Remember these tips so you can successfully paint over old interior paint.
Painting over old interior paint can refresh your home and give any room a brand-new look. However, it requires proper preparation and techniques to achieve smooth, long-lasting results. Follow these tips from Columbia Paint Company to ensure your project is a success.
Assess the Old Paint
Before starting, examine the condition of the old paint. Look for cracks, peeling, stains, or mold. If the paint is peeling, you’ll need to scrape it off and sand the surface to create a smooth base. Stains and mold should be cleaned thoroughly to prevent them from bleeding through the new paint.
Clean the Walls
Dirt, dust, and grease can prevent new paint from adhering properly. Wash the walls with a mild detergent and water, then let them dry completely. For kitchens and bathrooms, consider a degreaser to remove stubborn residue.
Repair and Sand the Surface
Fill any holes or cracks with spackle or joint compound, then sand the area until smooth. Sanding also helps create a slightly rough surface, which makes it easier for the new paint to stick. Use fine-grit sandpaper for a uniform finish.
Prime the Walls
Primer is essential when painting over old interior paint, especially if:
- The old paint is dark, and you’re using a lighter color.
- The surface has been patched or repaired.
- The walls have stains or discoloration.
Choose a high-quality primer that suits your paint type (latex or oil-based). Apply one or two coats, depending on the condition of the old paint.
Choose the Right Paint
Match your new paint to the type of old paint (latex over latex or oil-based over oil-based). If you’re unsure of the old paint type, test a small area by wiping it with rubbing alcohol. If paint comes off, it’s latex; if not, it’s oil-based.
For most interiors, latex paint is a durable, low-VOC option that’s easy to work with.
Use Proper Painting Techniques
- Cut In: Start by painting along the edges and corners with a brush.
- Roll the Paint: Use a roller for the larger areas, ensuring even coverage. Work in small sections, overlapping each stroke.
- Apply Multiple Coats: One coat may not be enough to cover the old paint completely. Let the first coat dry before applying a second to achieve the desired color and finish.
Don’t Forget Cleanup
After painting, remove painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly wet to prevent peeling. Wash your brushes and rollers immediately, and store any leftover paint in a sealed container for future touch-ups.
Painting over old interior paint is an affordable way to transform your space, but preparation is key to a flawless finish. By cleaning, repairing, priming, and using the right techniques, you’ll ensure a professional-quality result that lasts for years.
NEW LOCATIONS! VISIT THE US AND EXPLORE!
We’ve moved from the Dobbin Road location to our new, roomy location just down the road:
Columbia Paint and Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
6822 Oak Hall Lane, Suite C2, Columbia, MD 21045
443-319-4001
Expect the same one-stop shopping for all your decorating needs. We are a full-service Benjamin Moore dealer offering the best quality decorating products at the best prices. We have an ample supply of paint and paint supplies, wallcoverings, custom window treatments, fabrics, and now NEW flooring selections from Kaleen Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Tile samples.
And, of course, the same excellent customer service, knowledge, and customer satisfaction that you’ve come to expect.
ANNOUNCING OUR SECOND LOCATION:
Clarksville Paint & Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
12447 Clarksville Pike, Suite 1A, Clarksville, MD