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A paint job done well can add life and create walls that will sparkle for years to come. But getting one’s home painted can be a time-consuming, tedious and even frustrating affair. All of us want to do this exercise as infrequently as possible, with results that last longer. Using premium materials. teamed with correct application techniques, good workmanship and maintenance is an effective way to design walls that last. It is necessary to pay attention to each layer of the wall treatment because they individually play a key role in increasing its lifespan. Here is a guide that can help enhance the quality and life of your walls.

1. Protect the walls from dampness
The first sign of water penetration through external walls is the appearance of damp patches on the interior wall surface; it will eventually cause damage to the wall paint.

Check for any kinds of cracks near the edges of the roofs, especially close to the water reservoirs, or for seepage from the walls or leaking pipes of bathrooms and kitchens. Identify and rectify the water leakage at the source itself.

If you can’t repair the cracks in the exterior of the building or control the source of dampness, as in the case of multi-storeyed buildings, then try and apply an epoxy waterproof coating on to the internal brickwork. This extra layer can considerably reduce the water absorption and permeability of the walls.

2. Ensure the wall is well-plastered
There should be no loose plaster on the wall. This can be checked by tapping the wall; a hollow sound indicates that the plaster has detached from the brick surface.

Fill up all the cracks and repair the loose plaster. Ensure that the plaster gets adequate curing time – 7-21 days. Curing is the process of keeping cement hydrated by wetting so that it sets well. There is less chance of cracks and premature stressing or disturbance of the material.

Waterproofing compounds from brands like Dr Fixit are used as additives in plaster to create a waterproof surface. You can also consider gypsum plaster – it is the modern solution to plastering of walls and is directly applied on the brick or concrete surface. The best part about gypsum plaster is that it is a quick method where the walls are ready to paint within three days. Also, it has the ability to stretch, so your wall surface is protected from cracking.

3. Apply POP for a smooth wall finish
POP (plaster of paris) is applied on the plaster. It is used to fill any uneven surface, holes and cracks in the walls. POP provides a level surface for a perfect wall finish on which the paint colours can settle. Make sure to sand the POP.

4. Use primer for good paint adhesion
Apply a coat of primer to seal the walls and to provide a good base for binding the paint so that it does not peel or flake. It will add life and also improve the appearance of the final coat of paint. The primer should be given at least 8-10 hours of drying time after application.

5. Paint with premium acrylic emulsions
Acrylic emulsions work very well for home painting. This type of paint stands out because of its enhanced qualities like good durability, elegant finish, flexibility that prevents cracks, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) and fast-drying properties.

6. Introduce corner guards
For added protection, install corner guards on the edges of walls that are prone to wear and tear or susceptible to chipping due to being accidentally hit on frequently. For example as seen in this image, wooden beading is installed on the edges of the wall; it could also be designed to complement the interiors. Corner guards are also readily available in materials like vinyl.

7. Keep the surface clean
For long-term durability and a fresh look, the routine cleaning of walls should include wiping them with a damp cloth every few months.

Fungus-affected areas should be given separate treatment. How? Make a solution of chlorine bleach and water in the ratio of 1:3 and apply it to the affected areas. Scrub the mildewed area with a soft brush and rinse it thoroughly, followed by a dry wipe.