I've compiled the top latex primers for drywall that will transform your walls. INSL-X Aqua Lock Plus seals with excellent stain-blocking prowess, ideal for interior and exterior surfaces. Zinsser 1-2-3 All Surface Primer offers quick drying and versatility, perfect for glossy surfaces too. Rust-Oleum Bulls Eye 1-2-3 excels at adhesion and hides tough stains like graffiti. For a cost-effective choice, Diamond Brite's Latex PVA Primer is fast-drying and works on imperfections. Zinsser 1-2-3 Plus Spray Primer covers more area efficiently. Enhance wall durability and appearance smartly with these primer choices. More tips on primer variety and application await.
Key Takeaways
- Quick dry times of 30 minutes to 1 hour for efficient application.
- Exceptional stain-blocking properties for a clean finish.
- Versatile coverage for interior and exterior surfaces.
- Low VOC content for eco-friendly painting.
- Strong adhesion to various surfaces like drywall, wood, and masonry.
INSL-X Aqua Lock Plus Acrylic Water-Based Sealer Primer, 32 Fl Oz (White)
For DIY enthusiasts looking to achieve excellent adhesion and superior coverage on various interior and exterior surfaces, the INSL-X Aqua Lock Plus Acrylic Water-Based Sealer Primer stands out as the top choice in latex primers for drywall.
This 32 fl oz product from INSL-X, a reputable brand known for quality paints and primers, offers a flat finish and is made of acrylic. It can be used both indoors and outdoors and is recommended for surfaces like wood, masonry, concrete, and drywall.
With a quick dry time of just 1 hour and the ability to cover 75 to 100 sq ft per quart, this primer is both efficient and effective. Its stain-blocking properties make it an excellent base coat for latex and oil-based finish coatings, ensuring a smooth and durable finish on your walls.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts seeking a reliable primer for achieving excellent adhesion and superior coverage on various interior and exterior surfaces.
Pros:
- Quick dry time of only 1 hour
- Excellent stain-blocking properties
- Can be used on multiple surfaces including wood, masonry, concrete, and drywall
Cons:
- Potential issues with receiving leaked or dried-up product
Zinsser 286258 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer, Quart, Gray
The Zinsser 286258 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer, Quart, Gray, is an ideal choice for those seeking efficient coverage and quick drying times when prepping drywall surfaces. This water-based primer is suitable for both interior and exterior use on various surfaces, making it versatile for different projects.
With a drying time of just 30 minutes and the ability to recoat in 1 hour, this primer is perfect for those looking to complete their painting jobs efficiently. Its gray color not only provides excellent stain blocking resistance but also enhances the coverage of deep topcoats. Customers have praised its quick drying time, good coverage with a single coat, and its effectiveness on glossy surfaces.
Overall, the Zinsser 286258 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer offers high quality at an affordable price, making it a top choice for many DIY enthusiasts.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile, quick-drying, and high-quality primer for interior and exterior surfaces.
Pros:
- Quick drying time of 30 minutes
- Good coverage with a single coat
- Effective on glossy surfaces
Cons:
- Mixed experiences with packaging quality
Rust-Oleum 2004 286258 Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer, 31.5 oz, Gray
Binds moderately chalky surfaces, making it ideal for those looking to enhance the durability of their drywall. This Rust-Oleum 2004 286258 Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer in Gray is a versatile option designed for both interior and exterior use. It sticks well even to glossy surfaces and offers lasting adhesion similar to oil-based primers.
Known for its ability to hide stains like graffiti and wood tannin, this primer provides great value for its quality finish. Users appreciate its long-lasting properties, recommending it for various applications such as cabinets, furniture, walls, and outdoor furniture. With its capacity to cover stains effectively, including those from markers, this primer is easy to use and a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts.
Best For: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for a versatile primer that provides long-lasting adhesion and effectively hides stains.
Pros:
- Binds moderately chalky surfaces for enhanced durability
- Sticks well to glossy surfaces
- Offers lasting adhesion similar to oil-based primers
Cons:
- Ineffective packaging resulting in dented cans and spillage
Diamond Brite Paint 40100 1-Gallon Latex PVA Primer Sealer
Ideal for both interior and exterior drywall projects, Diamond Brite Paint 40100 1-Gallon Latex PVA Primer Sealer offers fast drying and low odor properties, making it a versatile choice for various surfaces. This primer and sealer combo is designed for new drywall, providing a smooth base for painting while hiding surface imperfections.
It can be used with both latex and oil paint, offering flexibility in your projects. Users have found it easy to apply, whether brushed, rolled, or sprayed. While some experienced adhesion issues with the top coat, others praised its ability to cover well and adhere to different types of paint.
Clean-up is a breeze with soap and water, but remember to protect it from freezing. Diamond Brite Paint 40100 is a cost-effective option for enhancing the finish of your walls.
Best For: Ideal for DIY enthusiasts looking for an affordable and versatile primer and sealer for both interior and exterior drywall projects.
Pros:
- Fast drying and low odor
- Can be used with both latex and oil paint
- Hides surface imperfections effectively
Cons:
- Some users experienced adhesion issues with the top coat
Zinsser 272479 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Spray Primer, 13 oz, White
For those seeking a versatile and high-performance primer suitable for both interior and exterior applications on various surfaces, Zinsser 272479 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Spray Primer stands out as an efficient choice.
This all-purpose, oil-based primer dries quickly to the touch in just 30 minutes, covering up to 12 square feet with a smooth white finish that effectively hides imperfections in just one coat. Offering excellent stain-blocking resistance, it can be used under any oil or latex topcoat.
What sets this primer apart is its 20% greater coverage compared to other primers, ensuring a longer life for topcoats. Customers have praised its quality, coverage, and ease of use for DIY projects, making it a highly recommended option for various applications like painting furniture, metal, and even repairing fiberglass surfaces.
Best For: Individuals looking for a versatile and efficient primer suitable for both interior and exterior applications on various surfaces.
Pros:
- Quick drying time of 30 minutes
- Excellent stain-blocking resistance
- 20% greater coverage compared to other primers
Cons:
- Oil-based formula may have strong odor
KILZ Klear Primer, Interior/Exterior, Clear, 1 Gallon
When considering a high-performance clear primer for both interior and exterior surfaces, KILZ Klear Primer stands out as a versatile and effective choice for sealing porous and chalky surfaces. This primer from KILZ offers excellent bonding and sealing properties, making it suitable for various surfaces like drywall, plaster, wood, and even masonry.
With its alkali-resistant formula, it provides added protection to topcoats from hot alkali substances commonly found in materials like cement and plaster. Additionally, KILZ Klear Primer dries quickly, allowing for recoating or topcoating after just one hour.
Its superior coverage means that one gallon can cover approximately 300-400 square feet, making it a cost-effective option for your painting projects.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professional painters looking for a versatile clear primer for sealing porous and chalky interior and exterior surfaces.
Pros:
- Offers excellent bonding and sealing properties on various surfaces.
- Fast-drying formula allows for quick recoating or topcoating.
- Superior coverage, with one gallon covering approximately 300-400 square feet.
Cons:
- Strong odor during application may require proper ventilation.
INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer, 1 Quart, White
As a professional painter, I highly recommend the INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer for its exceptional adhesion to challenging surfaces like glossy tile, PVC, and vinyl, making it a versatile choice for various projects involving drywall and other surfaces.
This premium-quality acrylic-urethane bonding primer-sealer offers unparalleled adhesion, making it suitable for drywall, wood trim, Formica, ceramic tiles, masonry walls, and more. It bonds well and can be top-coated with almost any product, providing excellent enamel holdout for a smooth topcoat finish.
With coverage of 75-100 square feet for interior or exterior use, this primer fully cures in temperatures as low as 35°F. Additionally, its low VOC content and easy soap and water cleanup make it a convenient choice for painters looking for quality results.
Best For: Ideal for professional painters and DIY enthusiasts looking for a versatile bonding primer with exceptional adhesion to challenging surfaces.
Pros:
- Unparalleled adhesion to glossy tile, PVC, vinyl, and more.
- Can be top-coated with almost any product for a smooth finish.
- Suitable for interior or exterior use with low VOC content.
Cons:
- Strong paint smell during application may require good ventilation.
INSL-X Prime All Multi-Surface Primer, White (128 Fl Oz)
Ideal for both interior and exterior surfaces, the INSL-X Prime All Multi-Surface Primer in White (128 Fl Oz) provides exceptional adhesion, stain-blocking capabilities, and rapid drying time, making it a versatile choice for various painting projects.
This 100% acrylic primer seals surfaces effectively, offering strong adhesion and the ability to block stains. Its quick-drying nature allows for top coating in as little as one hour, saving time during your painting projects. Covering 400-450 square feet per gallon, this primer is a cost-effective option for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
While not recommended for floors, it proves effective on a wide range of other surfaces. Users have praised its ease of application and excellent coverage, with many achieving desired results in just one coat.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile and cost-effective acrylic primer with exceptional adhesion and stain-blocking capabilities.
Pros:
- Strong adhesion and stain-blocking properties
- Quick-drying for faster project completion
- Covers a large area per gallon, making it cost-effective
Cons:
- Not recommended for use on floors
Benjamin Moore Insl-x Prime All White Flat Acrylic Latex Primer – 1 qt. (Case of 1)
For those seeking exceptional adhesion and versatile performance on various surfaces, the Benjamin Moore Insl-x Prime All White Flat Acrylic Latex Primer – 1 qt. (Case of 1) stands out as a professional-grade choice.
This primer offers easy application with minimal splattering, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Its water-based formula provides enhanced durability, safeguarding surfaces against wear and tear.
With a low odor level and quick drying time of just one hour before recoating, this primer is efficient and convenient. The primer is tintable, allowing for customization to suit different color needs. Its spatter-resistant feature ensures a clean application process.
Overall, Benjamin Moore's Insl-x Prime All White Flat Acrylic Latex Primer is a reliable option for achieving a professional finish on your walls.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts looking for a professional-grade primer that offers exceptional adhesion and versatile performance on various surfaces.
Pros:
- Easy application with minimal splattering
- Enhanced durability protecting surfaces
- Tintable for customization to suit different color needs
Cons:
- Full cure time of 1 day may be longer than desired
USG Interiors Sheetrock Tuff-Hide Flat White Latex-Based Primer for Drywall 5 gal
Looking for a durable primer specifically designed for Sheetrock surfaces on drywall? The USG Interiors Sheetrock Tuff-Hide Flat White Latex-Based Primer in a 5-gallon size might just be what you need.
This primer, manufactured by USG Interiors, comes in a classic white color and is formulated with latex for easy application. With a coverage area of 500-625 sq. ft., this primer offers great value for its size.
It dries quickly, allowing for recoating in just 90 minutes, saving you time on your painting project. Cleanup is a breeze with soap and water. Plus, the plastic packaging ensures durability during storage and transport.
Consider giving this primer a try to achieve a smooth and long-lasting finish on your drywall surfaces.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable and easy-to-use primer for Sheetrock surfaces on drywall.
Pros:
- Easy application with latex-based formula.
- Quick drying time of 90 minutes for recoating.
- Large coverage area of 500-625 sq. ft. for great value.
Cons:
- May require multiple coats for optimal coverage.
KILZ Adhesion Primer, Interior/Exterior, 1 Quart
With its high adhesion properties, KILZ Adhesion Primer in 1 quart size is a reliable choice for those tackling challenging surfaces when painting drywall. This primer, suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces, features a styrenated acrylic polymer that guarantees topcoat anchoring, making it ideal for tough-to-paint surfaces like glass and vinyl.
The water-based formula not only provides superior coverage, with one quart covering 75-100 square feet, but also offers special features like being waterproof and low odor. The white finish in a gloss type adds a sleek touch to your walls.
Weighing 3.12 pounds and with dimensions of 4.25 x 4.25 x 4.9 inches, this KILZ primer, model L211114, comes in a convenient can package and is backed by a limited warranty for your peace of mind.
Best For: Those needing a high adhesion primer for challenging surfaces, both interior and exterior.
Pros:
- Superior adhesion properties for tough-to-paint surfaces like glass and vinyl.
- Water-based formula with low odor and waterproof features.
- Provides excellent coverage, with one quart covering 75-100 square feet.
Cons:
- Gloss finish may not be suitable for all painting projects.
Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Latex White Primer, Quart
Ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professional painters, the Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Latex White Primer in quart size offers a versatile and durable solution for priming a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces. This acrylic flat white primer is suitable for materials like wood, metal, plaster, masonry, or unglazed ceramic, making it a go-to choice for various projects.
With a water-based formula, it boasts low odor, chip resistance, and long-lasting protection. Covering up to 120 sq ft, this primer dries to the touch in just 30 minutes, allowing for efficient workflow. Its flat finish helps minimize imperfections, providing a smooth base for your paint job.
Whether you're working on furniture, stairs, tables, or metal surfaces, this primer delivers reliable coverage and durability, making it a valuable addition to your toolkit.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professional painters looking for a versatile and durable primer for indoor and outdoor surfaces.
Pros:
- Low odor water-based acrylic formula
- Quick drying time of 30 minutes
- Suitable for a variety of materials like wood, metal, plaster, and masonry
Cons:
- Some users experienced issues with brush strokes and finish quality
ZINSSER 1 qt 260925 White, Peel Stop Triple Thick Ponding Primer
For those seeking a reliable solution to seal and restore peeling interior or exterior surfaces, ZINSSER 1 qt 260925 White, Peel Stop Triple Thick Ponding Primer offers a durable and efficient option.
This water-based primer-sealer from Zinsser is designed to work on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete. Its triple-thick formula penetrates and bonds with cracked or peeling areas, gluing down edges and filling in gaps for a smooth finish.
The primer dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and can be recoated in 2 hours, allowing for a quick application process. It creates a smooth, flexible, sealed finish that can be top-coated with any alkyd or latex paint.
Users have reported that this primer effectively stops paint peeling and helps improve the appearance of old, weathered surfaces.
Best For: Homeowners and professionals looking to effectively seal and restore peeling interior or exterior surfaces with a durable primer-sealer.
Pros:
- Triple-thick formula penetrates and bonds with cracked or peeling surfaces
- Dries quickly to the touch in 30 minutes
- Can be top-coated with any alkyd or latex paint
Cons:
- Some users may experience issues with coverage and thickness
Rust-Oleum Zinsser Shieldz Universal Wallcovering Primer Sealer, 1-Gallon
When considering a primer for preparing walls for wallpapering, the Rust-Oleum Zinsser Shieldz Universal Wallcovering Primer Sealer, 1-Gallon stands out for its all-in-one functionality, making it a convenient choice for those looking to prime, hide, seal, and size walls in a single step.
This Zinsser product, with its excellent adhesion to all paintable surfaces, covers colors and patterns effectively, while also sealing builder's flat latex paint. Users have found it easy to use, providing good coverage for their projects. It's particularly praised for priming canvases for murals and aiding in hanging wallpaper with perfect seams.
While some users faced issues with packaging and leaking during delivery, the overall feedback is positive regarding its effectiveness in priming, sealing, and sizing walls.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile primer for preparing walls for wallpapering.
Pros:
- All-in-one functionality for priming, hiding, sealing, and sizing walls in a single step.
- Excellent adhesion to all paintable surfaces.
- Effective in covering colors and patterns while sealing builder's flat latex paint.
Cons:
- Some users have experienced issues with packaging and leaking during delivery.
Gorilla Heavy Duty Wall Repair Spackling + Primer, 16 Ounce Tub,White
With its lightweight formula and smooth finish requiring no sanding, Gorilla Heavy Duty Wall Repair Spackling + Primer, 16 Ounce Tub in White is a versatile option for achieving strong and durable repairs on walls and ceilings. This spackling compound is designed for easy application, spreading smoothly without sagging, shrinking, or cracking.
It dries quickly, allowing for painting in just 15 minutes. Whether you're dealing with cracks, small holes, or large holes, this product can handle them all with ease. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, Gorilla Heavy Duty Wall Repair Spackling + Primer is a convenient solution for your wall repair needs.
Plus, its paintable finish mimics drywall, ensuring a seamless blend with your existing wall surfaces.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking for an easy-to-use and quick-drying solution for repairing walls and ceilings.
Pros:
- Lightweight formula for easy application
- Smooth finish without the need for sanding
- Quick drying time of 15 minutes for painting
Cons:
- Requires sanding outside hole areas before application
Factors to Consider When Choosing Latex Primer for Drywall

When selecting a latex primer for drywall, it's important to take into account key selection factors like adhesion and stain-blocking properties. Surface compatibility should also be assessed to make sure the primer works well with the drywall material.
Additionally, understanding application techniques, drying time considerations, and coverage area specifications can help achieve a successful primer application on drywall surfaces.
Key Selection Factors
Choosing the correct latex primer for drywall involves taking into account key factors that guarantee a successful painting project.
Latex primers, being water-based, offer easy cleanup with soap and water. They deliver a smooth finish suitable for both interior and exterior applications. With quick drying times, latex primers enable faster recoating and project completion. Their low VOC content makes them environmentally friendly choices. Additionally, these versatile primers can be applied to various surfaces like drywall, wood, plaster, and masonry.
When selecting a latex primer for drywall, consider factors such as drying time, ease of cleanup, surface compatibility, and environmental impact to make sure a successful and efficient painting experience.
Surface Compatibility
Surface compatibility plays an essential role in determining the effectiveness of latex primers for drywall applications. Latex primers are versatile, suitable for various surfaces like drywall, wood, plaster, and masonry. Their strong adhesion to porous materials such as drywall guarantees proper paint adhesion and coverage, leading to a smooth and durable finish.
Whether for interior or exterior projects, latex primers offer a convenient solution due to their ease of application and water-based cleanup. By providing a solid base for paint, these primers enhance the overall appearance and longevity of painted surfaces. Their compatibility with different substrates makes them a reliable choice for DIY enthusiasts looking to transform their walls effortlessly.
Application Techniques
For best results when priming drywall with latex, make sure the surface is clean and dust-free before applying thin, even coats using a high-quality brush or roller. This preparation is essential to guarantee the primer adheres well to the drywall surface.
By using a high-quality tool, such as a brush or roller, you can achieve smooth and even coverage, preventing drips or streaks. It's important to allow each coat of latex primer to dry completely before adding additional coats. This process promotes ideal adhesion and enhances the effectiveness of the primer.
Consider using a tinted latex primer if you plan to apply paint over the drywall, as it can help with color coverage and overall finish.
Drying Time Considerations
To optimize the painting process and achieve efficient results on drywall surfaces, understanding the drying time considerations of latex primers is crucial. Latex primers designed for drywall typically offer quick drying times, allowing for recoating or top coating in as little as 30 minutes to 1 hour.
This quick-drying feature can greatly expedite painting projects, making latex primers a convenient choice for those seeking efficient results. Factors such as humidity, temperature, and ventilation can influence the actual drying time, so following the manufacturer's guidelines is key for the best outcome.
Quick-drying latex primers are particularly beneficial for areas where time is of the essence, such as commercial projects or rooms needing a swift turnaround. Choosing a latex primer with an appropriate drying time can help streamline the painting process and achieve a smooth, professional finish on drywall surfaces.
Coverage Area Specifications
When selecting a latex primer for drywall, it's important to take into account the coverage area specifications to guarantee sufficient application for your project. Latex primers typically cover 200-400 square feet per gallon, with coverage varying based on the brand and formulation.
It's important to think about the specific requirements of your project to make sure you purchase the right amount of primer. Higher quality latex primers may offer better coverage per gallon, potentially reducing the quantity needed.
Manufacturer-provided coverage area specifications can help estimate the primer quantity required for your drywall project. Adequate coverage is essential for a uniform base coat, good adhesion, and achieving a professional finish on your drywall surfaces.
Odor and VOC Levels
Taking into account the impact of odor and VOC levels is essential when selecting a latex primer for drywall applications. Low VOC levels in latex primers reduce harmful emissions, making them a healthier choice for both during and after application.
Opting for odorless or low odor latex primers is ideal for indoor projects, ensuring a comfortable environment and minimizing the risk of headaches or respiratory issues. These low odor options are particularly beneficial for individuals sensitive to strong smells in enclosed spaces.
Additionally, choosing a primer with minimal odor not only enhances the painting experience but also contributes to environmental friendliness by complying with regulations for indoor air quality.
Sealant and Stain Blocking
Considering the importance of achieving a smooth and flawless paint job on drywall surfaces, the sealant and stain-blocking capabilities of a latex primer are key factors to evaluate when making your selection. A high-quality latex primer should seal the drywall effectively, creating a pristine surface for painting.
Stain-blocking properties are essential to prevent any existing stains or discoloration from ruining your fresh coat of paint. Additionally, a premium latex primer will cover up imperfections like minor cracks, knots, or joint compound, ensuring a uniform finish.
Good adhesion is vital for long-lasting results, as it promotes strong bonding between the primer and the drywall. Opting for a latex primer with low odor and quick drying time can also simplify and speed up your priming process for drywall projects.
Topcoat Compatibility
To guarantee a strong and durable finish on drywall surfaces, it's essential to take into account the compatibility of latex primers with various topcoat options.
Latex primers offer versatility as they can be paired with both latex and oil-based topcoats, providing a range of finishing choices. By creating a robust bond with the topcoat, latex primers guarantee a long-lasting and resilient finish on the drywall. Their exceptional adhesion properties help the topcoat adhere effectively to the drywall surface, enhancing overall performance.
Opting for a latex primer specifically formulated for drywall can further improve the quality of the topcoat application. Properly applying a latex primer seals the surface, prevents stains from bleeding through, and facilitates a smooth topcoat finish, resulting in walls that look professionally finished.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Latex Primers Be Tinted to Match My Wall Color?
Yes, most latex primers can be tinted to match your wall color. Tinting provides a customized finish that blends seamlessly with your existing decor.
Simply take your desired color swatch to the store, and they can mix the primer to match it. This option allows for greater color coordination and enhances the overall aesthetic of your walls.
Tinting is a simple yet effective way to achieve a cohesive look in your space.
Are These Primers Suitable for Exterior Drywall Applications?
Yes, these primers are suitable for exterior drywall applications.
I recently used a high-quality latex primer on my outdoor drywall, and it provided excellent coverage and protection against the elements.
It adhered well and helped create a smooth surface for painting.
Just make sure the primer is specifically labeled for exterior use to guarantee durability.
Will These Primers Help With Blocking Odors on My Walls?
Yes, these primers can help block odors on walls. They often contain ingredients that seal in smells, preventing them from seeping through the paint.
This can be particularly useful in areas where odors are a concern, like kitchens or bathrooms. When selecting a primer for odor-blocking purposes, look for products specifically designed for this function to guarantee the best results.
Can These Primers Be Used on Previously Painted Surfaces?
Yes, these primers can be used on previously painted surfaces. In fact, they're designed to adhere well to various types of surfaces, including previously painted ones. This versatility makes them a convenient choice for different painting projects.
It's important to make sure the surface is clean and properly prepped before applying the primer for the best results. Following these steps can help achieve a smooth and durable finish on your walls.
Do These Primers Require Sanding Before Applying Paint?
Yes, sanding is typically necessary before applying paint over latex primers on drywall. It helps guarantee a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to, promoting better coverage and a professional finish.
Skipping this step may result in an uneven appearance or poor paint adhesion. Sanding also helps to remove any imperfections or bumps on the wall, creating a more polished look once the paint is applied.
Conclusion
To wrap up, selecting the best latex primer for drywall can truly transform your walls and give them a fresh, new look. With the right primer, you can guarantee a smooth and long-lasting finish that will make your walls stand out.
So, don't underestimate the power of a good primer – it's the first step to achieving a flawless paint job. Choose wisely and watch your walls come to life!