Painting Surface
Drywall
Painting drywall? Start here to compare common paint options and see what preparation and primer they need.
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Drywall paint compatibility
New drywall and repaired areas are porous and usually need primer. Existing painted drywall should be clean, sound, and properly prepared before recoating.
| Paint | Compatibility | Preparation | Primer | Finish | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic paint | Good for decorative use with preparation | Use a clean, dry surface; repair and smooth damaged areas before painting. | Seal bare plasterboard first; gesso is useful for artist acrylics. | Optional for ordinary decorative use; protect areas exposed to wear. | — |
| Enamel paint | Good with an interior enamel approved for walls or trim | Patch defects, sand smooth, and remove dust before coating. | Prime new, porous, repaired, or problem areas as required. | Product-specific | — |