Painting your walls can be an exciting way to refresh your living space. However, with so many different finishes and textures available, it can be tough to know what to do when making changes. One common question people ask is: can you paint matte over eggshell?
You can paint matte over an eggshell finish, but the key is in the preparation. Ensure that you clean your wall thoroughly and prime it before painting. Sanding down the gloss layer of the eggshell paint is also essential. It will allow the matte to adhere better. Finally, use a high-quality primer and paint.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 4 factors to consider when painting flat over eggshell
- How to paint over eggshell with flat paint
- 5 tips for achieving a smooth and even finish
The 4 Factors to Consider When Painting Matte Over Eggshell
1. Consider the Climate
If you are considering painting over eggshell paint when it is hot and humid outside, think twice. Humidity affects paint adhesion, which leads to quicker paint peeling and flaking.
Even high-quality paint cannot tolerate moisture in the air, so you might need to turn up the air conditioning to keep the room humidity-free. Therefore, it is better to paint during the drier and cooler months or in the winter.
2. Paint Quality
Another factor to consider when painting matte over eggshell is the quality of your paint. A high quality will ensure your wall surface has a professional look and finish. Lower-quality paint might save you a few bucks, but the surface finish won’t last as long and might have an unappealing texture.
3. Surface Preparation
For a professional finish, preparing the surface before painting is important. Prepare the wall by sanding down any bumps and filling in holes or chips. This will give you a smooth surface, essential for applying flat paint over eggshell.
4. Application Technique
Application techniques can also affect the outcome of the paint job. Use a high-quality brush or roller to apply the matte paint in thin, even coats. Avoid over-brushing or over-rolling, as this can create uneven surfaces and leave brush or roller marks.
How to Paint Over Eggshell With Matte Paint
Tools and Materials
- Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer
- Matte paint
- Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit)
- Sanding block
- Paintbrush
- Paint roller
- Tack cloth
Step 1: Prepare and Protect the Surface
The first step in painting matte over eggshell is to prepare and protect the surface. Properly preparing the wall before painting is essential for achieving an even and professional finish.
First, remove any hardware, fixtures, and wall hangings from the area. Put down tarps or drop cloths to cover the room’s floors, furniture, and other items.
Check for imperfections such as bumps, chips, or holes and fill them in with spackle. Allow the area to dry before proceeding to sand.
Step 2: Cleaning
Before painting matte over eggshell, it is important to clean the surface. This will help ensure that the paint adheres properly and that there are no particles, dust or dirt on the wall.
To do this, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dirt and debris from the surface. Then, use cloths or damp rags to wipe down the wall and remove any remaining dirt.
Step 3: Removing the Gloss Layer
Removing the gloss layer is an important step when painting matte over eggshell. Flat paints are designed to be applied in thin, even layers and need an optimal surface for adhesion. If this layer of gloss is not removed, the paint may not adhere properly or create an uneven finish.
To begin removing the gloss, use 120-grit sandpaper. Move the sandpaper in a circular motion and cover the entire wall until the shine is removed. Then, finish with 220-grit paper for a smoother surface.
Can You Paint Over Eggshell Without Sanding?
You can paint over eggshell without sanding using liquid deglosser or paint stripper. Liquid deglosser is a product that you can use to remove any glossiness from the eggshell surface and prepare it for painting.
Paint stripper works similarly, but it has a stronger effect and is better for removing multiple coats of old paint. Both products help create a smooth surface so the new paint will stick better and your walls look great.
Step 4: Priming
Priming is an essential step in painting matte over eggshell. Primer acts as a sealant to create a smooth surface and ensure the paint adheres properly. A good primer will also help prevent chipping and peeling while protecting against moisture and other environmental factors.
Primer should be applied before the paint in order to ensure optimal results. Apply the primer with a brush or roller and let it dry completely. I recommend Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer.
Step 5: Painting
Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting with your choice of matte paint. Start in one corner and use a brush or roller to apply thin coats of paint in smooth, even strokes.
Allow each coat to dry before adding more and continue until you are satisfied with the coverage. Inspect the wall for any uneven areas, and use a brush or sandpaper to smoothen them out. Let the paint fully cure for 48 hours before replacing fixtures or wall hangings.
5 Tips for Achieving a Smooth and Even Finish
1. Invest In Professional Tools
Quality tools can make a massive difference in the appearance of your walls. Investing in high-quality brushes, rollers, and painter tape will help to ensure your paint job is smooth and bumps-free.
Professional tools are designed for better coverage and can help create a smooth finish. For instance, a high-quality brush with synthetic bristles will provide a sharper edge and make your paint job look more professional.
2. Don’t Skimp on Primer
A coat of primer can set you up for a smooth process during painting as it prepares your walls to receive paint better.
It provides a base for the paint that helps it to adhere better and dry evenly. A primer also delivers a flawless finish by hiding imperfections that appear, such as small cracks, uneven surfaces, and drywall seams.
3. Apply Paint Properly
When you start painting, follow a systematic technique, starting with the brush and then rolling the paint right above the brushstroke you just made to ensure the paint blends properly. Use consistent pressure on the roller while spreading a small amount of paint in long, vertical strokes to ensure an even coat.
4. Use the Appropriate Amount of Paint
You must use the right amount of paint to help achieve a smooth finish. Too much paint can result in dripping, while too little could make your wall look patchy. Use the right amount with each coat by trying different techniques until you find one that works well for you.
5. Clean Up Any Mistakes Immediately
If you make a mistake while painting, it’s important to address it right away. If the paint is still wet, use a damp cloth to gently wipe away any mistakes and let it dry completely before making more strokes.