Peeling Paint in the Bathroom: What Do You Do?

The most common places you might see peeling paint are on bathroom walls and kitchen walls. That’s because these are the areas of the home with the most moisture in the air, and moisture is more often than not the culprit behind peeling paint. While fans that vent outside and adequate ventilation can go a long way toward preventing peeling paint, paint can still peel. Once it does it becomes a prime breeding ground for mildew and bacteria. Worse, it can trap even more moisture doing further damage.

Can you repair peeling paint in the bathroom? The easy answer is yes.

First chipped paint has to be removed completely using a scraper. Nothing but firmly adhered paint should be left behind. Next, it’s time to patch the uneven surface using thing layers of a quick-setting patching compound. Once it’s dry, a layer of all-purpose drywall compound is the finishing touch. This will need to be sanded smooth – preferably with a shop vacuum outfitted with a dust collection bag and a sanding attachment.

Finally, it’s time to prime and paint. Paints specifically marked for use in bathroom is a good choice because it will stand up to the humidity.

As to whether you should repair peeling paint on your own – whether in the bathroom or anywhere else – the answer depends on your comfort level with the project. Are you handy with tools and paint? Then it will likely be a simple project.

But if you’re new to home maintenance or you suspect your home may have lead paint then repairing peeling paint is a job best left to the pros.

This story originally appeared in our monthly newsletter, Prime Time by Jerry Enos Painting company in Massachusetts – to subscribe, contact us!

Categorised in: How-Tos, Interior painting