The second most common question Paintway are asked, is “How can I paint VJ boards?”
Homes in Toowoomba with V Jay Walls are very common – they are mostly seen in older style Queensland homes – most people underestimate the work it takes to paint and prepare these types of walls. FEAR NOT! It can be done with some patience and preparation, and hard yakka!
It is important to ensure that your home is not painted with lead paint. If your home was built prior to 1970, and you know it hasn’t been painted in the last 20 years, speak to Paintway Toowoomba before you begin painting. In all cases, if your home hasn’t been painted since the 1980’s we would still advise having it checked. Lead was used in a smaller percentage in paints until the 80’s.
Preparation is KEY!
The very first job when painting VJ boards is to thoroughly prep the area. Start by giving your walls a light sand. The sand will ‘rough up’ the face of the wall which will give the paint a better surface to stick to. Once the sanding is completed, give your walls a wash down with sugar soap which is available in hardware shops and supermarkets.
Essential to ensure a seamless finish, you need to fill the gaps. You need to fill the gaps of the VJ to ensure even paint coverage. A word on fillers, use a flexible filler as the VJ will expand and contract with the weather. Dry weather and the board will contract, wet weather and it will expand. Be sure to wipe off any excess filler with a damp cloth, and take care of your fingers when applying.
Choosing the right brush is also key to cutting down the time it will take, First you will need to purchase a long nap roller like the 3/4″ nap above, a short nap roller like the 3/8″ or 1/4″ above and a good quality brush. If you want to paint the walls quickly and effectively this is the best brush combination to do the job. Also often use a mini roller. If you have a steady hand, a regular brush will be fine for cutting in, but if not purchase a brush designed for cutting in.
First paint the wall with the long nap roller, the longer nap will allow the paint to get into the grooves of the VJ, then straight after, follow with the short nap roller to smooth out the texture of the paint. Continue like this around the room until you have completed your first coat, allow to dry and follow the same method for as many coats as you need to ensure even coverage.
