Polystyrene is a material that is used to make a large number of items, ranging from food containers to foam packaging. The form most recognizable to many people is what is referred to as styrene foam insulation. These are large sheets of foam insulation with a shape similar to drywall, which you can easily apply to walls as insulation. Normally pink in color, it is possible to paint directly onto these styrene sheets, without applying a drywall layer on top.
Instructions
1. Sand the edges of the styrene. Any areas where the styrene was cut to fit an area of the wall, there will be rough edges in the foam. Use a 320 grit or higher sandpaper and lightly sand over the edges of the styrene to remove any loose foam particles and to smooth out the area.
2. Tape the seams. A seam is created everywhere the two styrene sheets meet. Use drywall tape and taping compound to seal over the seams. Taping the seams creates a smooth, consistent surface, so that once the wall is painted, you will not be able to tell where the seams are located.
3. Prime the surface of the styrene sheets. Use gesso as a primer for the styrene. Gesso is a blend of white paint, chalk and gypsum. It is commonly used as a base coat for canvas and can be found in art supply stores. Gesso will adhere to the styrene sheets and provide a solid primer coat to prevent the pink color from bleeding through your paint.
4. Paint the styrene sheets. Use a latex based paint to enhance styrene's use as an insulator. Pour a small amount of your desired paint into a paint tray. Use a foam paint roller to transfer the paint to the surface of the styrene sheets. Cover the entire area with a smooth, even coat and allow the paint to dry.
Related posts
Preparing a surface for painting involves making sure the surface is clean, free of debris, dirt and grease. Sanding a surface is part of the preparation, but it is also the most important part of...
Change the look of your room dramatically by painting the wall panels.Paneling was a popular decor option in many homes a few decades ago. Today, many homes are still bearing the mark of the panel...
Painting a home's interior is a task that yields immediate and dramatic results. There are many materials, colors and tints available for the painter to choose from. Understanding the surface to b...
Joint compound requires preparation before painting.Joint compound repairs and fills seams and nail holes in drywall. You can also use joint compound to repair cracked or damaged walls. You apply...
MDF (Medium Density Fiber Board) is used in many applications. MDF is easy to mill and holds a crisp edge when worked. MDF is for interior trim, cabinets, furniture, shelving, and molding. MDF is...
