Painting plasterboard can add visual interest to any room of your home. Sometimes called drywall, plasterboard is used in most new construction for finishing walls. When new, plasterboard is most often plain white in color. The installation process, which includes nails and taping, requires additional help to appear finished. Painting plasterboard can be a do-it-yourself project if you have the time and patience necessary for the work involved. Be prepared to be out of the room for at least 48 hours.
Step One
Clean the walls, using a dry white cloth. Remove as much dust, dirt and other substances as possible.
Step Two
Sand the wall lightly to rough up the area. Roughing the area will allow the sealant to stick.
Step Three
Roll sealant onto the plasterboard. Sealant is required prior to painting to prevent the paint from soaking in completely. Allow the sealant to dry for 24 hours prior to painting.
Step Four
Paint the wall using a roller. Move in a smooth, overlapping motion. Plasterboard surfaces tend to appear uneven. The smoother the paint applied, the less uneven the plasterboard's appearance.
Step Five
Apply a second coat if needed. Allow the first coat to dry before you decide whether it needs an additional coat.