If you’re wondering how to fix chipped paints, especially during interior house painting in Star, ID, you’re not alone. Paint chips are one of those frustrating little things that always show up in the wrong places. The good news is that you don’t have to repaint the entire wall or room to fix them. All it takes is the right tools, a little know-how, and some patience.
Key Takeaways
- Paint chips can be repaired without repainting your entire wall.
- Chipped paint often results from improper prep work or moisture.
- You only need a few tools like spackle, sandpaper, and a putty knife.
- Blending the patch is just as important as applying it.
- A professional house painter can save you serious time for large or recurring issues.
Why Do Painted Walls Keep Chipping?
Chipped paint is a common issue, especially in busy homes or areas with changing moisture levels. If you’ve ever bumped the wall with a vacuum or dealt with steamy bathrooms, you already know how fragile paint can get.
As an interior house painter working in homes around Star, I’ve seen chipped paint in every room imaginable. In one case, a homeowner in a newer build had large paint flakes peeling from the laundry room walls because the original painters skipped the primer.
Here’s what usually causes chipping:
- Poor surface cleaning before painting
- No primer or wrong primer type
- Thick or uneven coats of paint
- Repeated contact with furniture or doors
- Excess humidity, especially in bathrooms or laundry rooms
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials to avoid multiple trips to the hardware store.
Tools Needed
- Putty knives (2-inch and 4-inch)
- Medium- and fine-grit sandpaper
- Wire brush
- Paintbrush
- Lint-free cloth or microfiber rag
Materials Needed
- Lightweight spackle or joint compound
- Wall primer
- Matching wall paint
- Painter’s tape
- Plastic sheeting
How to Fix Chipped Paints Without a Full Repaint
Follow these steps to repair paint chips effectively. This method works for a single chip or several small ones in the same area.
1. Prep the Area
Remove any artwork, unplug wall devices, and remove switch plates nearby. Tape off any trim and lay plastic sheeting below the work zone to keep dust and paint off the floor.
2. Remove Loose Paint
Use a wire brush to gently remove any peeling paint. If some edges are stubborn, scrape with your putty knife, keeping the angle shallow to avoid damaging the drywall.
3. Sand the Edges Down
Blend the ridge between the old paint and the exposed wall by sanding the area with medium grit paper. Aim for a soft edge.
4. Add Spackle to the Chip
Apply spackle directly to the damaged spot using a 2-inch putty knife. Press it in well and scrape off any excess.
5. Feather and Blend the Surface
Smooth the patch using a 4-inch knife, swiping lightly from different angles to achieve a flat finish.
6. Let It Dry Completely
Most fillers dry within 30 to 60 minutes, but deeper chips may take a few hours. Wait until it’s hard to the touch.
7. Sand Again and Wipe Clean
Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the patch. Wipe away the dust with a clean cloth.
8. Prime the Patched Spot
Apply a coat of primer that covers the repair and extends just past the edges. This helps the paint look even when it dries.
9. Paint to Match the Wall
Brush or roll on your paint color. Feather the edges so the new coat blends with the old. Let it dry fully and apply another coat if needed.
Preventing Future Paint Chips
To avoid frequent repairs, consider these tips to keep paint chips from coming back:
- Scuff shiny surfaces before painting
- Wipe down the walls with a mild cleaner before painting
- Use the right primer for your surface, especially in humid areas
- Avoid thick paint layers that trap air and moisture
- Install wall bumpers or trim in high-traffic areas
Should You Call a Professional House Painter?
For minor repairs, DIY might be sufficient. However, for extensive damage, complex color matching, or if you’re planning more interior house painting, hiring a professional house painter is advisable. They can fix chipped walls cleanly, quickly, and without leaving behind obvious patches.
