Preparing the support for textured decorations

Before even discussing effects and samples, for a textured decoration, it's important to understand the type of substrate you'll be working on. In this article, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of preparing a wall for thick finishes, spatula finishes, stuccos, or decorative resins.

Let's start with the initial analysis: check the wall for active cracks, swelling, old, flaking paint, or areas of rising damp. These are signs that an expert eye can immediately recognize, and in some cases, it's best to address more structural issues before considering decorating. It's not just an aesthetic issue: a textured finish on an unstable substrate risks cracking, flaking, or "printing" defects that become increasingly visible over time.

If necessary, remove any old, unsuitable paint and correct any more obvious irregularities. This involves smoothing, sanding, localized filling, and the use of fiber mesh where small cracks need to be filled. Each step has a specific purpose: to distribute stress, even out absorption, and create a surface that allows the textured decoration to adhere evenly.

An important chapter is dedicated to primers and undercoats: often overlooked products, but they make the difference between a decoration that sticks well and one that smudges, tears, or leaves streaks. There's no single, universal primer, and the choice varies based on both the material being applied and the type of substrate (new plaster, gypsum, drywall, previously painted wall, etc.).

Finally, respecting drying times is crucial! Many problems arise from haste: steps overlapping too quickly, poor ventilation, and unsuitable temperatures.