Understanding the causes of paint bubbling on walls is essential for taking the right preventative measures. While moisture is the most common culprit, several other factors can contribute to bubbling. These issues may occur during the painting process or appear months later. In this article, we’ll explore the potential reasons behind bubbling paint and offer solutions to keep your walls looking smooth.
Why Does Paint Bubble on Walls?
Choosing the wrong type of paint, painting without properly preparing the wall, high heat, and humidity are just a few factors that can cause paint to bubble on walls. Let’s take a closer look at some common scenarios to help you pinpoint the exact cause of the issue.
1-Incorrect Paint Choice
Most interior paints are water-based, which allows for easy layering. However, if the existing paint is oil-based or synthetic, applying water-based paint on top can lead to issues such as peeling and bubbling.
Solution: If the new paint is of a different type than the existing paint, it’s a good idea to apply a coat of glossy surface primer, bonding primer, or a transitional primer as a precaution. We especially recommend using a primer if you’re considering applying water-based paint over oil-based paint. “Related article: painting over oil based paint.”
2-Painting over Low-Quality or Deteriorated Paint
Low-quality old paints can create a dusty texture that reduces the new paint’s ability to adhere. When new paint is applied to such surfaces, it may bubble or peel due to poor adhesion.
Solution: If there is dust on the old paint, wipe it off with a damp cloth. Use a high-quality primer to cover the old paint before applying a new coat. Make sure the primer is completely dry before starting with the new paint. “Related article: Is paint primer necessary?”
3-Painting on Dirty or Oily Walls
Paint manufacturers recommend cleaning and degreasing surfaces before painting. Paint will not properly adhere to dirty or oily surfaces, leading to bubbling and peeling in a short period of time.
Solution: Clean the wall thoroughly and use a high-quality primer before applying the paint. Make sure the wall is clean and dry before starting the new paint job. “Related article: How to clean walls without streaks?”
4-Painting in High Temperatures
One of the factors that can cause paint to bubble is painting in excessively hot conditions. Hot weather, especially during the summer months, is one of the leading causes of bubbling paint on exterior walls. When the surface is too hot, the paint dries unevenly, trapping air bubbles beneath it. This issue can also occur on interior walls if the room temperature exceeds the recommended levels during painting. This applies to exterior painting as well.
Solution: For exterior walls, paint when the surface is cool—early morning or evening is ideal. For interiors, make sure the room temperature aligns with the paint manufacturer’s recommendations. “Related article: Painting in cold.”
5-Painting on Moist Walls
Moisture is one of the most troublesome issues when it comes to painting. Not only does it prevent proper adhesion, but it also encourages mold growth. Water from leaking pipes, rain, or water from upper floors can seep into walls, creating a consistently damp environment. Painting on moist walls will almost certainly result in bubbling.
Solution: Identify and resolve the source of moisture before painting. Clean and dry the surface thoroughly, and apply a moisture-blocking solution if necessary. “Related article: Paint bubbling on ceiling.”
How do You Fix Bubbling Wall Paint?
- Always properly prepare the surface and follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for application conditions to prevent bubbling.
- Make sure the new paint is of the same type as the old one before applying it. If not, use a primer.
- Moist walls can ruin even the best paint job, so addressing moisture issues before painting is especially critical.
- If there’s moisture in a wall with bubbling paint, resolve it before repainting. Then, sand the surface. If necessary, fix any uneven spots with plaster. After the plaster dries, use a moisture-blocking primer and then paint the wall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my wall bubbling?
Bubbling on your wall can be caused by several factors. Moisture from leaks, high humidity, or damp walls can prevent paint from adhering properly. Improper surface preparation, such as not cleaning or priming the wall, can also lead to bubbling. Using the wrong type of paint, like applying water-based paint over oil-based paint without primer, can cause poor adhesion. High temperatures during painting can dry the paint too quickly, trapping air bubbles. Additionally, old or deteriorated paint can lead to bubbling as well. Addressing these issues can prevent future problems.
Does bubbling on wall mean mold?
Bubbling on a wall doesn’t always mean mold, but it can be a sign of moisture issues, which could eventually lead to mold growth. If the bubbling is caused by dampness or water leaks, the moisture can create the perfect environment for mold to develop. It’s important to identify the source of the moisture and address it to prevent mold from forming. If mold is already present, it will need to be removed before repainting.
Does bubbling paint mean water damage?
Yes, bubbling paint can be a sign of water damage. When moisture seeps into the wall, it can cause the paint to lose adhesion and form bubbles. This is often due to leaks, humidity, or water intrusion, which can lead to further damage if not addressed. It’s important to find and fix the water source before repainting to prevent the issue from recurring.
Why is my wall foaming?
Foaming on a wall is often caused by a chemical reaction, usually between the wall surface and the cleaning solution or paint being used. It can also happen if the wall is damp when paint is applied, causing trapped moisture to react with the paint.
Does bubbling paint mean damp?
Yes, bubbling paint can indicate dampness. When moisture or humidity seeps into the wall, it can cause the paint to lose adhesion, leading to bubbling. This can be due to leaks, condensation, or high humidity levels, all of which create a damp environment.
