Over time, walls that were once smooth and pristine can develop unsightly cracks, peeling, or flaking paint. Whether it’s due to humidity, wear and tear, or poor surface preparation, peeling or cracked paint is a common issue in many homes. While it might seem like a daunting task, repairing peeling or cracked paint is actually a straightforward process that can restore your walls to their former glory.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to fix peeling or cracked paint on your walls, helping you achieve a smooth, flawless finish once again.

1. Assess the Damage

Before you start repairing peeling or cracked paint, it’s essential to assess the extent of the damage. If the peeling is localized to small areas or cracks, it will be easy to fix. However, if the damage is widespread, you might need to address underlying issues before proceeding.

• Check for moisture or mold: Peeling paint can sometimes be a sign of a moisture problem, especially in areas like bathrooms or basements. If you notice mold or signs of water damage, it’s crucial to address the source of the moisture before painting.
• Look for surface damage: If the wall has deep cracks, holes, or gouges, they will need to be repaired before painting.

Pro tip: If the paint has peeled off in large sections or the damage is extensive, you may need to repaint the entire wall for a more uniform and long-lasting result.

2. Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Once you’ve assessed the damage, gather the necessary tools and materials for the job. You’ll need:

• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect your floor and furniture.
• A scraper or putty knife to remove peeling or cracked paint.
• Sandpaper (preferably medium-grit or fine-grit) to smooth the surface.
• A patching compound or spackle for filling in holes or deep cracks.
• Primer to ensure better paint adhesion and prevent future peeling.
• Paint (the same color and finish as the original or new color).
• Paintbrushes or rollers for application.

3. Prepare the Area

Start by preparing the room for the repair work:

• Clear the area: Move furniture or cover it with drop cloths. Use plastic sheeting to protect the floor from paint splatters.
• Ensure good ventilation: Open windows or use fans to ensure proper airflow, especially if you’re working with strong-smelling products like primer or paint.

4. Remove Peeling or Cracked Paint

Use a scraper or putty knife to gently scrape off the peeling or cracked paint. Be careful not to damage the drywall or surface underneath. If the peeling is widespread, you may need to use a larger scraper or a wire brush to get the job done.

• Scrape away all loose paint: Make sure to remove all the peeling paint until you reach a solid, adhered layer. Any remaining loose paint can cause the new paint to peel again.
• Work in small sections: Start with one area at a time to avoid overwhelming yourself with too much surface to manage.

5. Smooth and Sand the Surface

After you’ve removed all the peeling paint, it’s time to smooth the surface. Use sandpaper to lightly sand the area, removing any rough patches and giving the surface a smooth, even texture.

• Sand the edges: Pay special attention to the edges where the paint has peeled. Sand them down to create a seamless transition between the exposed wall and the painted areas.
• Use fine-grit sandpaper: For best results, use medium-grit (120-150) sandpaper for rough areas and fine-grit (220) sandpaper to smooth out the entire surface.

Once you’re done sanding, wipe the wall with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Allow the surface to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

6. Repair Holes and Cracks

If you notice any holes or cracks in the wall, it’s essential to repair them before painting. Use a spackling compound or patching compound to fill in the gaps.

• Fill the holes: Apply the patching compound with a putty knife, pressing it into the hole or crack. Smooth the surface so that it’s level with the surrounding wall.
• Allow the compound to dry: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times. Once it’s dry, sand the patched areas to smooth them out and blend them with the rest of the wall.

Pro tip: For larger cracks, you may need to use joint compound and a drywall tape or mesh to ensure the repair is solid.

7. Prime the Surface

Once the wall is smooth and all repairs are complete, it’s time to apply a coat of primer. Primer is especially important if you’ve patched holes, sanded the surface, or are transitioning from a dark color to a lighter one.

• Apply a coat of primer: Use a brush or roller to apply a thin, even coat of primer to the wall. Focus on the areas that had peeling paint, as primer will help seal and stabilize the surface.
• Allow the primer to dry: Follow the instructions on the primer can for drying times. Typically, primer takes a few hours to dry, but you may need to wait longer depending on humidity and temperature.

Pro tip: Use a stain-blocking primer if you’re dealing with water stains, smoke damage, or other discoloration.

8. Repaint the Wall

Once the primer has dried, you’re ready to apply the final coat of paint.

• Choose the right paint: Use the same type of paint (matte, satin, gloss, etc.) that was originally used or select a new finish if you want a fresh look.
• Apply a thin coat: Start painting from the top and work your way down. Apply a thin coat of paint, and be sure to smooth it out as you go to avoid drips or streaks. Let the first coat dry before applying a second coat if necessary.
• Allow the paint to dry completely: Make sure the paint is fully dried before touching or moving furniture back into the room.

Pro tip: Use a paintbrush for edges and corners and a roller for larger areas to ensure even coverage and a smooth finish.

9. Maintain Your Walls

Once you’ve repaired and repainted your walls, maintaining them is key to preventing further damage. Regularly clean your walls with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt, and be proactive about fixing small cracks or chips before they become larger issues.

Pro tip: Keep some of your leftover paint on hand for touch-ups in the future. This will help you fix any small issues quickly and maintain the fresh look of your walls.

Conclusion: A Fresh Look for Your Walls

Fixing peeling or cracked paint on your walls is a manageable DIY project that can breathe new life into your home. By following the right steps—removing loose paint, sanding the surface, repairing damage, priming, and repainting—you can restore the look and feel of your walls with a fresh, flawless finish. With just a little time and effort, your walls will look as good as new, and you’ll enjoy the transformation for years to come.