Peeling paint can ruin the look of exterior or interior painting and affect the look of a building. It may be a signal of serious issues, such as water damage, so don’t ignore areas that are bubbling, flaking, or peeling. Here are some causes of peeling paint.

Why Your Paint May Be Peeling

1. Water Damage

The main reason paint will peel is from water, condensation, or humidity. When water has seeped through the paint, it will bubble and then separate and flake away from the surface beneath. A leak, either interior or exterior, continuous splashes from a faucet, or faulty gutters and flashings can lead to peeling paint. Poorly ventilated rooms may exhibit peeling paint as a result of condensation, which leads to mold. High humidity can lead to moisture buildup on the walls that will eventually cause the paint to peel. 

2. Painting Surfaces Not Properly Prepped

A professional painting service should properly prepare any surface they paint. The area to be painted should be clean and free from moisture, oil, dirt, and dust. Primer is necessary on most surfaces to allow the paint to have a smooth, even application and adhere properly. 

3. The Wrong Type of Paint Was Used

Not all paints work on all surfaces. Poorly cured woods or finished, glossy surfaces may not allow the paint to adhere to the surface, causing streaks, flakes, and an overall poor application.

Epoxy and polyurethane are examples of surface treatments that may interact negatively with paint. Concrete and steel cause chemical breakdowns in oil-based paints, leading to the paint degrading over time. Latex paint applied over an older oil-based layer may not wear well, as these types of paints are incompatible. Low quality paints with a lot of calcimine will peel and flake faster.

4. Too Many Layers

Surfaces with several coats may not be worth painting again, as the heaviness of the accumulated layers will cause the paint to flake off. In older buildings, it may be necessary to sand down multiple layers before a new interior painting can be applied.

5. Exposure to Corrosive Substances, Intense Heat, or Light

Paint may crack and peel if it’s exposed to corrosive substances such as acidic chemicals or household bleach. Intense sunlight or heat may also cause premature bubbling and cracking of paint. Latex paints expand and contract when exposed to heat, which weakens the adhesive bonds.

If you need new exterior or interior painting on the islands, contact JD Painting & Decorating in Wailuku and Lihue. These experienced painting professionals offer services for commercial clients on Maui, Oahu, the Big Island, and Kauai. With over 30 years of experience, they’ll execute your project safely, professionally, and within budget. Call (808) 841-7100 for an estimate or visit them online to see a full range of services.