Which Type of Paint Works Best on Plaster?

Paint and Primer All-in-One

• A paint and primer product blocks wall blemishes and is also good for walls tinged with nicotine and water stains. Heavy stains on walls may require the use of an oil-based product instead of latex. Unless the plaster walls were recently painted, primer is recommended. All-in-one paint and primer products eliminate the need to apply a separate coat of primer. These products also eliminate the need to shop for a separate primer, which can save money. Water-based paint primers do not release foul odors and allow for easy cleanup.

Flat Paint

• Plaster walls usually reveal cracks, cavities, bumps and small holes. The non-shiny look of flat paint helps conceal the flaws on plaster walls. Unlike a lustrous paint finish, such as eggshell or satin, flat paint absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Plaster walls, painted in a quality flat paint, often bear a resemblance to drywall. Masking the irregular appearance of plaster helps modernize old walls and improves the attractiveness of your home's interior. For these reasons, paint plaster walls in a water-based flat paint.

Oil-Based Primer and Paint

• Plaster walls adhere to a metal lathe underneath the surface, and it's not uncommon for the lathe to bleed rust stains through the plaster in the event of moisture inside the wall. Oil-based primer and paint seals old plaster and prevents heavy staining from bleeding through the painted finish. Although oil-based primer and paint releases smelly fumes, the stain-blocking capabilities are far more effective than latex primer and paint. Oil-based paints are also recommended for freshly skim-coated plaster walls or newly installed plaster.

Enamel Paint

• Enamel paint products are available in oil-based and latex versions. The smooth finish of enamel paint matches the naturally smooth surface of a plaster wall. Painting plaster with a tough enamel paint creates a durable finish that can be cleaned thoroughly without marring or damaging the new paint finish. Enamel paints are available in common wall finishes such as flat, eggshell and satin. Paint plaster walls with a fine nap roller to leave minimal stipple and enhance the natural texture of plaster.