Preparing concrete walls for liquid wallpaper: is it necessary to putty

Is puttying the surface necessary before applying liquid wallpaper to concrete walls? This is a frequently asked question. This is an important step that will have a big impact on your walls’ durability and final look.

Small holes, uneven surfaces, and cracks are common flaws in concrete walls. These imperfections may make applying liquid wallpaper difficult and lead to an uneven finish.

In order to ensure that the liquid wallpaper adheres correctly and looks its best, puttying the walls can help create a perfectly smooth and even surface. But can you always omit this step, or are there some situations where it’s not necessary?

Step Description
Cleaning Remove dust, dirt, and any loose particles from the concrete wall to ensure a smooth application.
Priming Apply a primer to seal the concrete surface, which helps in better adhesion of the liquid wallpaper.
Puttying While not always necessary, puttying can fill in cracks and create a perfectly smooth surface for the liquid wallpaper.
Sanding Lightly sand the wall after puttying to remove any uneven spots.

Is it possible to apply liquid wallpaper to bare concrete

It is feasible in theory, but only if the concrete’s surface is flawlessly smooth. Additionally, you should be ready for the possibility that the finishing material’s color may not be uniform when applied to such a wall.

Spots might appear in some areas if light-colored wallpaper is used.

Furthermore, concrete is not waterproof, which could make the job more difficult. Consequently, it is not advised to use putty alone when applying liquid wallpaper to a concrete wall.

Is it possible to apply liquid wallpaper to old putty

Sure, given that the surface is smooth. Small cracks and scratches are acceptable. Because putty absorbs moisture, experts advise against applying finishing material directly to putty. Applying a thick layer of primer to the surface is preferable. However, plaster can be used as a nearly perfect base for the application of liquid wallpaper.

Why is it necessary to prepare concrete walls for liquid wallpaper

Uneven surfaces, glue residue, peeling paint, oily stains, screws, and other foreign objects can occur. The maximum amount of surface leveling that liquid wallpaper can achieve is 3 mm; beyond that, the flaws will continue to show over time. If finishing material is applied to an unprepared base, it may cause rust, yellow spots, and streaks to appear.

The role of concrete contact

For optimal adhesion, liquid wallpaper needs to have the strongest surface adhesion possible. If the concrete wall is weak from the start, a reinforcing primer must be applied. A preliminary surface treatment will address a number of issues:

  • cleaning from dirt and dust;
  • strengthening the base;
  • promoting economical consumption of finishing material;
  • preventing the occurrence of mold and mildew;
  • increasing the adhesion of wallpaper to the surface.

Questions about whether surface priming is required shouldn’t come up. Purchasing a primer from the same manufacturer as the finishing material is advised. It’s important to consider color when selecting a primer; a white primer works well with a dark concrete base. It will make it possible to match the wall color, which is crucial if the wallpaper is light.

Sometimes a less expensive option is used in place of primer. Acrylic paint or water are combined with PVA glue. However, there are drawbacks to this mixture: it can exfoliate under the weight of the finishing material and does not improve surface strength. It is preferable to spend money on premium primer rather than save money.

Putty in the role of the leveling layer

Putty can be used to smooth out surface flaws and small irregularities. Furthermore, putty can ease the wallpaper application process and save 10–40% of the finishing material consumption.

When selecting a putty, the room’s microclimate must be taken into account. Gypsum putties, therefore, let you level the wall precisely, but they’re not good for highly humid rooms. Cement-based putties work best in such rooms. Furthermore, the puttying’s objective needs to be considered:

  • starting leveling – used only for the first layer in the presence of serious defects;
  • finishing – applied on top of the starting layer, as a rule, it is durable and perfectly white;
  • universal – suitable for surfaces with minor imperfections.

Make sure the walls are smooth before beginning any work by using a rule level or a plumb line. Plastering rather than puttying should be used on surfaces where there is a substantial obstruction. Thus, plaster will aid in removing significant unevenness, while putty can only smooth out minor flaws.

Use of substrates

The substrate is painted on the surface prior to the finishing material application. The substrate is a concentrated primer that is applied in two to three layers. Complete surface painting is crucial, even in the absence of prophecy, as the outcome hinges on it. It is ideal for the substrate to dry quickly and have no smell. It is advised to tint a brightly colored substrate before finishing material is applied.

Do -it -yourself

The specific requirements of the master and the attributes of the premises determine how many tools are required. The primary tool set is typical:

  • spatula;
  • plumb or level-right;
  • Graters and cells;
  • brushes, rollers, spray guns or hoppers;
  • buckets for breeding materials.

It’s critical to comprehend putty’s function when readying concrete walls for liquid wallpaper. Using putty can improve the final look of the liquid wallpaper by producing a smoother, more even surface, though it’s not always required.

Eliminating the putty could save costs and time, but the finish might be less smooth. It’s frequently worth the extra work to apply a layer of putty if you want the best results possible.

The choice ultimately comes down to the intended outcome and the state of the concrete walls. The final look and longevity of the liquid wallpaper can be greatly influenced by taking the time to properly prepare the surface.

Whether putty is required is a common question when getting ready for liquid wallpaper on concrete walls. Applying putty guarantees a smoother, more even surface, improving the final look and longevity of the liquid wallpaper—a step that some people might overlook. This additional layer contributes to a more polished finish by helping to hide any small flaws in the concrete. In the end, putty is suggested in order to get the best results when using liquid wallpaper.

Video on the topic

How to put the walls of walls under the wallpaper yourself. Without errors.

Preparation of walls for wallpaper concrete – contact is resting!

Wallpaper gluing on concrete without putty walls

What type of plaster do you prefer to use in your projects?
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Elena Sokolova

Architect and interior designer with a deep interest in traditional and modern methods of wall finishing. On the site I share tips on choosing materials and techniques that help create a cozy and stylish space.

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