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How to Deal With Peeling Paint From Moisture in Bathroom

High levels of moisture in a bathroom can lead to a number of problems, including mold and mildew growth and peeling paint. As the moisture in the air condenses on the walls and ceilings, the water penetrates the paint. Once enough water collects between the paint and the wall or ceiling's surface, the paint begins to bubble and peel. You must repair the paint and take steps in the future to minimize the amount of moisture in the bathroom's air.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Putty knife
  • Spackling
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
  • Shop vacuum
  • Paint brush
  • Primer
  • Paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dry the paint completely using a towel, or allow it to air dry fully before continuing. Scrape away any loose paint using a putty knife blade, including any paint bordering the paint that is peeling.

    • 2

      Apply spackling to the area of the wall or ceiling where the paint peeled until the affected area is level with the surrounding wall surface. Depending on the depth of the damage on the wall or ceiling, you may need to apply multiple layers of spackling until the wall or ceiling surface is level again.

    • 3

      Sand the dried spackling with fine-grit sandpaper, removing any rough patches in the spackling as well as blending the spackling's edges with the rest of the wall. Hold a running shop vacuum hose next to the surface you are sanding to help capture the dust.

    • 4

      Apply primer to the patch in the wall or ceiling using a paintbrush. Once the primer has dried, apply a coat of paint to match the rest of the wall or ceiling.

    • 5

      Prevent future moisture problems in the bathroom by opening the window, running the fan and leaving the shower curtain or door open after anyone showers or takes a bath.