Prep and primer
The work before the paint that decides how long it lasts.
Do I need primer before painting?
Use primer on bare wood, new drywall, patched areas, stains, glossy or oil-based surfaces, masonry, and when making a big color change. You can usually skip it when repainting a clean, sound, previously painted wall with a similar color.
Full answerCan I paint latex over oil-based paint?
Yes, but not directly. Clean the surface, scuff sand it to dull the gloss, and apply a bonding primer rated for oil-based surfaces. Then use latex over it. Latex applied straight over oil tends to peel off in sheets.
Full answerHow do I fix peeling paint before repainting?
First find and fix the moisture causing it, then scrape off all loose paint, sand the edges smooth, prime bare spots, and repaint. Painting over peeling paint without fixing the cause guarantees it will peel again.
Full answerCan I paint over wallpaper?
You can, but removal is usually better. If the paper is tightly bonded, seal it with an oil-based or shellac primer first, because water-based paint can make the paper bubble and seams lift. Loose, textured or vinyl paper should come off.
Full answerHow much paint do I need for a room?
One gallon covers about 350 to 400 square feet per coat on smooth, primed walls. Add the widths of all walls, multiply by the ceiling height, subtract about 20 square feet per door and 15 per window, then divide by 350 and multiply by the number of coats. A typical 12 by 12 foot bedroom takes about 2 gallons for two coats.
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