Painting a room is a great way to update the look and feel of your living space. One common question homeowners have is whether it is possible to paint high-gloss over eggshell paint.
It is possible to paint high-gloss over eggshell, but you need to take certain steps to ensure that the new layer of paint will adhere properly. Make sure to sand the surface before applying primer. This will create a smooth surface that can accept the new paint better.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 5 factors to consider when painting high-gloss over eggshell
- How to paint over eggshell with high-gloss paint
- 5 tips for achieving a smooth and even finish
The 5 Factors to Consider When Painting High-Gloss over Eggshell
1. Surface Preparation
The first factor you should consider when painting over eggshell paint is surface preparation. Failing to do the necessary preparation can cause the paint to peel and crack, meaning you must start over from scratch.
2. The Type of Paint
The paint you should use depends on the surface you’re painting and the type of paint already on the surface. If the surface has oil-based paint, you should use oil-based paint. For latex paint, you should use latex paint. Using the wrong type of paint can cause your paint job to fail.
3. Color and Texture
Another factor to consider is the color and texture of the paint. If you’re painting a light color over a dark color, you may need to use a primer to prevent the dark color from showing through. Using textured paint can add depth and interest to your wall. You can use a textured roller cover to apply the texture.
4. Temperature and Humidity
The temperature and humidity of your environment can affect the drying time and quality of your paint job. You should avoid painting in high humidity or extreme temperatures since they can lead to uneven drying, blistering, or cracking.
5. The Tools and Techniques
The tools and techniques you use to apply the paint can affect the quality of your paint job. You should invest in high-quality brushes, rollers, and paint sprayers, depending on your painting surface.
How to Paint over Eggshell with High-Gloss Paint
Tools and Materials
- Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer
- Paint
- Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit)
- Sanding block
- Paintbrush
- Paint roller
- Tack cloth
Step 1: Prepare and Protect the Surface
Before you start painting, there are a few steps you need to take. First, put drop cloths on the floor to protect it from paint splatters and remove any hardware and fixtures like doorknobs and light switches that could get in your way. Next, mask off areas that are not supposed to be painted with tape or plastic sheeting.
If there are dents or holes in the walls, repair them first so the paint will look even when it dries. Use spackle to fill in the holes. Once you’ve filled in imperfections, use 120-grit sandpaper to lightly sand over the areas that you’ve repaired.
Step 2: Cleaning
The next step is cleaning the surface thoroughly. Start by wiping the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust or dirt. You can use a mild cleaner and scrub lightly if there are any stains.
After cleaning, use a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust. Vacuum the area to make sure that all dust has been removed.
Step 3: Removing the Gloss Layer
Removing the gloss layer is important because it creates a better surface that can accept the new paint. To do this, use 120- to 220-grit sandpaper and lightly sand the wall’s surface until the gloss is gone.
Can You Paint Over Eggshell Without Sanding?
Yes, you can paint over eggshell without sanding. You can use a liquid deglosser or paint stripper to help remove the gloss layer of the wall.
Liquid deglosser is a special liquid you put on the wall to make it easier for the new paint to stick. A paint stripper removes old layers of paint from surfaces so your new paint will look nice and smooth.
Step 4: Priming the Surface
Once you’ve sanded the surface, it’s time to prime. Start by applying a coat of Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer with a roller and brush. This primer will ensure that the new paint has maximum adhesion. Allow it to dry completely before continuing.
Step 5: Painting the Surface
Once the primer has dried, you can start painting. Use a high-gloss paint of your choice and paint the corners first. Then use a roller to apply the paint on the walls in even strokes.
Allow the paint to dry completely before adding another coat if needed. Finally, once your paint has dried completely, you can hang back any fixtures and hardware that you had removed.
5 Tips for Achieving a Smooth and Even Finish
1. Preparation is the Key
Before starting, gather all the tools and materials you need to make your painting job successful. Having everything near you will save you time and energy.
2. Use a Technique Called “Cutting In”
When painting a large surface, it’s important to use “cutting in.” This involves using a brush to paint areas difficult to reach with a roller, such as corners, edges, and around the trim.
Use a small, angled brush to apply paint in a straight line, and be sure to feather out any brush marks to avoid a harsh edge.
3. Roll in a “W” Pattern
I recommend rolling in a “W” pattern when using a paint roller. This means starting at the top corner of the wall and rolling down in a “W” shape to the bottom.
Then, move over slightly and repeat the pattern until you’ve covered the entire surface. Rolling in a “W” pattern ensures you achieve even coverage and helps to avoid roller marks.
4. Feather the Edges
Feathering the edges means blending the wet edge of the paint into the dry edge to avoid leaving a visible line. To feather the edges, paint a section of the surface and then lightly go over the edge with a dry brush to blend the wet and dry edges. This technique is particularly helpful when painting ceilings where you want to avoid visible lines.
5. Don’t Rush
Finally, don’t rush the painting process. If you try to paint too quickly, you’re more likely to make mistakes or leave visible brush or roller marks.