Don’t hide damage behind a coat of paint
You can paint over plaster as long as it is in good condition.
Prep plaster walls before painting by removing old paint, repairing damage, sanding, and priming.
Identify and address the root cause of damaged plaster before you repair and paint it.
An oil-based primer is ideal to prepare plaster walls for a new coat of paint.
Plaster walls are nothing new in the design world, as they’ve been used in one form or another for centuries. This material is highly durable, provides fantastic insulation, and has a unique texture you simply can’t replicate with drywall. You can paint over plaster walls, but you must first repair surface damage and ensure no bigger issues are lurking behind those layered walls.
You can paint over plaster as long as it’s in good condition. When planning your painting project, inspect your walls for cracks, chips, or bubbles. If you see any damage, you must pause your color ambitions and shift gears to repairing the plaster first or call a local painting pro to step in. If your walls are smooth and unblemished, go right ahead and roll that paint on.
No, you should not paint over damaged plaster—this just covers up the problem and can lead to structural integrity over time. While it’s tempting to cover up cracked plaster to look more appealing, you must determine what’s causing the damage. If you repair the surface damage without addressing the root cause, you could have a bigger mess on your hands. For example, a leak or broken pipe may be behind the wall.
"Painting over a surface that has grease or dust build up can cause the paint to apply unevenly, leading to a bubbly or rough texture with clear visible imperfections."
— Gregory Pittman, Director of Commercial Painting Services at Five Star Painting
Before you start any painting project with plaster, you should test for lead paint, as plaster is often used in older homes. Wear eye protection and a respirator to be on the safe side.
Once you're sure you’re not working with lead paint, remove as much old paint as possible with one of the following methods.
Paint scrapers and sandpaper: Using a paint scraper or putty knife is a great method for removing chipping, peeling, or loose plaster. Use sandpaper to smooth the surface after scraping.
Chemical strippers: Applying a chemical stripper is an easier way of removing old paint, but only if the plaster is still relatively intact.
Paint always adheres best to clean surfaces that are free from dust and grease. Because plaster is prone to cracking, you’ll want to use a light touch. Start by going over the surface with a microfiber duster. If you see any areas with residual grime, clean them with a mixture of water and dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge.
It’s essential not to skip this step since any holes or crevices can spread with plaster and could lead to more damage later on. Patch small holes or cracks with paintable caulk, which needs to be molded and sanded. However, if it’s a larger hole, you may need to repair it with mesh tape and compound, so consult a local plaster expert. After you’re satisfied with patching, gently sand down the entire wall. Then go over the surface with a microfiber duster to remove any residual dust.
Plaster walls prefer an oil-based primer, which can block water stains from showing through. It will also seal out any moisture, which is key when dealing with plaster. Allow the primer to dry completely before painting. This may take a few hours, depending on manufacturer instructions.
Plaster walls can take on any paint sheen you like. Whether you prefer a high-gloss enamel or matte finish, it truly is up to your design preferences. You can also use any color on plaster. Plaster walls love to drink up the paint, so don’t be surprised if it takes two or three coats to achieve the finish you’re looking for.
Note: Avoid all-in-one primer and paints. They don’t help the paint stick to the wall any better or provide stain-blocking properties.
Dealing with plaster walls may be more time-consuming than drywall, and it takes multiple coats of paint even after repairing any cracks and priming. While it’s a job many homeowners feel they can DIY, you may prefer letting the professionals handle this one due to the tedious work involved.
If you do hire a professional, the average cost of plaster repair is $1,500 for an 80-square-foot room, but this doesn’t include painting. The average cost to paint a room is $1,100, while DIY costs are around $150 in materials.
Plaster is a hardy surface, but you can damage it if you bump into it hard enough. Water is another hazard, including excess moisture, dampness, or extreme humidity. Plaster can also easily be damaged simply with age. Keeping humidity in check and taking extra precautions when moving around plaster walls with furniture can help minimize damage.
It’s ok to plaster over a minor crack or small hole as long as you’ve repaired it with either caulk or compound. However, if you’re unsure of the cause of the broken plaster, you need to ensure it’s not a sign of a larger problem, such as a leak or foundation issue. Plastering over it will only cause further issues if this is the case.
With the notable exception of all-in-one primer and paint, which you should avoid, most types of paint will stick to plaster. You can choose any color and finish you like. For the most successful paint job, use a high-quality primer and allow it to fully cure before you begin painting. An oil-based primer is a good option; some paint brands also sell primers specifically made for plaster walls.
