Can Exterior Paint Be Applied Over Old Paint?

Yes, if the old paint is sound, exterior paint can be applied over it. The condition is that the old coat holds well to the wall, does not chalk and has not blistered; otherwise the new paint comes off together with the old.

Three simple soundness tests

• Hand test: rub the wall; if powder stays on your palm, the surface has chalked.
• Scrape test: probe in several places with a scraper; if the paint lifts in flakes, it is not holding.
• Tape test: stick on a strong tape and pull it off sharply; if paint stays on the tape, the surface is weak.

Preparation in five steps

1. The facade is washed; dust, dirt and moss are removed.
2. Blistered and loose paint is scraped off.
3. Cracks and defects in the render are repaired.
4. A primer suited to the condition of the surface is applied.
5. Two coats of exterior paint are applied.

When must the old paint come off completely?

When there is blistering over large areas, when layer upon layer of paint is cracking and scaling, or when damp is coming from underneath. In that case the weak layers are taken back to a sound base.

What if the old paint is a different type?

Paint does not bond directly to limewash, oil paint or a glossy surface; a primer suited to that surface is needed first.

Can a light colour go over a dark one?

It can; a tinted primer and two full coats are enough for coverage. During the survey Erdağ Yapı carries out these tests and writes the preparation into the quote; details are on our exterior facade paint page.