Understanding Painting Rules

Painting Over Old Paint: Tips For A Smooth, Professional Finish

29 August 2022

Constance Cunningham

There are many reasons why you'd want to paint over old paint. Maybe you're painting a new home and want to cover up any old colors, or you're painting a rental property and need to make it look fresh for new tenants.

Whatever the reason, painting over old paint can be tricky. But with these tips, you'll be able to achieve a smooth, professional finish that will last for years to come.

Check the Condition of the Old Paint

First, make sure the old paint is in good condition. If it's chipped, cracked, or peeling, you'll need to scrape it off and sand the surface before painting. This will help create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to.

Sometimes, peeling or cracked paint could be a sign of a bigger issue, like water damage. So before you paint over it, inspect the area for any potential problems. This way, you won't have to repaint again in a few months because of an underlying issue.

If the old paint is in good condition, start by cleaning the surface with a degreaser or trisodium phosphate (TSP) solution. This will remove any dirt, grease, or other contaminants that could prevent the new paint from adhering properly. Contaminants on the surface can also cause the new paint to look uneven since they'll act as a barrier between the paint and the surface.

Choose the Right Paint

Next, you'll need to select the right paint. If you're painting over a dark color, you'll want to use a white or light-colored primer to help cover it up. For glossy surfaces, you'll need to use a primer designed for slick surfaces. This will help the new paint adhere properly and prevent it from peeling later on.

Once you've chosen the right primer, select a paint color you love. If you're painting over a light color, you can usually get away with painting the same color or going a shade darker.

But if you're painting over a dark color, you could use a less saturated version of the same color to help balance it out. Just make sure to test the paint color on a small wall section before painting the entire surface.

If you're painting over a textured surface, you'll want to use a paint specifically designed for textured walls. This type of paint will help cover up imperfections and give the surface a smooth, even finish. It also helps to use a thicker paint roller when painting textured walls. This will help prevent the paint from getting caught in the crevices and give you a more even coverage.

Painting over old paint often requires a higher level of precision and skill than painting a new wall. So if you want excellent results, consider hiring a professional to do the job for you. They have the experience and knowledge to properly prep and paint your old walls, ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Contact a painting company to learn more. 

Share  

Search