How to Paint Over Old Molding

One of the first steps in painting over old surfaces usually involves scraping and sanding. When you are dealing with old moldings that may contain lead paint, these are dangerous activities that you should avoid at all costs. Unless you are absolutely certain that every single layer of your old trim is free from lead paint, it is important not to do anything to that will disturb the paint or create dust. Any paint used prior to 1978 could contain lead. The safest approach to painting old surfaces is to simply apply a topcoat of fresh, lead-free paint.

Disposable gloves
Respirator
Plastic sheeting
2-inch angled brush
Paint in semi-gloss finish
Light (optional)
Garbage bag

Instructions

- 1
  Put on disposable gloves to keep your hands clean. Wear a respirator. Place plastic sheets next to the moldings.
- 2
  Apply a coat of paint with an angled brush. Take extra care where the trim meets the wall or the floor to keep paint off of these surfaces. Brush the paint on in the direction of the wood. Once it dries, this first coat of paint will seal in the old paint.
- 3
  Brush on a second coat of paint. Make sure you have applied a second coat to all areas of the trim. You can shine a light on the surface to look for the reflection produced by wet paint.
- 4
  Roll up the plastic sheets carefully. Place them in a garbage bag. Take off your gloves and throw them away.

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