Prime and Paint Wainscoting

What happens in this clip

To prepare for painting, tape off any areas you don't want to get paint on, such as the top edge of the cap, adjacent walls, or flooring. Apply one even coat of a high-quality primer formulated for wood and trim to all newly installed wainscoting surfaces. This ensures good paint adhesion and a uniform finish. Once the primer is dry according to its instructions, apply two thin, even coats of your chosen paint color. A semi-gloss or satin finish in white is a popular choice for wainscoting, as seen in the video, due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Allow adequate drying time between coats.

Goal: Apply a durable and attractive finish to the wainscoting.

What's used

Tools

• Drop Cloths
• Old sheets
• Paint (Semi-Gloss or Satin) Sherwin-Williams
• Behr
• Paint Roller (Small/Trim) Purdy
• Paintbrush (Angled) Purdy
• Painter's Tape FrogTape
• Primer (Wood/Trim) Kilz

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of installing wainscoting in a powder room, enhancing its aesthetic appeal with a classic, sophisticated look. The instructions cover everything from initial planning and measurement to wall preparation, trim installation (including baseboards, top rails, vertical stiles, and optional mid-rails), and the final touches of caulking, filling, priming, and painting.

Step 6 of 6: Prime and Paint

Apply a coat of high-quality primer to all the new wood surfaces, including the top board, battens, and baseboard. Primer ensures even paint coverage and helps the topcoat adhere properly. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, lightly sand any rough spots with fine-grit sandpaper and wipe clean. Apply your chosen paint color in two or more thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. For a smooth finish, use a high-quality paintbrush and roller.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Paint Paneling (Primer)
• Prime and Paint Shiplap