If you’ve ever stared at your bumpy, outdated walls and wished for a sleek, modern upgrade, you’re in good company. Many homeowners turn to professional interior house painters when they want to achieve a smooth finish on textured walls, and for good reason. Smoothing out those ridges isn’t just about slapping on a coat of paint. It takes the right tools, techniques, and a bit of patience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to transform your textured walls into a smooth surface you’ll love. Whether you’re tackling a small bathroom or an entire house, this straightforward process can help you get the results you want—without the guesswork.

Key Takeaways:

  • Textured walls can be smoothed with a few essential tools and prep work.
  • Patience and technique are crucial for a professional-looking finish.
  • Priming and painting are just as important as sanding and patching.
  • Hiring pros can save time and ensure a flawless result.

Why Smooth Walls Are Worth the Work

Textured walls were once all the rage, especially in homes built in the ’70s and ’80s. But today’s homeowners prefer the clean, crisp look of smooth walls. Smooth walls reflect light better, make rooms feel more spacious, and serve as a neutral canvas for decor. They also increase the resale value of your home and give it a more modern feel.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Smooth Finish on Textured Walls

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Drop cloths and painter’s tape
  • Safety gear (goggles, mask, gloves)
  • Joint compound
  • Putty knife or drywall knife
  • Sanding tools (manual or power sander)
  • Primer and high-quality interior paint

Step 1: Prep the Room

Remove furniture or cover everything with drop cloths. Use painter’s tape around baseboards and trim. Make sure to ventilate the area.

Step 2: Clean the Walls

Wipe down the walls to remove dust and grime. If there’s any peeling paint or wallpaper residue, remove it completely.

Step 3: Apply Joint Compound

Using a wide drywall knife, apply a thin coat of joint compound over the textured surface. Work in sections and keep the layers even. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next. You may need two to three coats to fully cover the texture.

Step 4: Sand It Smooth

Once dry, sand the wall using a sanding pole or electric sander. Wear a mask—this part gets dusty. The goal is to create an even, flat surface. Feel the wall with your hand to check for smoothness.

Step 5: Prime the Walls

Priming is essential. It helps the paint adhere better and ensures a consistent finish. Use a high-quality primer and let it dry thoroughly.

Step 6: Paint Like a Pro

Use a roller for large areas and a brush for corners and edges. Apply two coats of your chosen paint color, allowing ample drying time between coats.

Pro Tips from Professional Interior House Painters

Want your results to look like they came from a pro? Here are some insider tips from professional interior house painters that can make all the difference. These techniques don’t just make the job easier—they ensure your walls look amazing when you’re done.

  • Use lightweight joint compound for easier spreading and sanding. It’s less dense than regular compound, which means less strain on your arms and quicker dry times.
  • Feather out edges of the compound for a seamless blend. This helps avoid noticeable ridges or patches that can show through your final coat of paint.
  • Invest in good sanding tools to speed up the process. A quality sanding pole or electric sander can save you hours of work and lead to a much smoother result.
  • Don’t rush drying times—it leads to cracks and uneven surfaces. Let each layer of compound and paint dry fully before moving on to the next step for best results.

When to Call in the Pros

If you’re short on time, have large areas to cover, or want a flawless finish, hiring professional interior house painters might be the way to go. They have the experience and tools to do the job quickly and efficiently, saving you frustration and ensuring the results last.

Final Thoughts: It’s a Project Worth Doing

Getting a smooth finish on textured walls isn’t as intimidating as it seems. With the right prep, a bit of elbow grease, and some patience, you can achieve the modern, polished look you want.

Or—if you’d rather not DIY it—our team at Make It Happen Painting is here to help. With years of experience in wall prep and interior painting, we’ll take care of the hard work and leave you with walls you’ll be proud to show off. Call us today at 352-309-3999 to schedule your free estimate.