If you’ve ever noticed peeling paint in your home, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common painting problems homeowners face. Peeling paint can happen on both interior and exterior surfaces, and it’s usually a sign that something went wrong during the painting process. Whether you’re new to wall painting or just trying to figure out why your paint isn’t lasting, there are a few key mistakes that often lead to peeling paint. Let’s take a look at the top 5 mistakes that can cause paint to peel, and how to avoid them.
Peeling paint causes
1. Not priming the surface
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when painting is skipping the primer. It might seem like an extra, unnecessary step, but primer is essential for getting that paint to stick. Without it, the paint can’t properly bond to the surface, and that’s when you’ll start to notice peeling paint.
Primer acts like a bonding agent that prepares the surface for paint. If you’re painting a wall that has never been painted before, or if you’re painting over a darker colour with a lighter one, skipping the primer can lead to peeling paint. Without primer, the paint doesn’t have a strong foundation to cling to, especially on rough or porous surfaces. Over time, this causes the paint to lift off, resulting in peeling paint.
Tip: Always apply a good quality primer before painting, especially if you’re working with new walls or have a surface that might be difficult to paint on. It’s the key to making sure your paint sticks and stays put for longer.
2. Painting over dirty or oily surfaces
Another common mistake that causes peeling paint is painting over a dirty or oily surface. If the surface you’re painting is covered in dust, grease, or other debris, the paint won’t adhere properly, which can lead to peeling paint down the track.
Before you even think about painting, it’s crucial to clean the surface thoroughly. Dust, dirt, grease, or even fingerprints can stop the paint from sticking and cause peeling paint within weeks or months of applying it. Kitchen walls are especially prone to grease buildup, so make sure to clean those thoroughly before grabbing your paintbrush.
Tip: Clean surfaces using warm soapy water, or if needed, a degreaser for particularly greasy areas. Once the surface is clean, let it dry completely before you start painting.
3. Painting in the wrong weather conditions
The weather plays a huge role in how well paint adheres and dries. One of the worst mistakes you can make is painting when the conditions aren’t right. Extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can mess with the paint’s drying process and cause peeling paint.
In cold weather, the paint can take too long to dry, leading to uneven application and peeling paint later on. On the other hand, if it’s too hot, the paint can dry too quickly, causing cracks and peeling paint before it even has a chance to set. Humidity is another factor. High humidity can trap moisture in the paint, leading to peeling paint when it finally dries.
Tip: Check the weather forecast before painting. For interior painting, you should aim for a temperature of around 18-25°C. For exterior painting, aim for a dry, calm day with temperatures between 10-30°C. It’s best to avoid painting during heavy rain or windy days.
4. Applying too many coats too quickly
Sometimes, when people are painting, they get excited about finishing the job, and they rush it. One of the biggest mistakes that lead to peeling paint is applying too many coats of paint without allowing the previous layers to dry fully. When you pile coat after coat on too quickly, the paint can trap moisture underneath, preventing proper drying. This trapped moisture can cause peeling paint once it starts to dry and cure.
Another issue with applying paint too fast is that you might not give each coat enough time to bond with the previous one, which can lead to peeling paint once the paint starts to wear.
Tip: Always allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times, and make sure to avoid layering paint too quickly. Patience is key to ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish.
5. Using low-quality paint or tools
This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to make the mistake of using cheap paint or low-quality brushes and rollers. Low-quality paints don’t have the same durability or adhesion as high-quality paints, and this can lead to peeling paint in a short amount of time. If the paint doesn’t have a good binder or enough pigment, it’s more likely to chip and peel.
Low-quality brushes and rollers can also leave behind uneven surfaces, which not only makes the job look bad but can also cause peeling paint because the paint application isn’t smooth or even.
Tip: Invest in a good quality paint that’s right for the job. And make sure to use high-quality brushes and rollers that are suitable for the type of paint you’re using. It’s worth spending a little extra money for better tools that will give you a better, longer-lasting finish.
If you’re dealing with peeling paint, chances are it’s because one or more of these mistakes were made during your painting project. But don’t worry, it’s easy to fix. By avoiding these common mistakes—like not priming, painting over dirty surfaces, or applying paint in the wrong weather—you can ensure your paint job stays put and doesn’t peel off over time.
Remember, peeling paint is often a sign that something went wrong during the painting process, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you can fix it and prevent it from happening again. So next time you’re getting ready to paint, keep these tips in mind and avoid the common mistakes that lead to peeling paint. If you’re not sure where to start or if you need some help, consider calling in the professionals. At AAA Fast Plastering, we know all about dealing with peeling paint and making sure your walls stay fresh and beautiful.