We all have that one family member or friend who keeps telling the same bad joke over and over, and over again. As soon as they start, it’s an instant cringe. Peeling paint does that for us—but luckily, we know just how to fix it.
Much like your uncle’s eye-roll–inducing joke, peeling paint is the gift that won’t stop giving. That’s why we’re unraveling the mystery behind how to fix peeling paint—and why it’s best left to the professionals. As for that joke? Sorry, you’re on your own.
Scraping Back the Layers on the Origins of Peeling Paint
Picture this: your freshly painted wall is gleaming. But then, all of a sudden, it starts to peel. What gives? Well, dear readers, sometimes you can blame Mother Nature. But it could just as easily be the painter’s fault. When it comes to peeling paint, knowing the cause can help you figure out how to fix it.
Environmental factors such as sunlight, humidity, and temperature can turn your paint job into a peeling frenzy. If a scorching sun or arid conditions cause your paint to dry too quickly, trouble brews. You see, paint bonds to surfaces through a chemical process. But if it dries too fast, it won’t cure properly.
Too much moisture can also spoil your paint party. If condensation sneaks its way through your wall, it can sabotage the bond between the paint and the surface.
What’s more, if the chemicals in your paint have expired, they can mess with the curing process. Signs of this drama include blotches and flaking. Basically, it’s your paint’s way of throwing a tantrum.
The type of paint can cause peeling as well. Paints come in different bases—oil and latex, for example—and they don’t mix. If you blend them, expect peeling as your reward. Too many layers of paint can also spell disaster. As tempting as it is to slap on a new coat without scraping the old one off, this shortcut can make your paint lose its grip.
Of course, it all starts with your prep. If you didn't properly clean and prime your surface before painting it, don’t expect your beautiful coat of paint to stick around. It’s all about that initial connection: no prep, no commitment from the paint.
Put the “Peel” in “Appealing” by Using Pros To Cure Your Paint Peeling Woes
Before you start your DIY painting project, let’s peel back the layers of complexity around how to fix those pesky peeling paint problems. Spoiler alert: It’s not all rainbows and roller brushes.
Most of us aren’t dealing with brand-new houses. If your residence is pushing 40 years or more, you might be dealing with layers of paint that contain lead. That’s a whole can of toxic worms you don’t want to open. Stripping old lead-based paint is a high-risk endeavor best left to the pros. They take safety precautions and have the right equipment to ensure a risk-free experience that DIYers simply can’t match.
But that’s just the tip of the paint-splattered iceberg. Professionals know how to select the perfect type of paint for your specific surface. They’re also well-versed in the conditions required for it to cure properly. Painting is both a science and an art. The pros know the secret sauce of primers and preparation, setting the stage for a flawless finish.
In addition, hiring the pros can save you heaps of time. Painting a room takes longer than you think. What might seem like a quick weekend project can easily turn into a never-ending saga of tape, spills, and frustration. But when you enlist the help of experts, your precious time is saved, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.
Oh, and did we mention the value added to your home? A professionally painted home can boost its market worth. A DIY splatter job? Not so much. So, while you may be tempted to pull out your paint roller, remember that there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. With our Procoat process, peeling paint is something you’ll never need to know how to fix again.
From Peeling to Perfection: Quick Tips To Help Preserve Your Paint
Preserving the beauty of your interior paint isn’t rocket science, but you need to know a bit more than just how to fix some peeling. Follow these practical tips to ensure your paint stays pristine for years to come.
Gently Wash High-Traffic Areas: Gloss and semi-gloss paint finishes are washable, making them perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. But for flat and satin paint finishes, exercise caution. Test a small, inconspicuous spot to see if the paint holds up when washed. If you notice any chalky residue on your sponge, go easy on the scrubbing.
Dust It Off: Grab a microfiber dust cloth or use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to gently remove dust and dirt from your walls. Regular dusting keeps your paint looking fresh.
Touch-Up Issues as They Arise: Don’t let minor imperfections like chips or nail holes fester. Touch them up promptly with matching paint to prevent them from becoming paint-peeling problems down the road.
Invest in Quality Paints: One of the best ways to ensure a long-lasting paint job is to start with the right paint. Invest in high-quality paints that offer durability and resistance to mildew, mold, and, yes, peeling.
Store Extra Paint Properly: Don’t just toss that extra paint in the garage. Store it at room temperature and label it by room and date. Having touch-up paint on hand will be a lifesaver when the need for repairs or touch-ups arises.
Kindness Without Borders: Worldwide Feel-Good Gems We Had to Share
In a heartwarming tale reminiscent of a fairy tale, a missing toddler was found peacefully sleeping in the woods after a remarkable three-mile barefoot adventure. She was even using her loyal dog as a makeshift pillow! She worried her family sick for a few hours, but thankfully, she was found safely.
Actually, a forest meander sounds pretty nice. We’ll be napping among toadstools and fairy lights until we get the call to fix some peeling paint.
When you’re ready to chat, you’ll find our contact info at the bottom of this page. Or simply request a quote for your project now. We have cell service in the forest, so we promise to get back to you ASAP!
Joke of the Week: A grasshopper walks into a bar. The bartender says, “Hey we have a drink named after you!” The grasshopper says, “You have a drink named Steve?!”