When it comes to interior painting projects, the process is often far more complex and labour intensive than most people think. This is especially true for home interiors that have not been painted for a while, as old paint requires additional work and prep to ensure proper paint adhesion and coverage. As a leading provider of interior painting solutions for every type of home, the team at Dunbar Painting knows how difficult it can be to deal with old paint. That is why we have compiled a list of tips for painting over old interior paint to help you determine if this project is something you can complete yourself or if it is best left to a professional.
Learn how to prevent paint streaks on your walls.
4 Steps to Paint Over Old Interior Paint
When painting over old interior paint, you will need to complete the following steps to ensure optimal results:
1. Clean Each Surface You Wish to Paint
Before applying paint to any surface, it should be thoroughly cleaned. For extremely old paint, you may need to use a chemical degreaser to remove extremely old dirt or grime. Failure to remove these substances from your wall can negatively impact adhesion, leading to a low-quality finish that is full of imperfections.
2. Sand the Surface for Better Paint Adhesion
After you have sufficiently cleaned each surface, it is time to scuff sand them. Sanding each surface allows for better paint adhesion, making it well worth the time and effort. To minimize mess, some professionals utilize dustless sanding methods. If you are unable to use this method, you will need to clean up before you apply any primer or paint.
3. Use Primer if There are Stains or Colour Changes
Primer is a vital yet sometimes overlooked element for painting projects of all sizes. If you are painting over extremely old paint, you will likely need to apply primer first. This is especially true if you are painting over stains or if you will be changing the colour of your walls. Without primer, stains or old colours can show through the new paint, so be sure to take the time to apply it.
4. Choose High-Quality Paint Products
To ensure optimal results for your painting project, it is best to choose high-quality paint products. While you may be tempted to choose cheap brushes, rollers, and paint, this will only decrease the quality of the final result. To put it another way, there is a reason that professionals only use high-quality products for the work they perform.
To learn more about our interior painting solutions or to discuss the details of your project, get in touch with the team at Dunbar Painting. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your project.