Redecorating

PoGee

I've just removed wallpaper from walls that were plastered around 60 years ago. I'll make repairs to it as required. What's the quickest and easiest way to prime the walls before putting up wallpaper? I'm not looking for an expert's result, just something that'll last 3-4 years, when I might get a decorator in. 

ButterCheese

If the plaster shows no signs of cracking or coming off, then you can use a standard primer.  I have wallpapered over 20 year old plaster with just wallpaper paste and it was fine.  If yours has any stains/blemishes then you can get specific mould blocker primer.  The only thing to then consider is priming the repaired surfaces - new plaster or filler will need time to settle and then will need a dilute PVA glue wash, or dedicated primer to seal it i.e. to stop it absorbing all the moisture in the paint or paste that you then use

PoGee

Thanks ButterCheese. It's 95% in good condition surprisingly. I'll get the mould blocking primer as there's a tiny patch near the ceiling that looks mouldy. 

FreeBear

If the walls have already been papered, doubt they need "priming" again when repapering.

PoGee

FreeBear said:

If the walls have already been papered, doubt they need "priming" again when repapering.

I took all wallpaper off so it's bare plaster. I can't be bothered with the professional look which I think would mean putting up lining paper first, then wallpaper. I didn't know if old plaster is already primed or if I needed to re-prime it.

FreeBear

PoGee said:

FreeBear said:

If the walls have already been papered, doubt they need "priming" again when repapering.

I took all wallpaper off so it's bare plaster. I can't be bothered with the professional look which I think would mean putting up lining paper first, then wallpaper. I didn't know if old plaster is already primed or if I needed to re-prime it.

Priming a wall means applying a thinned down coat of paint or paste, usually to reduce suction and improve adhesion of the next coat. The walls will still have some of the old adhesive lurking in the pores of the plaster, so it will already be "primed". Scrubbing the wall with sugar soap will help to get rid of the old residue if you were wanting to paint over the top.

If you have any cracks & dings to fill, just slap a bit of dilute wallpaper paste on these spots once sanded down. I would advise against using PVA as a primer - If you (or the next occupant) decide to paint the wall, the areas with PVA may well see the paint peeling off.