How to Cover Blemished Walls

Small blemishes can be covered up easily.

Over time, the walls in your home may suffer normal wear and tear that leaves behind a few blemishes. These blemishes could be a result of scratches from nearby furniture, pictures hung and removed, or paint that is peeling. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can cover up the blemishes so that your wall has a pleasing appearance once again.

Things You'll Need

• Furniture
• Cork board/white board
• Paint scraper
• Primer
• Paint
• Joint compound

Instructions

1. Cover the blemish up by placing a piece of furniture in front of it. If the blemish is higher up, consider building some shelves. Set a few books or knick-knacks on the shelves to hide the blemish.

2. Hang a cork board or white board in front of the blemish. Family members can use the board to keep track of activities and upcoming events, while the board keeps the blemish hidden.

3. Scrape away peeling paint with a paint scraper if you don't want to hide the blemish with objects. Prime and repaint the area so that it matches the rest of the wall.

4. Fill the blemish with a joint compound if the blemish is a crack or crevice in the wall. Prime and paint the area so that it matches the rest of the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes simply cleaning the wall with some warm water and a drip of dish soap is all it takes to remove minor blemishes.

• Sand blemishes away from walls that are made of wood. Then repaint.

References

• Lennings Crossings Home Owners Association: Painting Dry Wall Scratches, Holes and Blemishes
• Happy Living Magazine: Basement Wall Ideas
• Sound Home Resource Center: Restoring and Painting Plaster and Lath Walls

Resources

• Painting Techniques and Decorating Ideas: From Bathroom Paint Colors to Selecting a Sheen