Guide
Why paint peels or chalks
Common reasons paint peels, flakes or chalks, and what to record before repainting.
Answer
Why is my paint peeling or chalking?
Explanation
Peeling and flaking
The coating has lost adhesion to what is beneath it. That points to moisture, contamination, a surface that was not prepared, or a coating applied over a layer that was already failing.
Detail
Chalking
A powdery residue when the surface is rubbed. It is associated with weathering and UV exposure on exterior surfaces. Coating over chalk without addressing it tends to produce another adhesion failure.
Detail
Where damp is involved
If there is a visible damp patch, the source needs investigating before any coating decision. Paint over an unresolved moisture source generally fails again, and can trap moisture in the wall.
Detail
What to record
Photograph the failing area, note whether it is interior or exterior, roughly how old the coating is, and what was used if known. Use the surface condition check on the tools page.
Questions
Also asked
Can I just paint over peeling paint?
Coating over a layer that has already lost adhesion generally repeats the failure. The loose material and the underlying cause need addressing first.
Does chalking mean bad paint?
Not necessarily. It is associated with weathering and exposure. What matters is addressing it before recoating.
Next
Ready to plan it?
Measure the walls, estimate each layer and build a paint list to send as one structured requirement.