Peeling Paint

As a Property Manager, I am asked all kinds of maintenance questions, including why paint peels in big patches. The short answer is that the paint can no longer grip to the surface.

Some of the reasons for peeling paint are:

Age

Like all things in life, paint does not last forever. This is the most simple of causes of peeling paint. Your painter can give you an idea if your paint is near the end of its life.

While moisture and water is the most common cause of peeling paint the reverse situation can also be a cause for paint to peel. Similar to skin, when not moisturised and the environment is harsh e.g. windy, dry or cold, your skin or paint can crack.

Water making its way under the paint will cause it to separate from the surface. Most peeling paint will occur in wet areas such as the laundry, kitchen and bathroom. Other reasons may include leaks or excessive humidity.

No prep work prior to painting

Before painting, it is imperative to clean the area with sugar soap (or simular) and allow the area to dry thoroughly. The area should then be primed to help the paint to adhere to the surface.

When using one type of paint over a different type of paint, the long term affect can be that the paint will no longer adhere and the paint will peel. Consult your paint specialist before layering paint.

Clean and prepare surfaces well prior to painting

1. Identify problem areas and fix these before painting
2. Choosing the correct type of paint for the surface
3. Identify previously painted areas and ensure more layering will not cause the paint to peel and if so prepare as necessary