1
Inspect the failed coating
Determine whether the failure is between the new paint and old coating, between primer and substrate, or within the old coating itself.
Peeling or Poor Adhesion
Paint that peels or lifts usually points to a problem with surface preparation, substrate compatibility, contamination or the coating system. The earlier the cause is identified, the easier it is to repair properly.
Quick answer
Remove loose material, identify the substrate, clean and abrade correctly, use the appropriate primer where required, and test the complete coating system before refinishing the whole area.
What to do
2
Check the substrate
Confirm whether you are working on steel, aluminium, galvanised metal, plastic, uPVC, wood or another material. Different substrates need different preparation and primers.
3
Remove loose or weak material
Strip or abrade all unstable coatings until you reach a sound surface that can support the new system.
4
Clean and degrease thoroughly
Remove grease, oil, wax, polish, silicone, salts and sanding residue using a cleaner compatible with the substrate and coating system.
5
Create the correct key
Abrade glossy or smooth surfaces as required. Do not rely on a new coating to adhere to a polished or contaminated surface.
6
Use the correct primer
Select the primer for the actual substrate and the intended topcoat. Bare aluminium, galvanised steel, plastic and rusted steel can require different approaches.
7
Test the system
Before coating the complete item, test the primer and topcoat on a representative area and allow the system to develop enough cure to assess adhesion.
8
Repair and recoat
Once the substrate and coating system are sound, rebuild the finish using controlled coats and the correct drying and recoat conditions.
Important
Follow the product label and current Technical and Safety Data Sheets. Do not modify, puncture or misuse aerosol containers.
Common mistakes to avoid
Painting over loose or flaking material
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Skipping degreasing
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Using the wrong primer for the substrate
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Leaving glossy areas unabraded
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Applying paint before the substrate is dry
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Assuming one primer is suitable for every surface
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my paint peeling after a few days?
Poor adhesion can result from contamination, insufficient keying, unsuitable primer, incompatible coatings, moisture or application outside the product conditions.
Does primer always prevent peeling?
No. Primer is only one part of the system. The substrate must still be properly prepared and the primer and topcoat must be compatible.
Can I paint over old flaking paint?
No. Loose and failed material should be removed before rebuilding the coating system.
Why does paint peel from aluminium?
Aluminium often needs thorough cleaning and suitable adhesion preparation, especially where oxide, polish or contamination is present.
How can I test adhesion?
Use the test method recommended for the coating system or ask AerosolsRus for guidance based on the substrate and product being used.
Still need help?
Tell us about the project, substrate and coating issue and our paint experts can help you choose the next step.
Contact a Paint Expert