Why My White Acrylic Painted Interior Doors Are Peeling: Common Issues and Solutions

Dealing with peeling paint on your interior doors can be a frustrating and unexpected issue. However, don't apologize too quickly; understanding the factors that cause peeling can help you find the best solution to your problem.

Surface Preparation

Insufficient Cleaning: Before painting, it's essential to clean the doors thoroughly. If dirt, grease, or dust isn't removed, it can act as a barrier between the paint and the surface, preventing it from adhering correctly.

Sanding: A smooth surface can prevent paint from gripping well. Sanding the surface can create texture, allowing the paint to adhere better. Using an appropriate grit of sandpaper can help achieve the desired texture without damaging the surface.

Type of Primer

No Primer: If you painted directly over a glossy surface or an unprimed surface, the paint might not adhere well. Primer helps to seal the surface and improves adhesion.

Incompatible Primer: Using the wrong type of primer for acrylic paint can also cause peeling. Make sure to use a primer specifically designed for acrylic paints, especially if your surface was previously painted with oil-based paint.

Application Method

Too Thick of a Coat: Applying a thick layer of paint can cause peeling as the paint doesn't cure properly. This can lead to trapped air bubbles or excessive pressure on the surface.

Environmental Conditions: Painting in high humidity or low temperatures can affect drying and adhesion. Ensure that you paint in ideal conditions: temperatures between 50°F and 85°F with low humidity.

Paint Quality

Low-Quality Paint: Cheap or low-quality acrylic paint can lead to poor adhesion and durability. Investing in a high-quality acrylic paint designed for interior surfaces is essential.

Moisture Issues

High Humidity: If your doors are in a humid area like a bathroom, moisture can cause the paint to peel. Proper ventilation and using a moisture-resistant paint can help mitigate this issue.

Curing Time: If the paint was not allowed to fully cure before exposure to moisture or heavy use, it could peel. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time before using the doors.

Next Steps

To fix the peeling, you may need to:

Strip the peeling paint Sand the surface Clean it thoroughly Apply a suitable primer Repaint with high-quality acrylic paint

Ensuring you follow these best practices for surface preparation, application, and curing will help you avoid peeling issues in the future.