Why Paint Peels and How to Prevent It
Peeling paint is more than just an eyesore. It’s often the first visible sign that your home’s protective barrier is breaking down, which can lead to moisture intrusion, wood rot, and costly repairs. Whether it's happening on siding, trim, or interior walls, understanding why paint peels—and how to stop it—is key to maintaining the integrity and appearance of your home.
Here’s a closer look at the causes of peeling paint and how to prevent it from happening again.
Common Causes of Peeling Paint
1. Poor Surface Preparation
Paint adhesion depends on the surface beneath it. If dirt, dust, oils, old paint, or moisture are present when paint is applied, the new layer won’t bond properly. This often leads to premature peeling, flaking, or bubbling.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, improper prep is one of the leading causes of paint failure (HUD, 2020).
2. Moisture Issues
Excess moisture behind or beneath paint is one of the most common reasons it begins to peel. This can result from:
Leaky gutters or downspouts
Interior condensation
Poor ventilation
Unsealed gaps around windows and doors
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that moisture control is essential for long-term paint durability (EPA, 2017).
3. Incompatible or Low-Quality Paint
Not all paints are created equal. Using interior paint on an exterior surface, applying latex over oil-based paint without proper priming, or choosing low-quality products with weak binders can all lead to peeling.
4. Painting Over Damp or Hot Surfaces
Painting on a surface that’s too cold, too hot, or still wet can cause the paint film to dry improperly or fail to bond. This is especially important in areas like New England where temperature and humidity can change rapidly.
5. Age and Natural Wear
Even with the best preparation and products, paint eventually wears out. Over time, UV rays, moisture, and temperature shifts break down the film, causing it to crack and peel.
How to Prevent Peeling Paint
1. Start with Thorough Surface Prep
Clean the surface to remove dust, mold, mildew, and grease
Scrape away loose or flaking paint
Sand to create a smooth, bondable surface
Repair any damaged areas or soft wood
Proper preparation is the most important step in preventing failure. Skipping it to save time often results in more time and money spent down the road.
2. Use High-Quality Primer and Paint
Always use a primer appropriate for the surface and conditions. A bonding primer helps ensure proper adhesion, especially when painting over glossy or previously painted surfaces. Follow with high-quality, weather-rated paint for long-lasting results.
3. Apply Paint Under the Right Conditions
Avoid painting in direct sunlight, rain, or extreme temperatures. The ideal window for exterior painting is a dry, mild day with temperatures between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and low humidity.
4. Address Moisture Problems Early
Make sure gutters are working properly, caulking is intact, and there is no trapped moisture in walls or siding. Inside, use ventilation fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce humidity.
5. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Inspect your painted surfaces annually for signs of wear or cracking. Touch up small areas before they worsen. A proactive approach can extend the life of your paint job by several years.
Trust the Process. Trust the Professionals.
At Seacoast Brushworks, we never cut corners when it comes to prep. Every job starts with a clean, dry, properly prepared surface and ends with top-tier products applied under the right conditions. That is how we deliver paint jobs that last—not just look good for one season.
If you're seeing signs of peeling, don’t wait until damage sets in. Contact us to assess the cause and create a long-lasting solution tailored to your home.
References:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2020). Maintaining your home. https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/DOC_20323.PDF
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2017). Moisture control guidance for building design, construction and maintenance. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-08/documents/moisture-control.pdf
