How to Properly Seal Your Drywall

by | Aug 30, 2021 | Drywall Services

If you’re a homeowner, there is a huge possibility that your walls are made of drywall. Almost every office and house are built with gypsum board, sheetrock, or drywall. Of course, there is a reason for this. 

Drywall is perhaps one of the most affordable, yet durable materials in the world. That is why most building contractors prefer them over other materials. Aside from that, drywall is also easy to install.   Check moneyscout.

Even though drywall is durable, you still have to seal it regularly to promote longevity and protect your drywall. You can hire a professional Washington DC drywall repair company for this job. However, you can also do the job yourself if you’re a hands-on person.  

So, if you choose to do it yourself, here are some tips on how to properly seal the drywall: 

Preparing Your Drywall for Sealing 

First of all, you have to prepare the tools you will need for the job. These tools include: 

  • Protective gear 
  • Large sponge 
  • Tarp 
  • Paint tray 
  • Painter’s tape 
  • 3-inch hand brush 
  • 3/8-inch rolling brush 
  • Latex primer paint for drywall 

After you get all the tools, the next thing you have to do is to prepare the drywall. First, use clean water to dampen your sponge. Then, wipe down the drywall. Get rid of any residual dust or sand from the finishing and installation. 

Next, find any wall holes or burrs. If you do find them, make sure you sand and refill them. Then, repeat the cleaning process.  

Line all your ceiling areas, woodwork, and molding with your painter’s tape to protect them. Make sure you include wall fixtures and electrical outlets as well.  

Cover the surrounding area with a tarp. This includes windows, flooring, carpeting, cabinets, fireplace, appliances, furniture, and more. You can use cloth or plastic as well if you don’t have a tarp. 

Sealing the Drywall 

Next, prepare your latest primer paint. Then, start by painting the corners and edges of your surface area. Next, paint around every outlet and wall fixture.  

Use your rolling brush to paint the remaining areas of the wall. Start with diagonal and vertical strokes. Make sure you produce an “M” or “W” pattern. Next, work your way from top to bottom to fill out the spaces.  

While one coat is typically enough, professionals recommend that you apply two full coats of primer paint. This will help you achieve the best results for your project.  

Use High-Quality Primer Paint 

Due to the various layers of drywall, you need to seal them properly. This includes joint compound, seams, and tape. The reason for this is that they’ve got various levels of porosity.  

However, you can only seal drywall properly if you use high-quality primer paint. You need to purchase one that is specifically made for drywall. Typically, these paints come in flat-like colors, such as white.  

You’ll have to use a darker primer if you’re painting a dark color. You can always ask a professional to help you choose the right primer paint for your project. Typically, you can purchase a primer at your local home improvement shop.