Paint Peeling Off of Original Painted Cabinets

Cutting Corners

• The most common cause of peeling paint, according to thisoldhouse.com, is improper preparation and application of paint. Sanding is a must when repainting cabinets. This process removes the existing paint, protective coating and any stains that could prevent new paint from sticking. Prior to any new paint being applied, a thorough cleaning with a mild dish soap and warm water will remove any unseen gunk from the surface, also allowing for a better surface for paint. If the existing material isn't in top condition, particularly if water damage is present, peeling paint is often the result. Additionally, a coat of modern water-based paint over older oil-based varieties is likely to peel.

Latex vs. Oil

• Both latex (water) and oil-based paints have their positive and negative attributes, but when painting kitchen cabinets, latex is preferable. Oil-based paints are generally easier to clean, and will resist staining better than latex. Additionally, it is more impermeable to stains than latex and will withstand heavy use better than latex. The downside, however, is that oil-based paints are more prone to peeling and mildewing than latex and latex won't discolor yellow over time. Once paint has been applied and given plenty of time to dry -- as long as 24 hours for oil-based paints -- a layer of polyurethane should be applied to the surface. This will aid in stain and scratch resistance. Both paint types will require thorough preparation, though oil will adhere better to a dirty surface than latex. A number of spray paint manufacturers, including Krylon and Rustoleum, produce spray-on products with an equal durability to standard paint, but are easier to apply and less likely to streak.

Water Damage

• Cabinets exposed to excessive moisture or humidity are more likely to flake or peel, even when paint and primer are applied correctly. This problem is especially prevalent in older cabinets, as the wood absorbs water from leaky pipes, windows, dishwashers and coffee pots. This kind of damage usually becomes evident when paint begins to bulge or flake, usually starting from the top and working its way down. This kind of damage is usually irreparable and the damaged material most likely won't hold paint. If humidity is a problem in the kitchen, the addition of a dehumidifier will help prevent long-term problems. If the water damage is minor it is possible that a dehumidifier will help correct the problem.

Testing

• Prior to stripping all surfaces, there is a simple test that will indicate how to proceed with repainting. This test, recommended by thisoldhouse.com, requires a sample prior to scraping and repainting. Find a spot that's hidden away and along the area with the worst damage. Give it a thorough cleaning, leave it to dry, then apply a bit of paint. Allow at least a day for the paint to dry, press an adhesive strip over the spot and pull it off. If the adhesive doesn't pull paint with it, thoroughly clean and repaint the cabinets. If the new and old paint comes off with the bandage, the surface must be stripped completely prior to repainting. If just the new paint is removed, an oil primer is required.