Back to Exterior Painting How-To's
How to Repair Flaking Paint
Removing flaking old paint from your exterior surfaces before applying a fresh coat will help ensure better adhesion.
For Best Results:
Don't forget to dust off the debris after you finish scraping off the flaking paint.
Suggested Tools & Supplies
- Vinyl Gloves
- Ladder
- Patching Material
- Protective Apparel
- Putty Knife
- Rags
- Sandpaper
- Scraper
- Wire Brush
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Step 1
Using a scraper, wire brush, or 80 to 100-grit sandpaper, remove any loose or peeling paint from the damaged area. Remove any dust or debris from the area with a lightly water-dampened rag.
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Step 2
Using a putty knife, apply a thin layer of patching material to the damaged area. Allow it to dry.
TIP: To create an even surface, always smooth out (feather) the patching material 1"-2" beyond the repaired area.
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Step 3
Use 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the patched area and make it even with the surface.
TIP: If shrinking of the patching material occurs, lightly sand and clean the area and apply additional layers of patching material as needed.
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Step 4
Remove any final dust or debris from the finished repair.
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