Fixing A Contractor's Paint Job: Do-Over Guide

A bad paint job can be extremely frustrating, especially when you've paid a contractor for the work. Common issues include streaky or smudged paint, drips, and brush marks. Sometimes, the paint itself may be the issue, with bubbling or blisters caused by adhesion problems, or a failure to adequately prepare the surface. In some cases, the painter may have simply skipped important steps, leading to an unsatisfactory result. Fixing a bad paint job can be a hassle, but most mistakes can be repaired with some effort and the right tools.

Remove paint from surfaces it has accidentally spilled onto

If you notice paint on surfaces it has accidentally spilled onto, the first step is to let the paint dry. Trying to wipe it off while it is still wet may cause it to spread and make it harder to remove. Once the paint is dry, use a razor blade to gently scrape it off at an angle. Be careful not to gouge the surface beneath. If the paint is on the edge of a window, leave a 16th of an inch to seal the glass.

For paint on the ceiling, spray some window cleaner on a clean brush and gently wipe away the paint. Be careful, as window cleaner can remove more paint than intended. Use a small brush to touch up any dry spots and feather the edges so that they blend in.

If you are removing paint from a metal surface, it is important to prepare the area first. Lay down protective sheeting or plastic to prevent damage to other surfaces. Wear protective clothing, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator to safeguard yourself from the chemicals. Once the area is prepared, choose a suitable paint stripper—options include solvent-based, caustic-based, and bio-chemical-based. After removing the paint, rinse the surface with water and dry it with a clean towel or cloth.

In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional paint contractor to address more complex or extensive paint spills.

Fix paint bubbles

Paint bubbles, also known as blisters, can form when a layer of paint does not adhere to its underlying surface. As the paint dries, pockets of air or water form underneath, causing the paint to separate from the substrate. This is often due to moisture, extreme heat, or an inadequately prepared surface. Other factors include dirt, oil, grease, candle wax, smoke, or calicimite. If the paint has been applied over wallpaper, or if the surface has been painted with the wrong roller material, this can also cause bubbling.

Before attempting to fix paint bubbles, it is important to identify and address the underlying cause to prevent the issue from recurring. If moisture is the culprit, for example, you may need to address a source of water damage or improve ventilation in the room.

Once the underlying cause has been addressed, you can begin repairing the bubbled paint. Here is a general step-by-step guide:

• Remove the damaged paint: Use a razor blade, scraper, putty knife, or sander to gently scrape away the paint that has bubbled or lifted from the surface. Be careful not to gouge the underlying surface.
• Clean and prepare the surface: Sponge the exposed surface with soapy water and dry it thoroughly with a rag. If necessary, use a suitable primer to cover stains or prepare porous substrates. Ensure that the room temperature is within the recommended range for painting (typically between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Repaint the surface: Once the primer is dry, repaint the previously bubbled areas, following any blistering prevention guidelines provided by the paint manufacturer.

It is important to wear protective gear, such as a dust mask, goggles, and gloves, when scraping, sanding, or removing old paint to avoid exposure to lead dust or fumes, which can be toxic. Always clean up carefully with a HEPA vacuum and a wet mop.

Remove brush marks

If you're dealing with brush marks on walls, it's likely because the painter didn't "cut-in" correctly—that is, they didn't use a paintbrush properly in areas where rollers aren't effective, like corners and trim. To fix this, you have a few options:

Sanding

Sanding is a common method for removing brush marks, but it requires caution to avoid damaging the surface. Before starting, test the sanding process on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't remove the wall texture or cause other issues. If the brush marks are minor, a light sanding with a fine-grit sanding sponge or sandpaper may be sufficient. However, for deeper brush marks, you might need to start with a heavier grit (80-150) to level the surface, and then progress to a finer grit for a smoother finish. Always ensure the paint is completely dry before sanding, especially if using a damp sanding sponge, to avoid peeling or smearing.

Spackling

If the brush marks are particularly noticeable and there aren't too many paint layers, you can apply a thin layer of lightweight spackle over them. Once the spackle is dry, use dry sandpaper to smooth the surface and remove any remaining marks.

Chemical Solvents

In some cases, you can use chemical solvents like isopropyl alcohol, denatured alcohol solvent, acetone, or lacquer thinner to melt away the brush marks. Test these solvents in a small area first to ensure they don't damage the paint or underlying surface.

Painting

Applying an additional coat of high-quality paint can help conceal or minimise the appearance of brush marks. One coat may be sufficient, but for heavier brush marks, you might need two coats. Using a heavier nap roller can also help fill in minor gaps and provide better coverage for textured surfaces.

Plastering

If the brush marks are very deep, you might need to apply a thin layer of special plaster to smooth out the surface. This plaster mix is quite liquid and contains surface tension agents that help it self-level and create a smooth finish.

Fix paint drips

Paint drips are a common issue with interior and exterior paint jobs. If you notice paint drips while the paint is still wet, you can usually correct the problem with a few brush strokes, ensuring you maintain the same brush direction used in the surrounding area.

If the paint has dried, you can use a razor blade to gently cut down the drip. Be careful not to gouge the wall. After flattening the drip, smoothen out any remnants with fine-grit sandpaper, sanding in the same direction as the drip to avoid paint flaking. If you sand too deeply, you can cover the area with glazing putty, spreading it with a putty knife and removing any excess. Sand again after the putty dries, and prime before repainting.

If the paint drip has reached the trim or floor, you can also use a razor blade to remove it. Alternatively, if the paint is still wet, immediately wipe fresh drips with a damp cloth to prevent errors.

Sanding and repainting

If you're dealing with a contractor's bad paint job, one option is to fix it yourself through sanding and repainting. This can be a great way to save money and ensure the job is done to your satisfaction. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Identify the Issues:

Before starting the sanding and repainting process, it's important to identify the specific issues with the paint job. Common problems include paint drips or trails, brush marks, an insufficient number of coats, and paint bubbles or blisters. Understanding the issues will help you determine the best course of action for repairs.

Prepare the Surface:

Before beginning any sanding or repainting, it's crucial to prepare the surface properly. This includes cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. It is important to ensure the surface is clean and smooth for the next steps.

Sand the Surface:

Lightly sand the affected areas with fine-grit sandpaper (such as 150-grit) to create a smooth base. Sand in the direction of the wood grain if you are working on woodwork, or use a sanding block for larger areas. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you only want to remove the top layer of paint and create a smooth finish.

Tack the Surface:

After sanding, use a tack cloth or a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or debris from the surface. This step is important to ensure that the new paint will adhere properly and create a smooth finish.

Prime and Paint:

If necessary, apply a primer to the sanded areas to ensure better adhesion of the new paint. Once the primer is dry, you can start repainting. Use a roller or a brush, depending on the size and nature of the area being painted. Maintain a wet edge by painting in sections and ensuring that the paint does not dry until you finish the section. This will help create a seamless finish.

Final Touches:

Once the paint is dry, inspect the area for any imperfections or brush marks. If necessary, lightly sand the area again and apply a second coat of paint. Remember to feather the edges, especially when blending with the surrounding paint.

By following these steps, you can transform a contractor's bad paint job into a smooth and professional-looking finish. Remember to take your time, work in well-ventilated areas, and always follow safety precautions when working with paint and sanding tools.

Frequently asked questions