Reviving A Bad Interior Trim Paint Job

Interior trim is a great way to transform the look and feel of your home, but a bad paint job can be an eyesore. Common issues with interior trim paint jobs include paint on unwanted surfaces, paint drips, roller marks, and brush marks. To fix these issues, you can use a razor blade to gently scrape off the paint, sand the surface, clean the area, and then repaint. It's important to identify the type of paint used (latex or oil-based) as this will determine the best method for removal. You can do this by rubbing a cotton ball soaked in denatured alcohol on the painted surface—if the paint comes off, it's latex. Before repainting, make sure to prime the surface and use the appropriate brush to avoid further issues.

How to fix a bad interior trim paint job

Identify the type of paint used

When it comes to identifying the type of paint used on interior trim, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, it's important to determine whether the paint is oil-based or latex/acrylic-based. Oil-based paints tend to have a smoother texture and a longer drying time, which helps to level out brush strokes. They are also known for their durability and moisture resistance, especially when used with a primer. On the other hand, latex or acrylic-based paints have a more rubbery feel and dry faster, but may not be as durable or easy to clean as oil-based paints.

One simple way to distinguish between oil-based and latex/acrylic-based paints is by feel. Oil-based paints tend to have a very smooth texture, while latex/acrylic paints feel more rubbery. The difference is often more noticeable with gloss paints than with flat paints. If you're not sure, you can rub the paint with denatured alcohol or a paint deglosser; if it's latex/acrylic, the paint will start to soften.

Another factor to consider is the sheen or finish of the paint. Interior trim paints typically come in a range of sheens, including satin, semi-gloss, gloss, and high gloss. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are popular choices as they strike a balance between shine and concealing imperfections. Gloss and high-gloss finishes provide a more intense shine and are easier to clean, but they can highlight flaws and produce uncomfortable reflected light. Flat or matte finishes are less common for trim as they are harder to clean and more prone to chipping.

In addition to sheen, the colour of the paint is also important. Trim paints often come in bright white or base colours that can be custom-tinted. White trim paint is a classic choice, but it's important to consider the location of the trim as UV rays can cause yellowing over time. If your trim is near a window or outdoors, look for paint with non-yellowing properties or resistance to yellowing.

Lastly, the thickness of the paint can also provide clues about its type. Trim paint is generally thicker than regular wall paint to prevent sagging or blotching during drying. Oil-based paints tend to be thicker than water-based latex or acrylic paints, filling in small scratches or imperfections. However, newer options like acrylic-alkyd hybrids offer improved toughness and workability, bridging the gap between oil-based and latex/acrylic paints.

Remove paint drips and spills

Paint drips and spills are a common occurrence when painting interior trim. Here are some tips to help you remove them and achieve a neat and professional finish:

Identify the Cause

Firstly, it's important to identify why the paint is dripping or spilling. This could be due to having too much paint on your brush or roller. It is recommended to load your brush with paint only about two-thirds of the way up and to dab off any excess against the container.

Wipe Away Fresh Drips

As soon as you notice a fresh drip or spill, immediately wipe it away with a damp cloth. This will help prevent the paint from drying and creating a more stubborn mess.

Scrape Off Raised Areas

If the paint has already dried and created raised areas or drips, use a razor blade or a similar tool to gently scrape off the excess paint. Be careful not to gouge or scratch the underlying surface. For thicker globs of paint, you may need to cut them out carefully.

Sanding

After scraping, use sandpaper to smooth out the area. Sand the entire area, including the surrounding surfaces, to ensure a consistent texture. You can use 220-grit sandpaper for this step. Wipe away the sanding dust with a damp rag and allow the area to dry thoroughly.

Re-prime and Repaint

Once the area is smooth and clean, it's time to re-prime. Priming will help seal the previous paint job and create a fresh surface for your new coat of paint. After priming, apply a new coat of paint, ensuring you feather the new paint into the old for a seamless finish.

Remember to always work carefully and patiently when dealing with paint drips and spills. Taking your time will help ensure a neat and professional-looking interior trim paint job.

Sanding and scraping

Before starting the sanding process, ensure you have the right type and grit of sandpaper for the job. For removing brush marks, for instance, 220-grit sandpaper is recommended.

Begin by identifying the areas that require sanding. These could be uneven surfaces, brush marks, or raised paint drips. Gently sand the affected areas until they become smooth and flush with the surrounding surface. Take care not to apply too much pressure, especially when sanding walls, to avoid creating indentations or gouges. Use a light touch and always sand in the direction of the wood grain if you're working on wooden trim.

After sanding, it's essential to wipe away the sanding dust with a damp rag. This ensures that the dust doesn't interfere with the adhesion of the new paint. Allow the sanded area to dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

In some cases, you may need to scrape away excess paint or paint bubbles before sanding. This can be done with a razor blade or a similar tool. Carefully scrape off the offending paint at an angle to avoid damaging the underlying surface. For paint bubbles, scrape them away, then sand, clean, and let the area dry before repainting.

Additional Tips:

• Always keep a damp cloth or rag nearby to wipe away any spills or excess paint during the sanding process.
• If you're dealing with a thick layer of paint or severe paint buildup, you may need to consider paint stripping or replacing the trim altogether.
• When preparing for repainting, pay attention to choosing the right colour and type of paint to ensure a beautiful end result.
• Properly prepare the surface by patching any holes or imperfections before sanding and painting.
• If you're unsure about the type of paint previously used (oil or latex), use the rubbing alcohol test to determine the paint type and choose the appropriate primer.

Priming

Identify the Type of Paint

Before priming, it is crucial to determine whether the existing paint is oil-based or latex. This is important because the choice of primer depends on the type of paint. You can test this by cleaning and drying a small section of the trim. Take a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and wipe the area. If the paint comes off, it is latex; if it doesn't, it's oil-based.

Choose the Right Primer

If you are switching from oil-based paint to latex, you will need to use a primer. An oil or shellac-based primer is recommended in this case. Latex paint with primer can be used over oil-based paint, but it may not provide a strong bond.

Prepare the Surface

Ensure the surface is clean and free of dirt, debris, grease, and peeling paint. If there are any globs of paint or thick paint layers, you can use a razor blade to carefully scrape and cut away the excess, being careful not to gouge the surface. Sand the area to create a smooth surface. Use sandpaper with a fine grit, such as 220-grit, to achieve a smooth finish. Wipe away the sanding dust with a damp cloth and allow the surface to dry thoroughly.

Apply Primer

Once the surface is prepared, you can apply the primer. Use a high-quality angled paintbrush or a roller, depending on the size of the area. Load the brush about two-thirds of the way up with primer and dab off any excess. Apply the primer in thin, even coats, ensuring complete coverage. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step, which may include sanding, cleaning, or applying the first coat of paint, depending on the specific situation and instructions of the products you are using.

Protect Adjacent Surfaces

When priming and painting, it is important to protect adjacent surfaces, such as flooring or neighbouring walls. Use drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or other materials to catch any drips or spills. Tape can also be used to protect adjacent surfaces, but be cautious when removing it to avoid pulling off dried paint.

Remember to always work in a well-ventilated area and follow the safety instructions on the product labels. Taking your time and using the right tools and techniques will help ensure a successful priming and painting experience.

Painting techniques

• Surface Preparation: Before starting to paint, ensure the surface is clean and properly prepared. Remove any dirt, debris, grease, or peeling paint. If there are areas that require patching, apply a compound and let it dry before lightly sanding the patched areas to create a smooth surface.
• Priming: Priming is essential, especially if you're transitioning from oil-based paint to latex paint. It helps seal the old paint and creates a smooth base for the new paint to adhere to. Choose a primer suitable for your surface, such as an oil or shellac-based primer if you're dealing with stubborn stains.
• Choosing the Right Paint: Opt for high-quality paint that is specifically designed for interior trim. Consider the colour and finish you desire, such as semi-gloss or gloss. If you're unsure about the previous paint type, use a cotton ball or square wet with rubbing alcohol to test. If the paint comes off, it's latex; if it doesn't, it's oil-based.
• Using the Appropriate Tools: Select the right tools for the job, including high-quality angled paintbrushes and rollers. Use drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or other materials to protect flooring or carpeting from spills and drips. Keep a damp cloth or rag nearby to quickly clean up any messes.
• Painting Technique: Load your paintbrush approximately two-thirds of the way up, then dab it against the container to remove excess paint. Apply even pressure when painting to avoid roller marks and edge marks. Ensure you are using the appropriate brush for edging to prevent brush marks.
• Drying and Re-Coating: Allow each coat of paint to dry thoroughly before applying the next. If you need to remove tape, wait at least an hour after painting, then use a razor blade to gently cut off the tape and any raised paint.
• Fixing Common Issues: If you encounter drips or paint bubbles, scrape away the raised areas, sand the surrounding area smooth, and then re-prime and re-paint, feathering the new paint into the old. For roller marks, sand down the uneven areas until smooth and re-paint.

Remember, taking the time to prepare, using high-quality tools and paint, and practicing your painting technique will help you achieve the desired results and avoid a messy trim paint job.

Frequently asked questions