Tackling Painting Challenges in Older Homes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess the Condition of the Surface

Before picking up a brush, conduct a thorough assessment of the surfaces to be painted. Look for:

• Peeling or flaking paint

• Cracks in plaster or drywall

• Water stains or moisture damage

• Signs of mildew or mold

• Loose or damaged trim

• Efflorescence (white powder on masonry)

Take note of any surfaces that need repair or special treatment before painting begins. Older homes are often built with plaster walls, oil-based coatings, and wood siding, all of which age differently than today’s materials.

Step 2: Test for Lead-Based Paint

If your home was built before 1978, there’s a high chance that some layers of paint may contain lead. Disturbing lead-based paint can release toxic dust and chips into the air, posing serious health risks — especially for children and pets.

How to handle it:

• Purchase a lead test kit (available at most hardware stores).

• If lead is detected, hire a certified lead abatement professional or follow EPA guidelines for safe removal.

• Do not dry-sand or power-scrape lead paint unless you’re trained and equipped with proper safety gear.

Step 3: Repair and Prep Surfaces Thoroughly

Preparation is where the bulk of the work happens when painting older homes — and it’s also the most critical step. Here’s how to do it right:

a. Patch and Repair

• Use joint compound to patch cracks and holes in plaster.

• Reinforce weakened areas with mesh tape if needed.

• Re-secure any loose trim or molding.

b. Sanding

• Sand patched areas until smooth.

• Use a pole sander or electric sander with dust extraction if sanding large surfaces.

c. Clean and De-gloss

• Clean surfaces with a trisodium phosphate (TSP) solution to remove grime and grease.

• For glossy surfaces, use a liquid deglosser to ensure primer adheres properly.

d. Prime

Older surfaces are porous or unevenly painted, so using a high-quality primer is non-negotiable. Choose:

• Oil-based primer for glossy or previously oil-painted surfaces.

• Stain-blocking primer for water-damaged areas.

• Bonding primer for tricky surfaces like tile, metal, or previously varnished wood.

Step 4: Address Moisture and Mold Issues

Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of paint in older homes. Before painting:

• Check for leaks in the roof, gutters, or around windows.

• Repair any damaged flashing or caulking.

• Treat any mold or mildew with a mixture of bleach and water (1:3 ratio), then rinse thoroughly and let dry.

• Consider using a mold-resistant paint for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Step 5: Choose the Right Paint Products

Not all paints are created equal — especially when it comes to older homes. You’ll want products that offer durability, breathability, and compatibility with aged surfaces.

Interior Recommendations:

• Use latex paint for most walls and ceilings.

• For trim and high-traffic areas, a semi-gloss or satin finish offers better durability and washability.

Exterior Recommendations:

• Use 100% acrylic latex exterior paint, which offers excellent adhesion and weather resistance.

• Opt for elastomeric paint on stucco or masonry that may have fine cracks.

Step 6: Apply Paint Using Proper Technique

Once your prep work is complete, it’s time to paint:

• Use high-quality brushes and rollers suited for your surface (natural bristle for oil-based paint, synthetic for latex).

• Apply paint in thin, even coats.

• Follow the “top-down” method: ceilings first, then walls, then trim.

• Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Tip: Don’t skip the second coat — older homes often soak up the first coat quickly, making coverage uneven.

Step 7: Post-Painting Inspection and Cleanup

After painting, perform a final walkthrough to spot missed areas, drips, or uneven coverage. Touch up as needed.

For cleanup:

• Properly dispose of any materials that came into contact with lead-based paint.

• Store leftover paint in airtight containers for future touch-ups.

• Label cans with the date and room painted.

Bonus Tips for Painting Older Homes

• Test adhesion: When in doubt, do a small test patch and check how the paint adheres after 24 hours.

• Ventilation is key: Especially when working with oil-based products or in damp basements.

• Use painter’s tape judiciously: On older surfaces, tape can pull off fragile layers underneath.

• Consider historical accuracy: If restoring a heritage home, research period-appropriate color schemes or consult local heritage boards.