How many coats of mist do I need to add to new plaster?

Question: I have just had my walls plastered. How many coats of mist paint do I need to add?

Answer(s):

Sean Saunders, Sean Saunders Painting & Decorating, Sherborne

One coat is enough, I usually mix it with 30%-50% water and use a basic contract Matt emulsion. When spraying a mist coat, you can mix it one part water to one part paint.

Wayne De Wet, Wayne De Wet, Norfolk

The short answer is 1 mist coat. However, the consumer needs to also consider what brand of paint they are using & from where they purchase! As professionals, we use Trade quality paint which has more coverage than retail & own brand paint purchased in a Diy store.

Also, think of the location of the area being painted. If it’s a high traffic area, it would need a more durable paint that can withstand a good scrub. If it’s say a bedroom then a simple Vinyl Matt is fine. If the area has a lot of steam & moisture like a bathroom ceiling then a steam proof and mould resistant paint should be used. Also, think of the sheen level – for example, a Matt finish won’t show as much irregular plastering whereas a high sheen will highlight every defect. Strong colours will require additional coats.

Lastly, don’t scrimp on buying cheap rollers and brushes. Buy good quality and this will in turn will help achieve a good finish. And, always wet new brushes & rollers and spin & shake out excess water as this allows faster paint pick up and release.

Tony Broughton, Affordable Painter, Bournemouth

Just one mist coat. I water about 20 per cent and I would double roll over the same area to try and get a solid base. I use contract Matt for first coat available from many DIY stores and any suitable vinyl Matt or mid-sheen for high-traffic areas.