How to paint textured walls is one of the biggest questions people face when starting interior house painting in Brick, NJ. Textured surfaces are tricky—paint loves to skip over valleys and cling to the peaks, and unless you’re ready with the right strategy, you can easily end up with a blotchy, frustrating mess.

I remember working with a homeowner who had textured walls throughout their dining room. They had already tried painting with a smooth roller, and after three coats, they still saw uneven coverage. Once we switched to a thicker nap and took the time to prep properly, the results spoke for themselves. The wall looked clean, consistent, and better than they imagined.

If you’re thinking about tackling textured walls, this guide will walk you through the steps that actually work.

Key Takeaways

  • Prep first. Dust and grime on texture can ruin your final finish.
  • Use the right roller nap to reach into grooves without excess pressure.
  • Edges matter. Precision cuts are even more noticeable on textured walls.
  • Take your time. Don’t rush from one section to another.
  • Check for drips from multiple angles before moving to the next spot.

Get Your Tools and Materials in Order

Painting walls with textured paint means picking tools that match the surface—not just the color. This is very crucial particularly in choosing the right paint rollers. Foam rollers or all-purpose covers won’t cut it here. For light texture, a 1/2-inch nap works great. For heavier textures like knockdown or orange peel, bump that up to 3/4-inch.

Here’s what I’d recommend having on hand:

  • 9-inch roller frame with thick nap roller
  • 2-inch angled brush for cut-ins and trim
  • Interior-grade primer and paint
  • Painter’s tape, drop cloths, and disposable tray liners
  • Spackle for small dents and holes
  • A vacuum with brush attachment or a lint-free dust cloth

A professional house painter will always prep like this is the most important part—because it is.

How to Paint Textured Walls Without the Stress

Start with a Clean Canvas

Textured walls don’t just collect light and shadow—they also collect dust. Give them a good wipe-down with a vacuum or microfiber cloth. This is one of those steps that seems small but makes a massive difference.

Look out for small gouges or popped nails. I usually skip the putty knife and use a gloved finger to apply spackle. It’s quicker, and it blends better with the wall’s natural surface.

Prep Fixtures and Tape Like a Pro

Before you start taping, turn off power and remove all outlet covers and light switch plates. Put hardware into labeled bags so nothing gets misplaced.

Use painter’s tape around all trim, baseboards, and ceiling lines. Make sure to press it into the wall’s surface well. If you really want clean lines, run a small bead of caulk over the edge of the tape and let it dry.

Cover your floors and move any nearby furniture. Even experienced painters end up with splatters—it happens.

Prime Before You Paint

Primer makes paint go on smoother, especially when dealing with textured walls. Pour it into a tray liner, load your roller evenly, and apply in small 3- to 4-foot patches.

I always recommend standing back and angling the light while scanning your work. Drips and thin spots hide in texture, so double-check before moving on. Use your brush to hit corners, sockets, and around trim.

what you need to paint a wall, painting new house interior

Apply Paint in Small, Manageable Areas

Once the primer is dry, pour your top coat into a clean tray. Use the same method as before: slow rolls, overlapping passes, and light pressure.

I once worked with a couple who thought more pressure meant better coverage. They ended up flattening the texture and needed touch-ups. Let the nap do the work for you.

If you’re using a rich or deep shade, expect to do two coats. Always let the first coat dry completely.

Brush Edges Carefully for a Finished Look

Use the angled brush to work edges and corners that the roller missed. This part can make or break the entire wall’s appearance.

Before the paint fully dries, pull your painter’s tape. Doing this at the right moment prevents peeling and gives you a cleaner edge.

Professional House Painter Tips for a Better Finish

Want your results to match what a professional house painter would deliver? Keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t soak the roller. Too much paint equals splatter.
  • Apply paint in thin layers. Rushing thick coats causes runs.
  • Check the wall from different angles. You’ll spot more flaws that way.
  • Use caulk for extra-sharp tape lines on bumpy walls.
  • Dab with your brush into deep texture—not long strokes.

A few small changes can save you hours of frustration.

By now, you’ve probably figured out that painting walls with textured paint takes more effort than a smooth surface. The good news? You don’t have to rush it, and you don’t have to go it alone either.

Many homeowners start and then realize halfway through they’d rather call in a professional house painter. There’s no shame in that.

how to paint textured walls

Let ProEdge Painting Handle If You’re in Doubt

If you’re planning interior house painting in Brick, NJ and you’ve got walls that aren’t exactly flat, ProEdge Painting can help.

We’ve worked with homeowners all over Brick, Toms River, Manchester, and the surrounding New Jersey Suburbs, to bring smooth, clean finishes to textured surfaces. Whether you’re refreshing one room or redoing the whole interior, we’ve got your back.

Call ProEdge Painting at (732) 402-0036 for a FREE estimate and let’s make those textured walls work for you—not against you.