Do I Need to Wipe Down Walls Before Texturing?

Clean Walls

• Use a soft rag and water to clean walls. Soaps and other cleaners are not necessary for walls with little visible dirt. If there is a large amount of soil or grease on the walls, use an all-purpose cleaner. After using the cleaner, wash away any residue left by the cleaning product.

Dust and Cobwebs

• Don't forget that dust and cobwebs build up around the walls. The corners, ceiling lines and wood trim all need to be clean before you begin your plastering project. You will need to place painter's tape to adjoining surfaces, and it will not stick if there is dust or dirt present. Use the same products you used to clean the walls.

Vacuum

• Use a vacuum cleaner if dust is heavy along any adjoining areas touching your wall. The process is quick and not as time consuming. Attach your vacuum cleaner attachments or brushes and simply run along baseboards, ceilings and any other areas.

Sanding

• Walls should be lightly sanded before adding plaster. The sanding process will give the plaster something to grip to and decrease the risk of it peeling off later. Use medium-grit sanding blocks. You can sand in any direction. After sanding, the walls must be wiped down with a damp cloth. Sanding creates a light film of dust. If the dust is not removed, your plaster will not stick to the surface.