» Using Gypsum Board for Walls and Ceilings Section VI

Using Gypsum Board for Walls and Ceilings Section VI

Section VI – Decorating

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VI. DECORATING

Re-inspect gypsum board finishes prior to decorating, particularly at joints and fasteners. Repair and sand any imperfections as necessary. Make certain joint compound is thoroughly dry before applying any decorating products.

Gypsum board surfaces are suitable for decorating with paint, paper, textures, fabric, or vinyl wall coverings. Always use a high quality latex primer/sealer, preferably one recommended by the manufacturer of the finish
product, prior to decoration. Using a good quality primer helps minimize color and surface variations and provides a more uniform profile for any surface covering. A good quality sealer allows wall coverings to be removed more easily without marring the face paper of the gypsum board. Glue-size, shellac and varnish are not suitable as sealers or primers on gypsum board surfaces because their use may result in damage to the gypsum board face paper during removal of a wall covering. Paints may be spray, brush, or roller applied. The final coat can be textured if desired.

NOTE: Follow the sprayer and paint product manufacturers’ recommendations for proper spray tip, application, or other instructions before applying paint with an airless sprayer. Back-rolling spray-applied
materials may be necessary for best results.

For Glossy Paints

Remove and repair all surface irregularities and sand or sponge the joint treatment surfaces as necessary. Apply a thin skim coat of joint compound or a material manufactured especially for this purpose to the entire surface of the board. This will minimize any suction, porosity, or other variations between the joint compound and the face paper surfaces. Take care to eliminate laps or tool marks during the skim coating operation. Lightly sand or sponge wall or ceiling surfaces wherever necessary to ensure a smooth and even surface. Apply a high quality latex primer/sealer compatible with the finish product prior to decoration. For additional information, see GA-214, Recommended Levels of Gypsum Board Finish.

For Severe Lighting Conditions

Apply a skim coat joint compound to wall or ceiling surfaces that will be subjected to severe natural or artificial side-lighting. Apply a thin skim coat of joint compound or a material manufactured especially for this purpose to the entire surface of the board. Apply a high quality latex primer/sealer compatible with the finish product prior to decoration. For additional information, see GA-214, Recommended Levels of Gypsum Board Finish.