How to fix peeling paint
What causes peeling paint?
Painted surfaces can peel for a number of reasons. The most common reason is that the area was not correctly prepped and primed before the last coats of paint were applied. However, as with any coating, external factors, such as sun, rain, wind and extreme temperatures can also cause a correctly prepared area to peel and chip. No matter what the reason, it is important to correctly prepare the surface before painting again, as not doing this guarantees that your new paintwork will most likely suffer the same timely fate.
How do you fix peeling paint?
As we mentioned, fixing peeling paint is relatively simple and definitely within the skill set of your average DIYer.
Tools and Materials Needed
Often, you will already have many of the tools and materials needed to repair your peeling paint. If not, any hardware store will carry these items and they are relatively inexpensive.
Shopping List
- Wood filler or wood putty.
- Putty knife or flexible flat pallet knife
- Paint scraper.
- Soft Wire brush.
- Electric orbital sander, or fine grit sandpaper sheets.
- Paint Primer.
Step 1. Scrape away loose edges.
With your paint scraper, scrape any loose paint off the walls or surface that is being repaired. Make sure that any loose edges have been removed, and that the paint that is left on the wall is still bonded well to the surface.
Step 2. Roughen the area.
With your wire brush and sandpaper, lightly sand the chipped area to remove any obvious edges. In the area around the peeling paint, ensure that you have roughened the area to help the putty and primer adhere to the surface, and prevent future peeling.
Step 3. Apply the wood filler or putty.
Scoop a small amount of wood filler or putty onto your putty knife and begin applying to the roughened area. It is best to gradually add putty as required, rather than having to remove large amounts as you smooth. With the knife, gradually smooth the area until the areas of peeling paint have been covered completely, and the area surrounding naturally blends with the newly filled area. Leave to dry for the time recommended on your putty product.
Step 4. Sanding to an even finish.
Once completely dry, using an electric sander or manually, sand the area in circular motions until all excess putty is removed and the surface is returned to an even texture. Slow and steady is the goal here, to ensure that your final result is even, and the chipped paint is completely masked.
Step 4. Prepping and priming.
After you have evened the newly covered surface, wipe down the area and surrounds with a lightly damp cloth. The goal here is to remove any dust and debris caused by sanding to ensure maximum adhesion of your priming product. After your area is clean, apply a thin coat or two of primer to the area, again ensure that the edges of the primer blend in with the existing paintwork.
If you are wanting help or advice on how to feel peeling paint, or think your paintwork requires a professional’s advice, feel free to reach out to our friendly team.
