How to Repaint a Cement Wall After Humidity

Painting cement on humid or rainy days will often lead to bubbling and peeling paint -- this is particularly true if your cement wall is in a basement, which are typically humid to begin with. If this has happened to you, you will need to start the painting project over from the beginning. Unfortunately, this means you will need to prepare the surface again, as well. If possible, wait for drier weather before restarting this project. Otherwise, you need to take additional steps to decrease the humidity levels in your work area.

Paint remover
Paint brushes
Rags
Trisodium phosphate
Fans
Dehumidifier
Paint brushes
Paint rollers
Paint trays

Instructions

- 1
  Open any windows in the room before you start working to ensure proper ventilation. Strip away the first coating of paint. This is particularly important if that layer of paint is still bubbling and peeling from the humidity. You will not be able to paint over this. Apply a commercial paint remover according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 2
  Wash the wall with hot water and trisodium phosphate -- mix about 1 cup of trisodium phosphate to 4 gallons of water. Rinse the wall and allow it to dry completely for three to five days. Leave the windows open and, if you have some available, place fans in the room to increase air circulation.
- 3
  Work on a day when humidity is low. If there is a deadline for your project and you can't wait for a warm, dry day, rent or buy a dehumidifier strong enough for the size of the room in which you're working.
- 4
  Paint the wall. Use brushes or rollers to spread the paint. Spread the paint as thinly as you possibly can. When working in humid conditions, it is better to apply two or three very thin layers, which will dry faster, than to apply one thick layer that may bubble and peel. Allow the paint to dry completely between each coat.

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