Can I just paint over old paint? Tips from the professionals
Tips from the professionals
So, you’ve decided to protect your home with Dulux. Here are some tips to help you decide whether it is okay to paint over the old paint in your home. Follow this guide to extend the life of your paintwork and help maintain the value of your investment.
Ensure the surface you are painting on is sound (for exterior painting)
If you are painting over existing paint, you need to ensure you will have a sound surface for adhesion of your paint. This is what the Paint Adhesion Test is for.
To do this, ensure the surface is sound by cutting a small X through the existing paint with a sharp blade, press sticky tape firmly across the cut and then rip off the tape. If the paint comes off, it is unsound and should be removed. Repeat at random in a number of areas to test the surface.
Scrape off all loose and flaking paint and ensure the surface is dry. If you are unsure, we recommend that you contact a qualified painter. If there is poor adhesion, you may need to strip the paint off the surface before proceeding. Stripping can be by sanding and scraping, or with chemical strippers. The appropriate protective clothing and equipment should be worn for either method.
If you believe there might be Lead Coatings present, It is recommended to have a professional painting contractor test and remove this. Visit Dulux Accredited Painters. Lead paints are most likely to be present in properties painted prior to 1990. Guidelines for the Management of Lead-based Paint.
Clean the surface
If you have found the surface you are painting is sound, follow these steps to correctly clean and prepare it. You will need: Exterior: Dulux Prep Wash (dilute as per label instructions) Interior: Selley’s Sugar Soap (dilute as per label instructions), fresh water, dry cloth, scrubbing brush
Wet surface with either Prep Wash or Sugar Soap
Scrub surface with brush and then rinse with clean water
Wipe dry with rag
Allow to dry before painting
How to guides
A fresh coat of paint can have an incredible effect on the feel of your home. Using Dulux Weathershield® will revitalise your home brickwork exterior and provide a lasting look designed for New Zealand conditions.
Give yourself the best chance of success with our exterior preparation guides
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