Painting is a process with many benefits other than giving an appealing look to the product. It is a resource-intensive, time-consuming process; hence people do not change it unless there is a dire need for renovations. However, people prefer painting once in a couple of years.
However, peeling paint is one of the biggest problems associated with paint jobs. Poor protection to the surface leads to moisture accumulation, and water penetration is one of the most significant issues identified due to peeling paint apart from the shabby look.
Protect the surface from water: Water can break or weaken the bonds between the molecules of paint, thus causing cracks amidst them. In turn, the layers separate, detach from the surface and peel off. The surfaces should be coated with sealants that prevent water and other similar substances from getting in touch with the newly painted surface. The damaged roofs or any other areas that may pass on the water to the painted surface must be repaired on a priority basis. In case of blistering, it is advised to cut open the blisters and remove the peeling paint.
Check on Humidity and Condensation: Humidity and Condensation around the painted surfaces can create moisture, leading to the new coat's detachment from the surface. Humidity can also trigger mould growth, which may deteriorate the old coats. To control humidity, the windows can be kept open during humid weather. An air-conditioned room can help to fight these conditions.
Proper Pre-Painting activities: Paint tends to peel off from areas like cracks or holes which are not adequately prepared for painting. The surface to be painted must be made even and uniform by using a patching material. It must also be ensured to remove the old coats using a scraper before putting on a new coat without causing much damage to the surface. The holes and cracks must be refilled with a suitable material before painting. Most professionals recommend the application of a primer to make the surface suitable for painting. It is also advised to wash the surface thoroughly and let it dry before applying the primer.
Ensure the surface is clean before Painting: Paints tend to peel off if applied to a dirty surface. The surface must be cleaned thoroughly using an electric cleaner, damp cloth, or sandpaper before painting. Various cleaning solutions are also available in the market that can kill mould spores preventing mould growth and promoting adhesion between the molecules of paint.
Protect the Painted surface from direct sunlight or Heat: Heat accelerates the process of drying paint, preventing the molecules of paints from forming strong bonds. Additionally, intense heat in the form of direct sunlight may even make the paint fragile and elastic, thus reducing its durability. The newly painted surface should be kept under shade away from direct sunlight.
Always use the Right Products: Different surfaces come with different requirements; a concrete surface will demand a different paint, and a wooden surface will require a different paint. A wrong product, irrespective of paint or primer, will lead to a peeling issue. Hence the paint and primers must be chosen wisely.
Always employ the Right Method: Poor painting practices are one of the major causes of paint peeling. Applying thin layers or using the wrong brushes are a few of the practices that contribute to this problem. A rough concrete surface might require a brush or roller with thick bristles, but a soft surface might need oil-based paint with a brush of tiny bristles. Ideally, two or three layers of paints are recommended after a layer of primer. It must also be ensured that the successive coat must be applied only if the last coat has dried completely. However, it is also found that too much thickness can also lead to peeling.
Always keep Corrosive substances away from painted surfaces: A substance with strong acids or bases may corrode the paints leading to peeling of the layers. Hence the corrosive materials must be kept away from the painted surface.
Contact Metrowest Corporation for top interior and exterior painting services. Our services are based in MA & CT.