When you want to paint over painted walls, you need some special painting knowledge. Although painting over already-painted walls may seem simple, it requires careful preparation to ensure a professional finish. Usually, people decide to paint the painted walls because the old paint starts peeling off. This is a bad sign for the aesthetics of modern homes. Therefore, this article explains the process of painting the painted walls most efficiently. 

How to Paint Over Painted Walls?

When you want to reshape the appearance of your house quickly, you may need to repaint walls. Moreover, if the old paint is peeling off your walls, you will need to properly paint over painted walls. 

However, if the walls are already painted, it’s important to take the right steps before applying new paint. Preparing the surface properly and using suitable materials will make a big difference in the final results. PS Painting Singapore highlights the process to paint the already painted surfaces. 

1. Assess the Existing Paint Condition

Before you start the painting process, inspect the condition of the existing paint. If the paint is in good condition, you can start without much preparation. However, if there are damaged areas, you need to fix them first.

To address these issues, take off any loose paint, then sand the surface until it becomes smooth. Fill the cracks with filler and sand again once dry. This will ensure that your new paint sticks properly and the finished surface is smooth.

2. Clean the Walls Thoroughly

Clean walls are a must for even paint finish. Dust particles can disturb the adherence of the paint.  This results in an uneven finish or peeling later on. In Singapore, humidity can cause grime to build up more quickly, so cleaning is critical.

Use a mixture of warm water and detergent to clean the walls. Wipe down the entire surface with a sponge. It is important to pay extra attention to areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Afterward, rinse the walls with clean water to remove the residuals and let them dry completely.

repaint over painted walls

3. Lightly Sand the Surface

Even if the existing paint is in good condition, lightly sand the surface to make it smooth for the new painting project. This helps create a slightly rough surface that allows the new paint to adhere better.

You don’t need to remove all the old paint—just enough to make the wall slightly rough. After that, wipe the walls with a damp cloth to remove the dust.

4. Apply a Quality Primer

A primer is an essential component of the painting projects as it prepares the surfaces for the new painting. This becomes extremely important if your previous paint color is dark. The primer covers the imperfections and makes the surface ready for painting. 

In Singapore, where humidity is high, it’s better to use a primer with mildew-resistant properties, especially in areas like bathrooms and kitchens where water is used abundantly. Apply one or two coats of primer and allow it to dry completely before painting.

5. Select the Right Paint

Selection of the right paint is crucial for a successful repainting project. In Singapore’s humid climate, choose a moisture-resistant paint. This helps prevent issues like peeling, bubbling, or mold growth, which can occur in damp conditions.

If you’re painting over a dark color with a lighter one, use paint with good coverage so you need fewer coats. For areas like kitchens and bathrooms, choose paint that’s easy to clean and resistant to stains.

6. Use Proper Painting Techniques

When you start painting, use the proper techniques to achieve a professional finish. Start by painting the edges and corners with a paintbrush. Afterward, use a roller to paint large areas. PS Painting Singapore who is an expert service provider in HDB painting, room painting, wall painting, interior painting, and exterior painting, suggests that you should work in small sections while painting. 

Moreover, apply the paint in a “W” or “M” pattern, and then fill in the gaps with horizontal strokes. This method ensures even coverage and reduces the chances of roller marks. Apply two coats of paint for the best results. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next.

how to paint over painted walls

7. Allow Proper Drying and Curing Time

Once you’ve finished painting, let the paint dry completely. In Singapore’s humid environment, this may take longer than in drier climates. Do not touch or clean the walls for a few days after painting.

Proper curing time ensures that the paint sticks well to the surface and achieves the best durability. If you need to use the space immediately, keep the area well-ventilated with fans or air conditioning to speed up the drying process. 

Conclusion

Painting over painted walls in Singapore requires some preparation, but following these tips will help you achieve a professional-looking finish. By following the instructions, you can ensure that your new paint job is durable and visually appealing. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, you can transform your living space and enjoy an updated look in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

You need to prepare and prime the surface for a new painting project. Scrap off the peeling paint, and if the previous paint color is dark, a primer is a must. Afterward, paint the surface with great care and let the paint dry completely to achieve a professional finish.
Use a scrapper or putty knife to scrap off the peeling paint from the surface to let the new paint stick well.
The walls should be repainted in 3 to 5 years cycle.