No more peeling, flaking house paint! The causes, and how to make your walls look like new again

Why does house paint peel and flake?

Issues House paint flaking or peeling off in sheets is one of the most common problems tradespeople see. The main causes are usually moisture built up inside the wall , using paint that isn't suited to the climate, or not cleaning the surface well enough beforehand, so the new paint film can't bond properly to the old render.

Tools to prepare before you start the repair

If the peeling area isn't too large, you can repair it yourself. Prepare these basic tools:

• Paint scraper: for scraping off the loose paint
• Sandpaper: for sanding the surface and the edges of the old paint smooth
• Primer for old plaster: key to binding plaster dust and improving adhesion
• Exterior paint (top coat): choose a colour and type that matches the existing wall
• Paint brushes and rollers: for the primer and the top coats

4 DIY steps to make a peeling wall smooth again

Step 1: Scrape and sand off all the old paint Use the scraper to remove as much of the loose paint as possible, then sand the edges of the remaining paint so they slope smoothly into the plaster and don't leave a visible step when you repaint.

Step 2: Clean and let the wall dry completely Brush off all the plaster dust, then wipe with a damp cloth. This is very important! Leave the wall to dry completely for at least 24 hours so no moisture gets trapped under the new paint film.

Step 3: Apply primer for old plaster Apply 1 coat of primer for old plaster to restore the old surface and improve adhesion. Let it dry for the time stated by the manufacturer (about 2-4 hours).

Step 4: Apply 2 top coats Apply 2 top coats, letting the first coat dry completely before the second, so the colour is even and the finish is smooth.

When should you call a specialist?

Small paint touch-ups are fine to do yourself, but if the peeling is caused by a leaking water pipe inside the wall , serious structural cracks, or it's exterior painting at height that needs scaffolding, it's best to call a specialist to inspect and fix it, for safety and long-lasting quality work.