Three Causes Of Peeling Or Flaking Interior Paint And How To Address It

Peeling or flaking paint can lower your home's visual appeal and reflect poorly on you as the homeowner. If you are planning an interior repainting project, find out why the current paint is peeling. Doing so will allow you to remedy previous application mistakes and extend the life span of the new product. Below are three causes of peeling or flaking interior house paint and what you can do to achieve a lasting paint job.

Exposure to Moisture

Water damage to interior paint can turn your cozy home into an unappealing and unloved space. Prolonged exposure to moisture causes paint to bubble, peel, and flake. It can also lead to mold growth on the paint, leaving brown or green stains on the wall. The leading causes of moisture damage to interior paint are roof leaks, plumbing leaks, and excess moisture in the air. Before repainting your home, address the underlying moisture problem to extend the life span of the fresh paint. Repair any roof or plumbing leaks and buy a dehumidifier. Also, choose the right paint products for bathrooms, kitchens, and other spaces exposed to high humidity. For example, opt for satin, semi-gloss, or glossy paint with moisture-resistant properties for your bathroom. These paints have a harder finish that can resist moisture, mold, and mildew.

Poor-Quality Paint 

Poor-quality or expired paint is bound to peel or flake off shortly after application. Low-quality paint may have inadequate adhesion and flexibility. As a result, it peels away from the wall faster than a higher-quality product. When exposed to moisture, the paint is likely to bubble and flake. When buying paint for your interior spaces, opt for higher-quality products. These products may cost more, but they adhere perfectly to the wall. They also provide a smoother appearance and last longer than other paints.

Improper Paint Application

Surface preparation is a key factor in achieving a long-lasting paint job. Failure to prepare the surface can cause the paint to adhere poorly, leading to peeling and flaking. The finished product will also have a rough, nonuniform appearance that may affect indoor aesthetics. When planning for an interior paint job, take these steps to prepare your walls:

• Scrape off the old paint
• Clean and dry the walls
• Use gap filler to fill small holes
• Sand off excess filler to create a smooth, even surface

Follow the right application procedures to improve the paint's adhesion. Use a paint primer to create a smooth surface for the paint. Apply thin coats of paint and allow adequate drying time to prevent the paint from chipping.

Are you planning an interior painting project? Beware of the factors mentioned above that can cause the fresh coat of paint to peel or flake. Contact a painting contractor service, such as T. Whitaker Painting, Inc., for more information.