How to patch and paint walls?

SarahK1996

Hey brains trust!

I am helping my partner fix a few things around his home. Wanting recommendations on the best way to patch and paint this ensuite wall and door frame? It had a towel rack attached and hardware for the sliding door which I just removed, but want to make sure I patch and paint as efficiently as possible and do it right as it looks like it was put up terribly to start with! The wall anchors won’t come out, so what’s the best way to flatten them before I patch? Do I just sand them?

I have a Stanley knife, spakfilla, sandpaper and the correct paint ready to go! Let me know your thoughts!

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MitchellMc

Hi @SarahK1996,

When it comes to patching the wall, you’ll want to tackle those wall anchors first, as removing them will make your job smoother and help achieve a more professional finish.

For the plastic wall anchors, drilling them out is the most efficient method. Start with a drill bit slightly smaller than the anchor to avoid damaging the surrounding wall. Once you’ve drilled into them, you can usually use needle-nose pliers to grip and pull out any leftover pieces. If any parts of the anchor are still stuck, don’t worry—you can cut them flush with the wall using your Stanley knife. Then, once the anchors are either fully removed or cut back, sand the surface smooth to remove any bumps or debris before patching.

The metal anchors are typically more challenging. Using a large Phillips head screwdriver, try to unscrew the metal anchors. If they’re too tight (they might be, as they look like they've been glued in), grab a pair of multi-grip pliers, clamp them onto the screwdriver handle, and use the extra leverage to twist the anchor out. Make sure to press the screwdriver firmly into the anchor while turning so it doesn’t slip.

For the actual patching, apply your spakfilla generously over the holes, smoothing it out with a spatula or putty knife. Allow it to dry thoroughly, and then sand it back again to create a perfectly flat surface, blending it into the surrounding wall.

When it comes to painting, make sure the area is clean and dust-free before applying any undercoat. Use a small brush or roller for better control over the patched area. Feather the edges of the undercoat so it blends seamlessly with the rest of the wall, and once dry, apply your wall paint. Even when using the correct paint you can still have inconsistencies, so it might be best to paint the whole wall.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

SarahK1996

Thankyou so much for all of that Mitch! Super helpful, thank you for providing so much description - it made it a whole lot easier to do with the steps you provided! I think it’s looking pretty good now if I don’t say so myself! 🙂

I just have to paint now but I think I will probably just paint the whole wall it needs a refresh anyway and will be much easier I think!

I know that the paint colour when he bought the house was Dulux Whisper White (water based) so what undercoat would I have to use with this? Or could I just sand it a little and go straight over the top budget wise?

I know the woodwork is the Dulux Whisper White low sheen, so I assume the walls would be matte? We don’t have any more information on the paint from when he bought the house!

Thankyou so much! You’re a legend!

EricL

Hello @SarahK1996

I understand your desire to keep your painting expenses low, but in this instance, I recommend using a primer just to be on the safe side. Before you purchase a primer, I recommend testing the wall paint with a clean rag and methylated spirits. Put some spirits on the corner of the rag and rub the wall, if the paint comes off it is a water-based paint, but if the wall only becomes clean and no paint comes off it is oil-based. Once you've confirmed the type of paint that's been used on your wall you can then get a primer with the same base.

To protect your floor and the surrounding cabinets in the area, I suggest covering them with plastic drop sheets held in place with masking tape.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working your project.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

SarahK1996

Hi Eric!

Thanks so much for all of your help! Turns out it was oil based. I think it’s turned out brand new! Even hung two hooks up instead for our towels for extra room! You couldn’t even tell now what a mess it was before!

Thanks again!

Jason

Brilliant result @SarahK1996. Well done!

Feel free to post anytime you need a hand.

Jason

SarahK1996

Thanks Jason! You guys are legends!

I also wondered, we have hair line cracks in some of the walls too (which builders say is just due to movement etc.) what would be best way to fill/hide these before painting over? Spakfilla as well?

Thanks so much!

JacobZ

Hi @SarahK1996,

Spakfilla will work fine with hairline cracks.

Make sure to give it a good mix before applying and once dry sand with a 220 Grit Sanding Sponge before painting to ensure you get a nice smooth surface.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Jacob

SarahK1996

Amazing! Thanks so much Jacob!

Appreciate it!

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