Choosing the right paint sheen is important when painting your home’s interior. But what if you want to repaint a surface but don’t want to change the sheen? Can you paint semi-gloss over semi-gloss?
You can paint semi-gloss over semi-gloss, but proper preparation is crucial. The surface should be cleaned and lightly sanded to create a smooth and even texture for the new paint to adhere to. Applying a coat of primer may also be necessary, especially if the existing semi-gloss paint is old or discolored.
In this article, you will learn about:
- The 4 factors to consider when painting semi-gloss over semi-gloss
- How to paint over semi-gloss with semi-gloss paint
- 3 tips for achieving a smooth and even finish
Expert Advice for Painting Semi-Gloss Over Semi-Gloss (4 Key Factors)
1. Preparation of the Surface
Before painting over semi-gloss, it’s vital to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of cracks, peels, or stains.
Start by dusting off loose dirt or cobwebs using a brush or vacuum cleaner. Then, wash the surface thoroughly with a mild detergent and water solution, rinse off with clean water, and let it dry completely.
2. Condition of the Surface
The condition of the surface is another critical factor that can affect the outcome of your painting project. If there are any cracks or holes, you may need to fill them with a suitable filler, such as spackle or wood filler, and let it dry before sanding the surface again.
Similarly, if there are any stains or discolorations, you may need to apply a stain-blocking primer before painting to prevent them from bleeding through the new paint.
3. Quality of the Paint
The paint quality you use is also crucial when painting over semi-gloss. You should always use high-quality semi-gloss paint specifically formulated for your painting surface. Low-quality paint can result in uneven coverage, flaking, chipping, or peeling, even with proper preparation.
4. Type of Paint
Finally, the type of paint you use also matters. Painting over oil-based paint with water-based paint or vice versa can lead to adhesion problems. If you are painting over a semi-gloss oil-based paint, use an oil-based semi-gloss paint.
How to Paint Over Semi-Gloss With Semi-Gloss Paint
Tools and Materials
- Zinsser’s B-I-N Primer-Sealer
- Semi-gloss paint
- Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit)
- Sanding block
- Paintbrush
- Paint roller
- Tack cloth
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Remove all furniture, rugs, and other items from the room. Put down drop cloths to protect your floors and surfaces you don’t want to paint. Remove any fixtures or hardware from the walls and cover them with painter’s tape.
Step 2: Clean the Surface
Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dirt, grease, or peeling paint. If you find any loose or flaking paint, use sandpaper to smooth it out until the surface is uniform.
Dirt, dust, and debris will cause the new paint to adhere poorly and finish poorly. Use a mild soap solution to clean the surface, rinse it well, and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Remove the Gloss Layer
Removing the gloss layer is essential to ensure good adhesion and a smooth finish when painting over an existing semi-gloss surface. The gloss layer of the existing paint can act as a barrier, preventing the new paint from sticking properly.
This can result in peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the new paint, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix. Here are the options you have for removing the gloss layer:
Option 1: Sandpaper
Sandpaper is a great option for removing the gloss layer from a surface. You’ll need sandpaper in various grit sizes, ranging from coarse to fine. Your grit size will depend on the surface you’re working on and the gloss level you want to remove.
You’ll also need a sanding block or pad to hold the sandpaper in place and a clean cloth to wipe away dust and debris.
Sand in a circular motion, applying even pressure to the surface. Make sure to sand in the direction of the grain, as this will prevent scratches and damage to the material. As you sand, periodically wipe away dust and debris with a clean cloth.
Gradually work your way up to finer grit sandpaper until the desired level of gloss removal is achieved. Be patient and take your time, as rushing the process can damage the surface.
Option 2: Liquid Deglosser
A liquid deglosser, also known as a liquid sander, is a chemical solvent that breaks down the top layer of a surface, thereby removing the glossy finish.
Using a liquid deglosser to remove the gloss layer is relatively simple. First, ensure the surface you want to degloss is clean and dry. Then, apply the liquid deglosser to a rag or sponge and evenly apply it to the surface.
Follow the product instructions on how long you should let the deglosser sit before wiping down the surface with a clean rag or sponge. After wiping it down, allow it to dry for a few hours before applying your finish.
One of the pros of using a liquid deglosser is that it’s a quick and easy solution for removing gloss layers from surfaces.
On the other hand, a con of using a liquid deglosser is that it can be quite messy, so it’s important to ensure proper ventilation and to work in an area where any spills or drips won’t damage your surroundings.
Option 3: Paint Stripper
A paint stripper is a chemical solution that breaks down and dissolves the top layer of a glossy finish, making it easier to remove.
To use paint stripper, ensure you work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and eyewear. Apply the solution to the surface with a brush or roller and let it sit for the recommended amount of time (usually around 30 minutes).
Use a scraper to gently eliminate the dissolved paint and gloss layer, taking care not to damage the underlying surface. It is important to note that paint stripper is a chemical solution that can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Step 4: Prime and Paint
Once you remove the gloss layer from the surface, apply a primer before painting. Primer creates a smooth base for your paint and helps ensure proper topcoat adhesion.
After applying the primer, you can paint the surface with a semi-gloss paint. Apply two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next. Once you have applied your desired number of coats, let the paint dry for at least 24 hours before using or touching it.
3 Tips for Achieving a Smooth and Even Finish
- The type of tools you use can greatly affect the finish of your project. A quality brush or sprayer will ensure an even coat, while a poor brush can leave bristle marks or streaks behind. Take the time to select the appropriate tool for the job, and invest in high-quality brushes if necessary.
- A thick layer of paint or stain can cause drips, uneven color, and a rough texture. Instead, apply thin, even coats and allow the finish to dry completely before applying another layer. This will ensure a consistent finish that looks smooth and professional.
- Sanding between coats helps to smooth out any imperfections in the finish, such as brush marks or drips, and promotes better adhesion for the next layer. Use a fine-grit sandpaper, and be careful not to sand through the finish.