How to Paint Over Dark Walls with Light Colors

Primer helps mask the existing color, reducing the number of top coats you need. Primer also allows the new paint to adhere better, creates a good base coat for your new color and helps make the new color look even throughout the room.

When looking for a primer to use on dark walls, the best option is a latex or water-based primer with a high-hide formula. The opacity of this type of primer simplifies dramatic top-coat color changes. A white primer works well or you can tint the primer. When painting over dark colors a tinted primer that’s a lighter shade of your final color can make it easier to get the final look you want. Mix the primer thoroughly to get the best coverage.

Good preparation is key to any painting project. Take care of these steps before you apply your primer or paint:

• Estimate the Paint and Primer You Need: Use your room measurements and Lowe’s Paint Calculator to estimate the amount of paint and primer you need for your project. Keep in mind you likely need at least two coats of each.
• Clean the Walls: Vacuum the walls and wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge. Allow the walls to dry completely.
• Repair the Walls: If the paint is flaking or peeling, scrape it off. Fill in any holes with spackling compound. Let the repair dry and sand it smooth with medium-grit sandpaper.
• Mask and Protect: Apply painter’s tape where the wall meets the ceiling or the baseboards, as well as around windows, doorknobs, lighting fixtures, etc. Let the tape adhesive set for about 30 minutes. Put down drop cloths to protect the floor and any furniture that remains in the room.
• Ventilate the Room: Ensure you have good ventilation when applying primer and your new paint.
• Have the Right Tools: High-quality, synthetic brushes and roller covers give you the best success when painting over darker colors with latex primer and paint. You get the best finish on smooth walls with a roller cover nap of 3/8 of an inch. If you have textured walls, you need higher-nap roller covers.

See our guide on preparing to paint and our paint applicator guide for more details and tips.

Use a 2-inch angled paint brush to apply the primer on one wall in the corners and any other tight spaces. This technique is known as cutting in. Then prime the rest of the wall using a roller in a W or M pattern. Overlap the strokes before they dry. Don’t overload the roller. Too much paint on the roller creates splatters, making it difficult to get the smooth finish you need for the top coat. Be sure you blend in the brush and roller strokes thoroughly to create an even base coat for the new color.

Repeat the process, cutting in and rolling on the next wall until you prime the entire room. Let the primer dry completely and carefully check the walls for traces of bleed-through. You might need a couple of coats to conceal the dark color fully. If you find traces of the color, apply another coat and let it dry fully.