Tips for Removing Peeling Paint

Removing peeling paint from walls, ceilings and other surfaces is necessary before you repaint that surface. However, this is a time consuming process.

Clean the Surface

The first thing you should do is wash the surface, if possible. If you can take the item outside or if it is exterior paint that you are removing, power washing the surface or using a pressure nozzle on a garden hose can do this job quickly. While you do this, you may notice that some of the peeling paint comes off. This only makes your job easier later.

Sand the Surface

Next, you should sand more of the paint off the surface. However, you must not do this if the paint is old. Lead paint, which was common through the 1980s, shouldn't be sanded because sanding the lead releases the particles into the air, which can cause lead poisoning.

Ideally, you will use an orbital sander for this job. However, a belt sander will also work. In either case, choose a fine grit sandpaper, such as 600 or 800 grit. While you are sanding, use circular strokes with the sander and be sure not to press too hard. Grooves and ridges in the wall will be difficult to remove and they will make the paint look odd.

When Sanding Isn't an Option

If the paint is lead or if you don't want the hassle of sanding, you can use paint thinner to remove the paint. Should you choose this method, make sure the ventilation in the room is adequate. The fumes from the paint thinner can cause respiratory problems.

Prep the Surface

Once you have removed the peeling paint, you have to prepare the surface for the new primer and paint. This means you need to remove all dust and residue from the old paint. To do this, mix a solution of trisodium phosphate and water. One gallon of water to one cup of trisodium phosphate is ideal and is enough to cover a large surface. Use a sponge to apply the solution to the wall.

Rinse the Surface

Next, you should rinse the entire surface with water. To do this, get a clean bucket of water and a clean sponge. Reusing the sponge from the trisodium phosphate solution isn't a good idea because there will still be residue on the sponge.

Finally, let the surface dry before you fix any holes or imperfections in the wall. Once this is done, you can apply the primer and then paint to the surface.