The Short Answer
Yes, you can paint over a wall that is peeling, but you need to properly prepare the wall first by scraping off any loose paint, sanding the surface, applying painter’s tape around trim, and priming the wall before painting. Simply painting over peeling paint without proper prep work will likely lead to the new paint peeling off as well. Proper prep is the key to getting paint to adhere to a wall long-term.
What Causes Paint to Peel?
There are several common causes of paint peeling:
Moisture Issues
Excess moisture reaching the painted surface can cause bubbling and peeling. Sources of moisture include rain leaks, plumbing leaks, flooding, and excess humidity. Moisture gets behind the paint layer, forcing the paint away from the wall.
Poor Surface Preparation
If the wall surface is not properly cleaned and primed before painting, the paint will not adhere well. Dirt, grease, oil, and other contaminants prevent proper bonding.
Age and Wear
Over time, the sun’s UV rays will degrade exterior paint. As the binders in the paint break down, adhesion is reduced. On interior walls, simple wear and tear over many years can lead to peeling.
Incompatible Paints
Applying latex paint over alkyd enamel paint, or vice versa, often leads to peeling. The two finishes expand and contract at different rates, leading to loss of adhesion.
How to Prep a Peeling Wall for Paint
Proper surface prep is vital before repainting a peeling wall. Here are the steps:
1. Remove Loose Paint
Use a paint scraper to remove any paint chips, peels, or blisters. Feather the edges of existing paint. Wear safety goggles, gloves, and a mask to avoid dust and debris.
2. Wash the Surface
Use TSP substitute cleaner and water to clean the wall. This removes grease, oil, chalky paint residue, and other contaminants. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.
3. Sand the Surface
Lightly sand the surface to dull any remaining glossy areas and create a roughened profile for paint adhesion. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.
4. Spot Prime
Apply primer to any bare wood, metal, or drywall that was exposed during paint removal. Use the appropriate primer for each surface type.
5. Apply Painter’s Tape
Run blue painter’s tape around the perimeter of the wall, as well as around trim, windows, and doors. This protects these surfaces from paint splatter.
6. Prime the Entire Surface
Before painting, apply a high-quality primer or bonding primer to the entire surface. This helps the new paint adhere tightly.
Choosing the Right Paint and Tools
Use high-quality acrylic latex paint in a satin, eggshell, or semi-gloss sheen. Avoid flat paints, which are more prone to peeling. Apply with a quality nylon/polyester brush for best coverage and adhesion.
Top Tips for Adhesion
– Only apply paint when temperatures are between 50-90°F
– Do not paint in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces
– Allow proper drying time between coats
– Use a primer even if the new paint is supposed to be self-priming
– Caulk gaps and cracks before painting
How Many Coats of Paint on a Peeling Wall?
It’s best to apply at least two coats when repainting a wall that was peeling. The first coat acts as the primer and fills the porous surface. The second coat provides an even, opaque and durable finish coat.
For severe cases of peeling, a third coat may be warranted to ensure proper coverage and protection.
Can You Use Oil-Based Paint Over Latex?
While latex paint and oil-based paints (like alkyds) are incompatible going on top of each other, you can safely apply an oil-based paint over existing latex paint. The key is proper preparation by lightly sanding before painting. This allows the oil paint to grip the surface.
How Long Should Primer Dry Before Painting?
Primer needs sufficient time to fully dry and cure before applying paint. Recommended drying times:
| Primer Type | Dry Time |
| Latex primer | 2 hours |
| Oil-based primer | 6-8 hours |
Adding a second coat extends the drying time needed. Cooler temperatures also extend the curing process. Test primer by touching it—when ready for paint, it should feel dry and smooth.
Will New Paint Adhere to Old Oil-Based Paint?
For the best adhesion over existing oil paints, scuff sand the surface before priming and painting. This helps create a surface profile for the new paint to grip. You should also spot prime any bare wood or metal before applying at least two new coats of acrylic latex paint. The combination of scuff sanding, priming, and a compatible new paint will allow good adhesion.
Should I Use Primer Before Painting Interior Walls?
Primer is highly recommended before painting interior walls, especially if you are changing colors dramatically or painting over an older paint that may be weakening. The benefits of priming include:
– Seals porous drywall and creates a unified surface
– Blocks stains from bleeding through new paint
– Provides enhanced adhesion and hardness for the finish coat
– Makes for more even application and appearance of topcoat paint
A high quality acrylic primer is ideal for preparing interior walls before painting.
Conclusion
Painting over a peeling wall without proper prep will likely lead to continued peeling of the new paint job. To ensure paint properly adheres for years to come, you need to thoroughly clean, scrape, sand, prime, and caulk the surface first. Use high quality acrylic latex paint in a satin or eggshell sheen and apply two coats. With diligent surface prep and application, even a badly peeling wall can be given fresh and durable new life with paint.