How to skim coat indoor brick wall before painting?

Question

Hi,

I'm looking to smooth out a small section of an exposed indoor brick wall before painting it (please see the attached image).

The bricks have fairly deep mortar joints and rough surfaces, so I want to get the wall completely flat and ready for paint.

Could you please recommend the best materials and products (available at Bunnings) to fill the deep grout lines and skim coat the surface? Also, do I need to apply a bonding agent or primer over the bricks first to help the rendering/joint compound stick?

Thanks in advance for your help!

EricL · Answer

Hello @fsj117

Thank you for sharing your question about rendering your brick wall. I suggest looking at using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dunlop-20kg-multipurpose-acrylic-render_p0760242

on your brick wall. Because it is an acrylic render you should be able to achieve a reasonably flat finish. However, if you are after a fine finish, you can apply the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dunlop-20kg-fine-coat-render_p0760244

once the render has properly cured.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Render Over Brick

My best advice is to read the preparation steps behind the packaging. A primer is not always needed as the wall can simply be made damp to prevent over absorption of the moisture in the render.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric