Help! – My Paint Work Is Flaking Off the Walls!
What causes this? Can I simply and easily fix the problem myself? How can I avoid this problem from recurring?
Peeling or flaking paint can be caused by:
- an improperly prepared surface
- moisture seeping through the wall to the paint surface or perhaps the house has excess humidity
- latex paint used on top of oil paint
- an incorrect primer used, or no primer at all
- an inferior quality paint was used
- not allowing adequate drying time between coats
- age – perhaps it is time for a repaint as paint does not last forever
Let’s take a closer look at how flaking paint occurs and the steps you can take to rectify the problem, however when in doubt it’s always wise to leave it to the expert eye of a commercial painter, such as Panache Painting & Decorating to assist with your painting needs.
Moisture – resulting from a leaky roof or some other plumbing problem. You will need to have this corrected before you begin to deal with your peeling paint issue – otherwise repair jobs will be futile.
Too much humidity in the house – there are steps you can take to prevent this from continuing to be a problem:
- Have ventilation fans installed in those rooms that can create moisture such as the kitchen, bathroom and laundry.
- Have those rooms repainted using paint with a higher sheen level. This may help to reduce water absorption, which accelerates peeling ceilings.
Your home is an older style – it is possible that acrylic paint, which is flexible by nature, has been applied over an oil based paint (enamel) causing flaking and peeling to occur. This problem means the top coat needs to be completely removed and then an undercoat applied to stabilise the surface before repainting.
Use of incorrect primer (or no primer was used) – the paint needs to be completely stripped back and the surface primed with an oil-based primer with stain-blocking properties, which will also help to prevent water marks appearing and mildew growth.
Rule of thumb – always use quality paints as cheaper paint tends to be less adhesive and flexible, and is prone to flaking and peeling.
Whatever has caused your paint to flake and peel, unfortunately there is no quick and easy fix. Attempting to DIY carries the risk that if not done correctly, the problem will continue to recur.
Using the services of professional house painters Sydney, such as Panache Painting & Decorating can not only guarantee you a superb result, but can save you time and money in the short term, as well as the long term. Contact Steve today, mobile 0421 174 103, for an obligatory free quote!