What to do with a problem wall

Question

I have a wall that runs along my staircase, it has alot of imperfections on it. When we bought the house, they had it sponge painted, which I hated. So we painted the wall, & now I understand why it was sponged. I'm trying to figure out something that I can do to the wall besides wallpapering to hide all the imperfections. I'm looking for any ideas...

Mary Insana · Answer

Do a Venetian Plaster texture

Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com · Answer

Without seeing it I would guess it has a bulge somewhere around the floor level? This is a common issue when a house settles as the wood shrinks and the plaster drywall does not. Resulting in that bulge you see. And again I am assuming this is part of the issue? They make a wall paper that is called Sizing paper. It is normally a bit wider then wall paper, some are clothed back but most are really heavy paper that bridges all sorts of defects in the walls. You simply apply this paper and let dry. Once dry you paint it what ever color you like. Properly done, you would never know paper was applied and it hides all sorts of sins on the wall. You also can get this paper embossed with all sorts of patterns. Many people use this in dinning rooms to give them a bit of flair. Lastly you can always install wainscoting on the wall. Such as this home talker did. http://www.hometalk.com/diy/staircases/my-stairwell-with-painted-scallops-and-new-wainscoting-142181

KMS Woodworks · Answer

Skim coat with mud can help a lot. also flat paint work better at hiding imperfections. before you paint place a strong light source close to the wall. and shine it along the wall. this will showcase the condition better to let you know when you have it flat and smooth. ( if that is your goal)

the Venetian plaster trick is another option. I'm Currently working on a project were we are doing that Venetian plaster trick to mitigate some fine grain popcorn ceiling texture that contains asbestos.

Pat Ruge · Answer

You might consider wainscoting or beadboard. Many examples on youtube might help you decide the best application/design. I suggest you go about 4' high from the baseboard, painted white might add some much needed light. Add pictures above that point and all flaws should disappear to the naked eye. If on a budget, the wainscoting can be accomplished with thin MDF. Most hardware stores will cut for you. As they come in 4'x8' cutting in half will get you 'half' way there. If you have a nail gun, it certainly speeds things up. Botta bing, botta boom.

What to do with a problem wall

My stairwell with painted scallops and new wainscoting.

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What to do with a problem wall

My stairwell with painted scallops and new wainscoting.

Suggested Project Book