How to Paint a Light Color Over a Dark Wall

At some point you may have to paint a light color over a dark wall.

Dark walls truly transform a room's decor, but if you've tired of that royal blue or deep red room, are moving out of a rental, or if you inherited unwanted dark walls in your new home, your paint job will be a bit more time-consuming than most. You must neutralize the dark color before applying the new paint, which can take several days, so plan accordingly.

Things You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Sponge
• Sandpaper and sanding block
• Microfiber cloth
• Light-colored primer
• Paint roller and tray
• Light-colored paint

Instructions

1. Prepare the wall by sponging it clean with mild soap and water. Allow the wall to dry completely.

2. Sand the surface of the wall, especially if it's glossy, to help the primer adhere to the wall. Use a sanding block wrapped with sandpaper and rub the wall with quick, even strokes. Wipe away any dust with a microfiber cloth.

3. Apply a coat of primer with a paint roller, using long, overlapping strokes. The exact shade of primer you use will be dependent on the color of the new paint, but it should be very light. Allow the first coat to dry for a couple of hours, or as directed, before applying a second coat.

4. Allow the two coats of primer to dry overnight. If the dark color still shows through the next day, apply a third coat and allow it to dry completely. Repeat until the primer color is as opaque and even as possible, then dry for at least 24 hours.

5. Apply at least two coats of your light-colored paint over the primed wall, until the color is perfectly even.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for primers designed for covering dark paint to keep the number of coats to a minimum.

• Ventilate the room by opening all windows and doors, and take frequent fresh air breaks while painting. If the room can't be ventilated, wear a respirator.

References

• Renter's Insurance: Painting Over Dark Paint
• Apartment Therapy: Priming and Painting the Apartment