Paint is peeling off walls

Close-up of a wall with significant peeling paint damage, revealing the plaster beneath.
Image: lisafree54 (CC0)
Person using a scraper tool to remove loose, peeling paint from a wall surface.
Photo: Anastasia Golts / Pexels

Watch: Repairing Peeling Wall Paint

How to Repair Peeling Paint | This Old House via This Old House

Understanding Paint Bubbling and Blistering

Paint bubbling, also referred to as paint blistering, occurs when the paint begins to lift from the surface, creating noticeable bubbles in the finish. These imperfections can detract from a project's appearance, but understanding the underlying causes can help prevent them.

The terms paint bubbling and paint blistering are interchangeable and describe the same phenomenon. Recognizing the various reasons for this issue can lead to improved final results in painting projects.

Common Causes of Paint Bubbling

Several factors can contribute to paint bubbling. Frequent culprits include surface contamination, inadequate cleaning practices, environmental conditions, and the use of incompatible additives.

Painting over surfaces that have oil, wax, grease, or silicone contamination is a primary cause. Additionally, improper cleaning methods can also lead to the paint not adhering correctly.

Lead-Based Paint Hazards

In homes built before 1978, lead-based paint may be present. While children can live safely in these homes if the paint is in good condition and surfaces are kept clean, deteriorating paint poses a hazard.

When lead-based paint deteriorates, peels, chips, or cracks, it can create dust and chips. This old or worn paint becomes a hazard when inhaled or ingested, particularly on surfaces that experience frequent friction, such as doors or window sills.

Renovation and Repair Rules

The Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule addresses projects in pre-1978 buildings that may contain lead-based paint. These projects can easily generate dangerous lead dust if not managed properly.

The RRP Rule includes provisions for emergency exemptions after a disaster, allowing property owners to quickly address damage and preserve their homes and property.

Key takeaways

  • Paint bubbling, or blistering, is a condition where paint lifts from the surface, forming bubbles.
  • Common causes include surface contamination, poor cleaning, environmental factors, and incompatible additives.
  • Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, which becomes a hazard if it deteriorates.
  • The EPA's RRP Rule governs renovation, repair, and painting projects in pre-1978 buildings to mitigate lead dust hazards.

Related tools

Estimate materials with our free paint calculator on PaintMath.

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