Technology of wall puttying for leveling under wallpaper: which mixture to choose, how to apply, how many layers and what is good about the finishing

One of the most important steps in priming your walls for wallpaper is wall puttying. This procedure guarantees a smooth surface that is prepared for a perfect finish. How your wallpapered walls turn out in the end can be greatly influenced by the putty mixture you use and how you apply it.

Putty mixtures come in a variety of forms, each appropriate for a particular set of requirements and wall conditions. Selecting the right one will help you save time and effort. Applying putty requires more than just slapping it on the wall; it also entails forming a smooth foundation that will support the wallpaper well.

Generally, a flawless finish requires multiple putty layers. Before adding the next layer, the previous one must completely dry to provide a smooth and sturdy surface. A professional-quality outcome can be achieved by applying and finishing the wallpaper correctly, which will also improve its appearance on your walls and improve its adhesion.

Aspect	Details
Mixture to Choose	For leveling walls under wallpaper, use a high-quality ready-mixed or powdered putty. Choose a mixture based on the wall condition and desired finish. For rough surfaces, a thicker putty is better, while for smoother surfaces, a finer mix works well.
Application	Apply putty using a wide putty knife or trowel. Start from the top and work downwards in even strokes. Make sure to fill any cracks or holes and spread the putty smoothly to avoid lumps.
Number of Layers	Typically, two to three layers of putty are needed. Apply the first layer to fill in major imperfections and let it dry. Sand it down, then apply additional layers if needed, sanding between each for a smooth finish.
Advantages of Finishing	Properly applied putty creates a smooth, even surface for wallpaper. It hides imperfections, reduces the need for additional wallpaper glue, and ensures better adhesion and a more professional look.

Putty under wallpaper

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You have to prepare the walls before you can begin wallpapering.

Only after the walls have been completely plastered is putty underneath the wallpaper applied.

Dry plaster, as drywall is known, needs to be puttied and ready for pasting.

Do I need to putty the walls under the wallpaper

There are various reasons this needs to be done:

1. Plastered walls have many defects that will be visible when pasting the wallpaper. They can especially stand out when pasting striped wallpaper or thin, light-colored ones.
2. After plastering, the walls may have cracks when drying. They must be repaired. Because the reasons for this defect are unknown – they expand from soil movement, if the solution is made incorrectly, they can remain unchanged.
3. After puttying, the walls become more protected from the effects of external factors.
4. Puttying a plasterboard wall is a must since experts do not recommend gluing wallpaper to “bare” plasterboard for many reasons – from the loss of the appearance of the wallpaper to unpleasant surprises when removing it.

There are multiple steps involved in surface puttying:

1. Determining the unevenness of the wall and preparing it.
2. Applying the starting mixture.
3. Finishing coating and bringing the surface to perfection.

The surface will be ready for wallpapering if the puttying is done correctly.

Which kind of ready-made putty for walls is superior?

The end product of the master’s final work and a good gauge of the materials used is a well-puttyed surface.

You can cut down on the amount of time the master needs to mix putty by using pre-made mixtures.

The following are the most popular kinds of pre-made putties:

1. Latex acrylic – applied to any surface, including drywall. Its most widespread use is in the final coating of the surface. Elastic solution allows you to make a putty layer of 1-3 mm.
2. Oil-glue and glue – has a high density, so professionals work with it. It is difficult to apply to the surface, but has a certain strength when drying.
3. Putty with PVA. It has antifungal components, so it is applicable in damp rooms.

Starter: the ideal option

On the market, there are dry puttying solutions in addition to ready-made mixtures. Prepared plastered walls are covered with starter putty.

The putties that are most often used are:

• cement mortars;
• gypsum mixtures;
• polymer putties.

Wet rooms are sealed with cement putty. It has a gray tint and is coarsely grained.

Gypsum mixtures: utilized in heated dry rooms during the winter. Quicklime is present in it.

Polymer: utilized in both wet and dry environments. It is very elastic.

Producers of adhesive primer:

1. Knauf starting putty is intended for indoor work. It has a gypsum base. Due to its environmentally friendly composition, the mixture is used in children"s rooms. The disadvantage of putty is considered to be rapid hardening. Maximum layer of applied solution 1.5cm.
2. Volma-Standard. Consists of gypsum and mineral compounds. After puttying, you can start gluing. The surface is smooth and durable. The downside is that it sets quickly.
3. Osnovit-Ekonsilk – gypsum base. Designed for dry rooms. Plastic, does not shrink. The thickness of the applied layer is 1 mm, if more, then cracks appear when drying.

Filling the wall will yield positive results if the solution is prepared correctly.

Finish: how to choose according to the best rating

The finishing mixture is applied once the initial putty has dried and the task has been finished. The most well-liked ones are:

1. Prospectors – Finish. Contains gypsum and additives. Used in rooms with high humidity. Shrink-resistant, flexible, quick-drying. Disadvantage: low surface strength after drying.
2. WEBER LR+. Applied layer 1-5 mm. the working solution does not harden within 2 days. After drying, a smooth, white surface is obtained. Putty is applied both manually and mechanically.
3. Sheetrock Superfinish – contains vinyl additives, so the putty has high ductility. A 2 mm layer dries in 5 hours. However, the master recommends carrying out all subsequent work one day after application. Has shrinkage.

How to pick a quality coarse grain

After plastering, the wall needs to be initially treated with coarse putty. The most well-liked ones are:

• Unis Blik – contains natural materials. Do not use in rooms with high humidity. A reinforcing mesh is used to putty the surface. No shrinkage. Has plasticity, after drying there are no cracks;
• Vgt acrylic universal – acrylic based. Layer thickness 1-7 mm. Has little shrinkage, good adhesion.

All varieties of cement-based mixtures are coarse-grained putties.

Which is better for deep leveling

Putties for starters. They can assist in removing all mistakes and cracks in plastering work. It is applied to surfaces up to 20 mm and has a coarse grain.

• Knauf NR putty (starting) – gypsum putty, applied in a layer from 4 mm to 15 mm. The main direction is leveling the surface before the finishing coat. After mixing, the solution hardens quickly, after 15 minutes the work stops. Does not shrink.
• Ceresit CT 29 starting – performing work on a concrete, brick, cement-sand wall. It is used to seal cracks, recesses left after plastering. The maximum applied layer is 20 mm. Unsuitable for work in a room with high humidity. After mixing, the solution can be used for 50 minutes. It takes 10-15 hours to completely dry on the surface. High strength.
• Kreisel 662 universal – contains cement and lime. Apply a thin layer to a surface covered with plaster, as well as without a coating. Has high adhesion. Use the mixture in rooms with high humidity. Maximum layer 3 mm., there is shrinkage.

Reinforcing tape must be used in addition to putty if cracks are found. It will prevent the crack from getting bigger.

Which putty to choose for drywall

The surface of the drywall is processed multiple times. Initially, reinforced tape joints are sealed with putty. Applying starting putty is the second step.

Applying finishing putty to the surface is the next step. It is not necessary to move on to the next task until one layer has fully dried.

For increased structural strength, putty layers are applied to the drywall surface beneath the wallpaper.

For a clean look, as the wallpaper will take on the color of the wall if thin wallpaper is glued to sheets without being processed.

How to putty wooden surfaces before wallpapering

Placing putty on a wooden surface differs from that on brick or concrete. The following variables affect the putty mixture selection for wood:

• high adhesion – the service life of the putty under the wallpaper depends on this;
• the solution must be elastic;
• drying speed.

Types of wood surfaces solutions:

1. Gypsum-based mixture.
2. Latex putty.
3. Mixture with the addition of acrylic.
4. Oil mixture.
5. Putty with PVA.

Which putty works best for applying putty to raw concrete?

In general, there aren’t many noticeable plane variations in a concrete wall. So instead of plastering, they start puttying right away using a starting compound.

There are multiple layers in the base coat. Additionally, the application of the second layer occurs only after the first has fully dried. For the coating, cement compositions are blended. Since they shrink, the layer shouldn’t be very thick.

The final coat ought to be thin. The gray beginning material beneath is hard to hide, but a thin layer smooths the surface and prepares it for wallpapering.

Also utilized are universal putties. However, they are applied twice in a thin layer. Being plastic, they don’t get smaller. The use of mixtures is allowed if the walls are level and the differences are between 2 and 5 mm.

How many layers should be applied to bare concrete walls

Apply one layer of starting putty to a concrete surface that is nearly flat. There is no layer thicker than 15 mm. To level the wall, beginners should use a perforated beacon profile. The mixture is fixed, and the level is changed. Only after the solution beneath the profile has completely dried can work begin.

Pay heed. Wooden slats, if present, serve as beacons. However, if the slat is too high or notched, the surface will become ribbed.

Wall puttying is necessary to achieve a smooth wallpaper finish. A perfect surface is ensured by selecting the appropriate mixture and applying it correctly. Usually, a couple of thin layers are put down to even out the base and cover any flaws. By giving your wallpaper a strong foundation, this procedure not only improves its appearance but also increases its longevity.

What technologies exist

Four techniques that masters employ are appropriate for novices:

1. Mechanical method of applying the solution.
2. Semi-mechanical – applying the mixture, and then leveling it with a spatula.
3. Beacon – used for starting puttying.

A device that sprays putty in a thin layer is appropriate for the mechanical method. Using a wide-bladed spatula, you must level the plane after applying the layer.

Semi-mechanical: The apparatus projects big drops onto the wall, which need to be dispersed uniformly throughout the wall.

Plastering can be started using Beacon. Appropriate for novices. Employing beacon profiles will expedite and simplify the task.

A comprehensive guide for novices with no prior experience on correctly applying putty to walls using their hands

Inexperienced artisans must understand the subtleties and accuracy of their work.

Steps involved in getting the solution ready and applying the substance to the surface are as follows:

• to prepare the solution, you must carefully read the instructions and know exactly how much water is needed for mixing;
• the starting solution is applied to the surface horizontally and vertically. To avoid bumps, do not apply the solution from the floor itself. It catches debris. Corner – here you need to go with a spatula perpendicular to the corner, horizontally to the floor. This way there will be no "washboard";
• for productive work, the solution is prepared in small portions. When used, it will not have time to harden;
• the finishing layer is applied to the primed surface in a 2 mm layer;
• when puttying, the tool must be held at an angle of 30 degrees;
• after applying the solution to the walls, putty the corner with an angle spatula.

Even for someone who is doing this for the first time, leveling the surface for wallpaper won’t be difficult if they follow all the instructions.

Surface preparation

You must prepare the surface in order for it to be absolutely smooth and level. There are multiple steps in this process:

1. Cleaning the walls from dust, excess pebbles, frozen drops of plaster. Mechanical means are used for cleaning – grinders, brushes, spatulas.
2. Priming the surface. This must be done for degreasing, and almost all primers contain antiseptic agents that protect the surface from mold.

Process the wall first, then move on to the next task.

Selecting the required tool

In order to apply putty correctly with your hands, you’ll need the following tool:

• construction mixer;
• set of spatulas – wide spatula, small, angled;
• brush, roller for priming;
• the rule for creating a flat wall is 2 meters;
• level to control the evenness of the wall;
• sandpaper for rubbing the surface;
• skinner;
• container for mixture.

How a beginner should apply beginning putty to uneven surfaces

It is advised for beginners to use metal beacon profiles when applying the starting mixture to a clean, dry wall. They are positioned along the wall so that there is a maximum of 1.5 meters between profiles.

Putty is applied to holes by lighthouses. Level determines evenness. Any surplus solution that emerges is eliminated. It is necessary for the mixture to be totally dry before proceeding.

Putty is applied to the wall in blots and stretched across the surface, staying within the installed beacons. A rule determines how even the surface is. The solution is drawn up and the excess is taken out of the tool with its assistance. Apply a second layer of the solution if required.

How often is the mixture applied before it solidifies?

A 20 mm layer of the starting mixture is applied.

Apply a second layer if necessary to level the wall with a thick layer.

However, this is an uncommon occurrence because the average unevenness following plastering is up to 1 cm.

In cases where there is two centimeters of unevenness, bare walls are puttied. Plaster is applied once, possibly with some overlap.

How and what is the best way to check the readiness of the surface for subsequent stages of work

The wall must be tied down, and then the work needs to be left for a bit. Everything in this case is based on the composition. Because cement mortars shrink, the treated wall needs to be tightened with a rule after 20 minutes. When you run your palm over the surface after an hour, the solution should feel "milky," indicating that it has already solidified. Using a spatula, carefully remove this milk. Give it a wash. After roughly a day, the cement mortar hardens. Use the palm of your hand to check that the mortar does not stick.

Polymer mixtures and gypsum don’t shrink. They should be kept off the ground for at least ten hours after application. You then need to wipe the surface with a dry palm. It ought to be smooth and dry. If any sticking or dampness is detected, leave the surface alone for a bit.

Which primer should I use under finishing putty if I think I need one?

Every primer has a different composition and function. For the following reasons, primer mixtures ought to be applied before puttying is complete:

• primer increases the adhesion of the applied materials. That is, the finishing coating will lay better on the primed surface;
• if after the starting mixture has dried, a "web" of microcracks appears on the surface, then the primer seals them, preventing moisture from penetrating there;
• the primer creates a thin film on the surface, protection against moisture absorption and components of the finishing layer in the starting. Thanks to this, the finishing solution is applied evenly. Material consumption is reduced.

The table shows whether the primer and putty are compatible:

How to apply the finishing finish yourself and putty correctly

Applying the material from dry to wet is the principle that you must adhere to in order to apply it to the surface correctly. Step back 30 to 40 centimeters from the ceiling to apply the solution layer. The putty is applied vertically, starting from the ceiling.

Applying the putty under a side light is preferable. Use a spotlight or a diode lamp for this. In the lamplight, an uneven spatula stroke and excessive putty thickness result in a ribbed mark on the surface.

It is not acceptable to move the spatula vertically close to corners. When the tool makes contact with the nearby wall, a "washboard" shows up. The tool is moved to the wall on the other side from the corner.

After putty is finished, grouting is next.

The walls are rubbed and sanded once they have dried.

In order to work, you need:

• painting block;
• respirator;
• diode lamp;
• diamond mesh or sandpaper.

Sanding walls can be done in two ways:

1. Grouting the walls with a diamond mesh or sandpaper (it gets clogged quickly) under the wallpaper.
2. Grouting under the lamp with fine-grained sandpaper.

The first approach uses a block with a mesh fraction of 300–400. Without a lamp, there are imperfections on the wall that are visible. You have to wear a mask and move around the whole wall in a circular motion. Periodically clear the floor of dust by using a vacuum cleaner.

When is it okay to begin gluing?

After sanding the surface, dust the walls with a brush or a dry rag. A vacuum cleaner is used for this, set to the lowest speed. The wall needs to be primed after being cleaned. It will leave a thin film behind after drying, preventing glue from seeping into the surface.

Once the primer has dried completely, you can begin applying the wallpaper.

Now that you’ve learned every nuance of putty selection, the surface will be flawlessly even and long-lasting. It is crucial to pay attention to the subtle details in the work, as they contribute significantly to the creation of a sturdy wall beneath the wallpaper.

Putty and wallpaper-covered walls look good and have a long warranty.

Selecting the appropriate putty blend is essential to attaining a polished, seamless wallpaper application. Make sure the product you choose fits the unique requirements of your walls and the kind of wallpaper you want to apply, whether it is ready-mixed or powdered.

The mixture is not as important as the application. To prevent uneven or cracked surfaces, apply the putty in thin, even layers. Sanding in between coats will help you get a perfect, seamless finish that will improve the way your wallpaper looks.

The state of your walls will determine how many layers you need. Usually, it takes two to three layers to completely hide flaws and produce a smooth surface. Applying the next layer after a layer has completely dried is advised.

Using putty correctly prolongs the life of your wallpaper while also enhancing its appearance. A properly prepped surface guarantees improved adhesion and lowers the possibility of long-term problems like peeling or bubbling. To get the best results, take the time and make the effort to complete this step correctly.

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