Target the root cause of the problem
Peeling paint is the symptom of a deeper issue. Rather than simply getting rid of it and applying another coat, you should identify the root cause and treat that first. Shoddy workmanship, moisture buildup and painting in bad weather conditions are just a few of the factors that cause peeling paint. Only when you’ve treated the underlying issue can you prepare and repaint the surface.
We often find this affecting schools and other large-scale property precincts, where it can be tough to stay ahead of regular maintenance. That's why we developed a guide to help set up a building maintenance programme that ensures all work gets done on time, to ensure a safe environment and save on bigger, avoidable repairs. We wrote it for schools, but no matter where you are and what building you're looking after, you'll find a host of tips relevant to your needs. Click the button below and download your free copy.
Scrape away loose paint
To treat peeling paint effectively, remove any loose paint from the affected areas. You can use a scraper to get rid of the offending strips, and follow that up with a wire brush to remove any remnants.
Smoothen the walls with sandpaper
The grit of your sandpaper should be determined by the surface you’re scrubbing. When it comes to wood surfaces, you should ideally use three different types — ranging from coarse to medium-coarse to medium — to ensure that you don’t damage the wood during sanding. If you’re attempting to remove a thick layer of paint on masonry, select sandpaper with a grade of P40 to P80 to remove the multiple layers of paint and primer. While you can use a paint stripper to hasten the process, it means less accuracy, extra taping and more mess.
Prime the surface properly
The golden rule: prime your surface before you paint! A primer is the undercoat that seals your wall’s surface and stops your paint from being absorbed by the masonry. It’s also your first line of defence against many of the problems that cause peeling paint. As with all products you purchase for painting and maintenance, your primer must be of a high quality — anything less will deteriorate more quickly and negate that fresh coat of paint. Priming your surfaces is also an effective means of ensuring your building’s general painting and maintenance is lasting.
Prevent moisture from building up
Paint is more likely to peel if it’s on a surface that has an underlying moisture problem. This causes the affected area to swell up, which in turn cracks the paint and makes it come away in ragged strips. Using high quality products to prime the wall before painting and administering correct painting techniques can combat this build-up and keep your paint job looking pristine.
Avoid adverse weather conditions
This seems pretty obvious, right? But you’d be surprised by how many do-it-yourselfers go out on a limb and paint when the weather isn’t playing nice. Paint will struggle to bind in temperatures that are too high or low. This means that your beautiful fresh coat of paint is more likely to crack and peel. Don’t paint in the sun and choose days that look to be on the shady side. And — obviously — don’t even think about painting on a windy or rainy day!
Go for reputation and experience over quick-fixes
Your building’s appearance will make a lasting impression on prospective customers, tenants or school parents — so why not make it a positive one?
First Response Maintenance Solutions is a licensed, cost-effective, all-in-one painting and maintenance company operating in Queensland and New South Wales. We specialise in painting, refurbishment, electrics, plumbing, carpentry and roofing for all types of commercial, residential, and government buildings. To learn why a high-quality painting and maintenance plan that’s administered by an expert is crucial for all enterprises and industries, download our guide.
If you’re ready to discuss your painting and maintenance options, schedule a site assessment with one of our specialists now.