If the surface to be painted is badly chalked, what steps should you take before repainting?

When a surface is badly chalked, proper preparation is crucial for ensuring good adhesion of the paint and the longevity of the finish. Cleaning the surface thoroughly is essential as it removes the chalk, dirt, and any loose particles that could interfere with the paint’s bond to the surface. This step also allows the new paint to adhere better, improving its durability and appearance.

Following the cleaning process, applying a primer is important. A primer specifically formulated for chalky surfaces can help seal the substrate, providing a stable base for the subsequent layers of paint. Priming not only enhances adhesion but can also prevent the chalk from bleeding through the new coat of paint, which would compromise the finish.

Finally, repainting after these steps ensures that the final coat looks uniform and adheres properly, maintaining the integrity of the paint job over time. Skipping these preparation steps—such as by simply repainting without cleaning or priming—will likely lead to peeling, blistering, and other issues down the line, necessitating more frequent maintenance and repainting. Thus, thorough cleaning, priming, and then repainting is the proper method to tackle badly chalked surfaces.