Deciding whether wall smoothing (wall skimming) is a DIY project or a job for professionals largely depends on your skill level. The work cost isn’t insignificant, so sometimes a DIY project can be worth it. Here are some practical tips on how to smooth walls on your own.
The Basics of Wall Smoothing
There are a few clear rules that must be followed when it comes to wall smoothing, but practical experience is crucial for a successful outcome. It’s similar to learning how to ride a bicycle – someone might explain the basic principles, but practice is essential to master it.
The same goes for wall smoothing. Start with a less important wall, such as one that will be covered by furniture. If it goes well, great! If not, it might be better to call in professionals. Remember, wall smoothing might be needed only once in twenty years, so any cost savings won’t be worth it if the job isn’t done well.
Preparing the Surface
If you’re renovating an old apartment, the first step is to remove the old layer of smooth coating. This old layer is likely aged and has been painted over multiple times, so you’ll be surprised at how easily it peels off with a spatula. Never apply a new layer of smoothing compound over the old one, as this won’t yield lasting results.
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After removing the old layer, inspect the walls and fill any large cracks or holes. Next, apply a primer using a roller. The primer is diluted with water according to the instructions and applied with rollers and brushes. Only start smoothing once the primer has thoroughly dried, which depends on the room’s temperature and ventilation.
Preparing the Smoothing Compound
The quality of your work heavily depends on the preparation of the smoothing compound. Mix the compound with water, stirring constantly with a mixer. You can buy a mixer attachment at any paint store, which can be attached to an electric drill. This ensures a high-quality, homogeneous mixture, which is hard to achieve by hand.
The compound should be creamy and free of lumps. Apply the smoothing compound in two layers. The first layer should be thicker to cover larger imperfections. The correct moisture content and thickness are crucial, and this comes with experience. For example, the compound should not fall off the trowel even when turned upside down. After mixing, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then stir again before application.
Applying the First Layer
Apply the smoothing compound with diagonal strokes from bottom to top. Use downward strokes only at the top edge of the wall, near the ceiling. Corners are handled with a wide spatula. The application process itself requires practice.
Holding the trowel at a sharper angle to the wall creates a thicker layer, while approaching a 90-degree angle removes more compound, resulting in a thinner layer. Thin layers are used when the surface is already relatively smooth. Remember, theory is simple, but achieving quality results in practice is much harder.
Applying the Second Layer
Apply the second layer only after the first one has dried thoroughly. Inspect the surface for any imperfections, such as lines from the edge of the trowel, and correct them with a spatula or P180 sandpaper. Use a strong desk lamp to cast light at a sharp angle, revealing any unevenness.
Apply another layer of primer after corrections and let it dry. The second layer of smoothing compound should be thinner than the first for a better finish. The application techniques are the same, but the second layer is easier to apply as the mixture is softer and smoother. However, it’s more challenging because it’s the final layer, and the responsibility for a perfect finish is higher.
Sanding
Finally, sand the surface with fine sandpaper (P180 or P220). If you’re doing it manually, use circular motions, not up and down or side to side. These circular motions should have a larger diameter to ensure a perfectly smooth surface, not small circles like you would when wiping a stain or cleaning windows.
With some effort and by following these simple procedures, your wall smoothing adventure might succeed. If not, there are always plenty of ads for professional painting services.
Photo: Freepik