Is Your Wall Paint Peeling Off? Here's What to Do
If you're frustrated with paint peeling off wall surfaces in your home, you're not alone. Denver's four-season climate can cause peeling paint problems – unsightly problems. Once moisture sneaks in between your walls and the paint layer, cracking, peeling, and flaking can easily occur. The beauty of your home is compromised when paint is sloughing off the walls. Therefore, it's important to learn why the paint is peeling so you can repair it and prevent it from happening again.
If you're ready to tackle peeling paint, Singletrack Painting can help. At Singletrack, we help you discover the reasons for peeling paint and offer expert solutions for lasting, professional fixes. With years of experience painting in the Denver and Front Range, Singletrack has extensive expertise in solving paint peeling problems. Read on to learn how to fix paint peeled off walls in order to end the problem once and for all.
Understanding Why Paint Peels Off Walls
Uncovering the core reason that causes paint to peel is the key to lasting repairs. Even the best paint job won't prevent paint from peeling if the problems that caused the peeling aren't resolved. Professional painters understand the importance of diagnosing paint peeling problems and will never paint until the cause of peeling is addressed.
If you're asking, "Why is my paint peeling?" – here are the most common reasons:
Improperly Prepped and Primed Wall – Skipping prep steps or primer will cause peeling.
Painting latex over oil-based paint – Painting the wrong paint over a previous paint job causes peeling because it prevents the new paint from adhering properly.
High Temperatures – High temps cause the paint to dry out and then flake and peel.
Intense Sunlight – Intense UV rays draw moisture out of the paint, causing it to peel.
Moisture – Whether due to condensation, high humidity, constant exposure to sprinklers, or leaking pipes, moisture absorbs into the paint and can cause it to separate from the subsurface.
The Wrong Kind of Paint – Paint comes in a variety of formulations designed for specific use. Using the wrong kind of paint on a surface can cause peeling. For example, masonry paint must be used on a brick or concrete wall.
Old Paint – Just like packaged food, paint has an expiration date. Old paint loses its binding properties and will therefore flake and peel.
Paint Applied Over Peeling Paint – It can be tempting to grab a brush and cover the unsightly peeling with fresh paint. But that's a recipe for disaster. The new paint won't have a base to adhere to and will start peeling shortly after painting.
Effective Solutions to Fix Peeling Paint
Once the cause of wall paint peeling is determined and solved, wall repairs can be made. But before you get started, consider if your home may have lead-based paint. Lead-based paint is dangerous and can be found in homes built before 1978. Contact a certified professional to test and remove the paint if you suspect lead. The Environmental Protection Agency has a list of approved contractors.
If you're ready to learn how to fix peeled paint on wall surfaces, gather the following tools, equipment, and materials:
Protective safety glasses, gloves, and mask
Tarps or plastic sheeting
Paint scraper and/or wire brush
Putty knife
Paintbrush, roller, and tray
Painters' tape
Patching compound
Fine 220-grit sandpaper
Primer
Paint
10 steps to repair peeling paint:
Remove all art and accessories from walls, move furniture into the center of the room, lay out tarps, and tape off non-painted areas.
Remove all cracked and peeling paint with the paint scraper. Create a valley in the wall to bring the surface even with the surrounding wall.
Remove all stains, either by washing or by using a stain-covering primer.
Using the putty knife, fill cracks, holes, and the valley with a patching compound. Let patches dry thoroughly.
Sand the entire wall so it's uniformly smooth.
Wipe down the entire wall with a slightly damp rag. Let the wall dry completely.
Prime the wall so that the new paint will adhere properly.
Paint the wall. Let the first coat dry according to paint can specifications before painting the second coat.
Once the final coat is dry, remove the painters' tape and tarps.
Move your furniture into place and enjoy your beautiful new walls.
When to Call Professionals for Peeling Paint
As you know, a quality paint job will increase your home's value so it's vital to repair peeling paint. If you're not up to tackling peeling paint on your own, or simply don't have the time, you can count on professional painters to manage the job with skill and expertise.
Singletrack Painting provides superior repair and interior painting services. We understand complex peeling issues and will save you time and stress by completing quality repairs and top-notch painting. We don't just repair, we look into the core cause of peeling paint. Our pro painters will have the job done in a fraction of the time it can take you to buy tools, equipment, and materials; prep and prime; and then paint and clean up. Singletrack Painting is happy to give you an estimate so you can evaluate the cost of room painting before you decide to do it yourself.
Preventing Future Paint Peeling
To prevent paint from peeling in the future, follow a basic home maintenance routine. Periodically check your home for moisture and humidity, especially after heavy rains and snow melt. Inspect for roof leaks, foundation or basement moisture, and control humidity in kitchens and bathrooms.
When it's time to paint, make sure you carefully prep and prime before painting. And be sure to use the right kind of high-quality paint for the job. If you're unsure about any painting issues, consider hiring a painting company. For example, Singletrack Painting's consultation services can guide you on preventative maintenance and quality painting solutions specific to your home and property.
Singletrack Painting: Your Partner in Wall Care
When it comes to preventing and/or repairing paint peeling issues, you can count on Singletrack Painting's expertise and fine workmanship. Our years of experience with exterior and interior painting in Denver and the Front Range gives us an extra edge on which materials, paints, and methods provide long-lasting quality. And, we love making our customers happy! Invest in your home with Singletrack's painting skills and ask for an estimate today.
