How to Texture Over Oil-Based Paint on Drywall

Properties of Oil-Based Paint

• Oil-based paint uses different binding agents than latex paint, which makes it have a harder surface when it dries. The paint is more durable than latex paint and provides some protection for the wall. However, it is also shinier and slicker than latex paint, and it is difficult to paint over oil-based paint or to add texturing compounds to it. Paint and texturing agents will not easily adhere to oil-based paint, so some preparation is required if you plan to remodel a room that was painted with oil-based paint.

Preparing the Wall

• Texturing compound will not stick to a wall painted with oil-based paint. You may strip the wall by using a chemical degreaser and paint-prep product such as trisodium phosphate, or you can simply sand the wall. Use an orbital sander and coarse sandpaper to make quick work of the job. This will not only strip some of the shine from the wall, but also will help to rough it up and create a better surface for bonding. Apply a quality primer designed to cover oil-based paint and let it dry completely. Your wall should then be ready to accept the texturing compound.

Applying the Texturing

• Depending on the look you are trying to create, you can apply your drywall compound, or mud, with a paint roller, spray gun or trowel. The most common method, known as knockdown texturing, involves using the trowel to layer on the compound. You vary the pressure used to apply the compound, resulting in different layers of thickness. When the compound begins to dry and becomes tacky to the touch, you go back over it with the trowel to smooth out any peaks or rough patches. Whatever method you choose, you will need to thin out the drywall compound with water to make it easier to spread or to spray through the paint gun. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.

Protecting the Wall

• Once your drywall compound dries, it can become brittle and flaky -- especially on the raised up areas or peaks. You can protect it by applying several coats of latex paint. Not only will this seal in the drywall compound to prevent flaking, but also it will make it easier to clean the wall later. Latex paint will also provide a more flexible base if you decide to repaint the wall later or to change your wall treatment.