Understanding Wall Preparation for Wallpaper - Wall Putty

Let’s face it — quality and finish are the hallmarks of a well-executed interior or architecture project.

And ever since wall putty has been introduced in the market, it has become a go-to wall treatment for both interior and exterior applications because of its superior finish.

But there are so many questions floating around about this element that we decided to tackle the most-asked of the lot.

Time to get clarity!

What types of wall putty are available in the market?

There are two types of wall putty available.

1. White cement wall putty

• Made up of white cement, added polymers and minerals.
• Used for both interior and exterior application.
• Has superior binding traits because it is white cement-based.

2. Acrylic wall putty

• An acrylic and water-based solution.
• Suitable only for interiors.
• Binding quality is inferior to white cement alternative.

Putty or primer first?
Before you apply either primer or putty, you need to ensure that all traces of grease, stains, dust, old wallpaper, oil paints, etc. are scraped off the wall.

If the wall is uneven or has major cracks and dents, it needs to be filled in with putty and evened out. Brands like Birla White also offer a special solution called Wall Levelling Putty MF (Matt Finish) to cover major undulations.

It is a general practice by contractors to apply a coat of primer before the wall putty for better adherence. However, some brands suggest wetting the wall before application.

Brands like Birla White Wall Care Putty specify that primer is not required for their product. That’s why it’s best to check manufacturer’s guidelines before application. You can also opt to hire their in-house trained skilled persons for the job.

Are there any disadvantages of wall putty?
While wall putty ensures the perfect finish to walls, it has certain disadvantages that make it challenging to work with. These are the disadvantages of wall putty:

• Once hardened, wall putty paste cannot be used.
• It requires skilled or trained labour to get the desired finish.
• Wall putty cannot be mixed by hand or simple tools. A mechanical stirrer is a must.

And are there any advantages of wall putty?
Most of the advantages of wall putty come from the fact that it is a cement-based material. Manufacturers have come up with specialized solutions with added polymers that improve wall putty’s overall traits.

Some key advantages of wall putty are:

1. It improves the tensile strength of the wall.
2. Wall putty increases the lifespan of the wall paint.
3. It is resistant to moisture.
4. Wall putty provides a smoother finish.
5. Wall putty doesn’t flake or get easily damaged.

How is wall putty prepared for application?
The right kind of wall putty is chosen, depending on whether it needs to be used for interior or exterior application.

To make a smooth paste, water is gradually added to the wall putty mix (never the other way around) and blended with a mechanical stirrer.

Since the paste dries up quickly, use it within 2-3 hours. Always prepare small batches based on application.

The prepared putty paste can be covered with a moist cloth to prevent it from drying.

What is the difference between wall putty and POP?
POP (Plaster of Paris) is a fine, gypsum based powder while wall putty is a white cement based solution with added minerals and polymers.

While wall putty is used just before painting, POP is used to make ornamental elements and designs on the wall.