masking tape.
Advertisement
3
Choose a primer.^{[3]
X
Research source} All surfaces must be primed before painting, including sheetrock. Do not skip this step! Apply in thin layers; follow the label instructions for how many layers are required.
- Your primer will seal the sheetrock from water, cover over all irregularities in the surface, and provide a coat for the paint to adhere to. Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) is designed specifically for sheetrock. Latex paint is also an effective primer.
- Choose a primer that roughly matches the color of your final coat of paint. Approximating the color is fine. If you are using light paint for your second coat, be sure not to use a dark color for your primer.
4
Apply the primer with a paint roller.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Dip the roller into a pan filled with the primer. Roll the primer onto the sheetrock in "M" or "W" designs so that the roller is constantly in motion; go back over these designs to fill in the gaps. You should create an even coat over the sheetrock so that no roller marks are evident.
5
Let the primer dry for about 4 hours.^{[5]
X
Research source}
6
Go over the primer coat with sanding paper to remove any imperfections. Clean the dust off with a vacuum or micro-fiber cloth.^{[6]
X
Research source}
7
Apply the first coat of paint with a paint roller.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Use the same technique that you used with the primer. Apply a thick coat of paint to hide any imperfections in the sheetrock.
- Suitable paint for sheetrock would be 100% latex, acrylic latex, or artist’s acrylic paint. Acrylic and latex paints breathe, and provided they are applied properly, they will be durable and long-lasting.
8
Let the first coat dry for about 4 hours.
9
Go over the first coat of paint with sanding paper to remove any imperfections. Clean the dust off with a vacuum or micro-fiber cloth.
10
Apply a second coat of paint.^{[8]
X
Research source}
11
Let the second coat dry for about 4 hours.
12
Remove all tape from the sheetrock.

Community Q&A

Question

When I install sheetrock, do I have to add texture to the walls?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Most people don't. It's a matter of personal preference.
Question

Should you use flat or satin paint for the walls?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Satin is easier to keep clean.
Question

Should you still use primer if the paint has primer in it?

Donagan

Top Answerer

No.