Paint doesn't want to stick to walls
#1
06-05-14, 02:29 PM
Paint doesn't want to stick to walls
We bought an older house and are having a terrible time painting the walls. Doesn't matter what room or what floor of the house. When we put paint on the walls it separates and/or wipes off as we are rolling it on. We have used different primers and different brands of paint. It doesn't matter. I have even painted a room twice and every time I go thru the same nightmare. I have to put an average of 3-4 coats of paint, not counting the primer, before the walls are completely covered. I have one room where the paint peals off the wall to the last color. I was told the original paint was latex and that is what I am using. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
#2
06-05-14, 03:11 PM
Group Moderator
Were the previous owners smokers or do you think they used a kerosene heater? Try spray a area on the wall with a grease cutting cleaner (409, greased lightening...) and scrub it with a clean rag. Let the spot dry and try applying a bit of paint and see if there is any difference.
With problem walls I normally prime with oil based Kilz primer. It blocks stains from penetrating and is very good at sticking to most anything.
With problem walls I normally prime with oil based Kilz primer. It blocks stains from penetrating and is very good at sticking to most anything.
#3
06-05-14, 03:12 PM
Super Moderator
Have to ask, were the prior owners smokers? I've seen this a few times when that was an issue.
Normally you don't need a primer when repainting unless you are trying to cover stains.
To help the Pro's, please tell us your prep work, brand and type of paint, roller nap, and technique.
I know it sounds silly, but most paint failure is due to prep, product, or technique.
EDIT...Ahhh great minds think alike.....
Normally you don't need a primer when repainting unless you are trying to cover stains.
To help the Pro's, please tell us your prep work, brand and type of paint, roller nap, and technique.
I know it sounds silly, but most paint failure is due to prep, product, or technique.
EDIT...Ahhh great minds think alike.....
#4
06-05-14, 05:40 PM
One other issue that may be a factor is that there is a slim chance you may be painting over kalsomine paint. This is an old chalky coating that rubs off with the application of a wet rag. Try that test and if the original finish color transfers to the rag then you will not be able to overcoat it easily without special products or by total removal.
#5
06-06-14, 03:01 AM
How old is the house? what primer are you using? what brand/line of finish paint? what prep [if any] did you do prior to priming/painting?
As noted above, solvent based primers are usually helpful when there are adhesion issues with going over the existing paint. The 2 main reasons for peeling interior paint is contaminants on the wall or applying latex over oil base enamel [needs solvent based primer first]
As noted above, solvent based primers are usually helpful when there are adhesion issues with going over the existing paint. The 2 main reasons for peeling interior paint is contaminants on the wall or applying latex over oil base enamel [needs solvent based primer first]
