Why Your Paint is Peeling — And How to Fix It

Why Your Paint is Peeling — And How to Fix It

Peeling Paint Isn’t Just Ugly — It’s a Warning Sign

If you’re starting to notice flakes, chips, or entire sections of paint coming off your walls or siding, don’t ignore it. Peeling paint is one of the most common problems we see in homes around Chico, CA, and while it may seem cosmetic, it usually points to a bigger issue.

Whether it's exterior siding or interior walls, peeling paint means your surface is no longer protected — and it's time to take action before the damage spreads.

What Causes Paint to Peel?

Paint peels when it loses adhesion to the surface underneath. Here are the most common reasons why:

• Moisture: Water sneaks behind the paint due to roof leaks, plumbing issues, or poor ventilation

• Poor surface prep: Dirt, dust, or grease left behind causes weak bonding

• Skipping primer: Primer helps paint stick and seals porous surfaces — skipping it leads to failure

• Low-quality paint: Cheap paint lacks the ingredients to handle heat, sun, or humidity

• Paint applied too thickly or before previous coats dried properly

Where Peeling Happens Most

Different areas of your home are more vulnerable to peeling:

• Exterior siding facing direct sunlight

• Window trim or fascia boards exposed to rain

• Bathrooms or kitchens with poor ventilation

• Older homes with multiple paint layers or hidden water damage

If you live in Chico, homes with stucco or wood siding are especially prone to peeling if not sealed correctly.

How to Fix Peeling Paint Like a Pro

You can’t just paint over peeling — it will keep happening unless the problem is fixed at the root. Here’s the right way to do it:

1. Identify and repair the source of moisture (leaks, plumbing, or poor ventilation)

2. Scrape off all peeling or flaking paint with a paint scraper or putty knife

3. Sand the area smooth with medium-to-fine grit sandpaper

4. Clean the surface to remove dust, grease, or mildew

5. Prime the surface with the right primer for the material

6. Repaint using high-quality exterior or interior paint — apply in even coats and allow proper drying time

Trying to skip any of these steps will result in peeling all over again.

When to Call a Professional

If the peeling is widespread, especially on high or hard-to-reach areas, or if you suspect water damage behind the walls, it’s best to let a licensed painter handle it. We have the tools and knowledge to:

• Diagnose what’s really causing the peeling

• Use industrial-grade prep and primers

• Repair damage before it worsens

• Match your existing paint color perfectly

At Vilchis Painting Company, we’ve restored dozens of homes around Chico by fixing peeling paint the right way — no shortcuts, no guesswork.

Tired of peeling paint that keeps coming back?
Contact us today and let us restore your home’s finish once and for all.