How to fix paint flaking from celling?

Question

So the celling was flaking, we had it painted again about 2 years ago by a painter and it is happening again. He preaped it, did a primer and patched some of it. The patched part has held up. So it is a recurring problem in the kitchen living room, worse around the corners and kitchen and is coming off in large flakes and alot of cracking. It's happened quicker than it did the first time. I believe he really preaped it. Sorry photos dont do it justice to how bad it is. So what can we do it actually prevent it from happening or does it need to be replaced?

MitchellMc · Answer

HI @alexjohnno,

You really need a painter to come back and take a look at why it failed. If, as you said, they prepared it correctly, there's no reason why the paint wouldn't have bonded. If it is the primer that has come away from the old paint, it could be that the old paint is in a continuous state of breaking down. If that's the case, I would recommend sanding the area to remove the old, deteriorated paint.

Can you tell us whether they were painting over old paint or if they are painting over raw plaster? Also, is it just the new primer and paint that has peeled away from the old paint, or is it the old paint that has peeled away from the sheeting, bringing the primer and new paint with it?

I'd suggest that the areas that continue to flake need to be sanded to remove the top surface of the old paint.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

EricL · Answer

Hello @alexjohnno

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your ceiling paint.

Before you begin your project, I suggest having your ceiling tested for asbestos. This will confirm if it is safe to work with and that it can be sanded down safely. If the test is positive, you'll need the services of an asbestos removal specialist. If the test is negative, you can continue with your paint project.

On the condition that the test is negative. I suggest starting from scratch and re-painting the entire ceiling. Because the paint on your ceiling has been partially repaired and peeling is still occurring, it's safe to conclude that the old paint cover is deteriorating and can no longer be patched or painted over.

One other avenue I suggest looking into is possible moisture damage. It is possible that water has been slowly passing through your roof and settling on the ceiling cover. If water has been slowly permeating the ceiling boards, then it can cause the paint to peel off. I recommend having a roofing tradesperson inspect your roof and ceiling for leaks.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric