It’s a very common problem that almost all homeowners will experience: flaky paint peeling off the walls, ugly cracks forming in once-smooth surfaces or colours fading into dull, washed-out versions of their former selves. We know it can be very frustrating, especially when you desire your home always to look its best.
The good news? Fixing peeling, cracking and fading paint isn’t just possible — with the right approach, it can be downright satisfying. As your local house painting professionals, we at Adelaide Home Painting are here to walk you through the process step-by-step.
First Things First – Let’s Find Out Why Your Paint Is Misbehaving
It’s helpful to understand why the paint failed in the first place before you pick up a brush and attempt to fix the annoying issue.
Peeling is more likely to happen when paint is losing adhesion. It might be from moisture, dirty surfaces, or applying new paint over old, shiny coats without proper prep.
Cracking starts small, like a hairline fracture here and a crack there, but eventually it can go out of control like a bushfire if the surface wasn’t properly primed or low-quality paint was used.
Paint fading? Blame the Aussie sun. Powerful UV radiation beats paint, scattering pigments and stripping your walls of colour.
Now that we know the root cause of your paint problem, let’s address the solution.
How to Tackle Peeling Paint
- Step 1: Strip It Back – Do not paint over where the peeling is because that will backfire. Any loose paint must be scraped off using a scraper or wire brush.
- Step 2: Smooth It Out – Scrape off the surface and then sand to a smooth level. Any imperfections or rough patches left over will show through your fresh coat of paint.
- Step 3: Prime Time – Use a high-quality primer appropriate for your surface, especially if you are painting wood, concrete or walls that have been impacted by water-damage in the past.
- Step 4: Paint with Confidence – It’s now time to splurge on a high-quality exterior or interior paint. Trust us, cheap paint ends up costing more in the long run.
How to Fix Cracking Paint
- Step 1: Assess the Damage – Tiny cracks? Perhaps just a patch job will do. Larger cracks might mean that stripping and redoing it all over is the ticket.
- Step 2: Remove Loose Paint – Chip away loose paint, sand the surface, and feather the edges so they merge with the rest of the wall seamlessly.
- Step 3: Patch It Up – For deeper cracks, apply a filler or patching compound – always smooth, dry and sand before priming.
- Step 4: Repaint Smart – Always paint with a high-quality paint that can tolerate some natural expansion and contraction without cracking.
How to Restore Faded Paint to Its Former Glory
- Step 1: Know When to Paint Over – If your paint is faded, chances are it’s lost more than just its colour — it may be less protective, too – hence, it’s time to refresh it.
- Step 2: Clean and Prep – Clean the surface correctly. Dust, dirt, and grime can all hinder how your new paint bonds.
- Step 3: Choose UV-Resistant Paint – In Adelaide, UV protection is a must. Look for paints specifically formulated to resist sun damage.
- Step 4: Two Coats Are Better Than One – Always apply at least two coats. It locks in the colour, enhances protection, and gives that rich, even finish you are after.
Bonus Tips to Avoid Future Problems
- Always prepare surfaces properly.
- Invest in good paint – trusted, proven brands suited for Adelaide’s climate.
- Inspect for moisture issues, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and outside walls.
Need a Hand? Adelaide Home Painting Has You Covered
Sure, a weekend DIY job can be tempting but if you want a finish that lasts and looks amazing sometimes it’s best to call in the pros. You can rely on our Adelaide painters to have your home looking fantastic and like new with the least hassle or stress. Our painting experts know how to properly handle challenging peeling, cracking, and fading issues and will do the job right, the first time. Ready to provide your walls with a new look? Let’s talk. Your dream painting job is just a phone call away.
