How to Prepare a Gyproc Wall for Painting

Look over the Gyproc walls for any imperfections such as cracks, blemishes, or nail holes. Check for gaps in the seams between sheets of Gyproc. Use a hammer to lightly tap in any protruding nails.

Use Spackle or a drywall compound to fill any cracks, holes or gaps in the wall.

Use a sander and 120-grit sandpaper to sand the leftover Spackle or compound off the wall after it is dry. Also sand along the seams between sheets of drywall.

Use a damp rag to wipe the wall down. Dust and dirt will inhibit the paint from covering the whole surface of the wall and will also effect the drying process. Allow the wall to dry before you start the priming process.

Place a drop cloth on the floor along the wall you are going to paint.

Use painter's tape to protect the ceiling, molding, and window or door frames where they abut the drywall. Tape over any power outlets or light switches that you do not want painted.

Choose a primer color that is similar to and a little lighter than the final color of the room. For example, if you are painting your walls an off-white, use a primer that is a lighter white than the paint you are using.

Use a paint roller to apply interior primer to the wall. Use a small paint brush or a mini roller to get around light switches or other cutouts.

Wait for the primer to dry and then start your painting.