Can You Fix Bubbling Paint?

Can you fix bubbling paint? Discover how to restore your walls.

Bubbling or blistering paint can be frustrating, especially when you’ve just finished a fresh paint job. Whether it’s caused by moisture, poor prep, or extreme temperatures, bubbling paint doesn’t just look bad, it can also indicate deeper problems with your surface or environment. The good news? You can fix bubbling paint and prevent it from coming back with the right approach.

Here’s everything you need to know to fix bubbling paint inside or outside your home.

How to Get Rid of Air Bubbles on Painted Walls

Air bubbles often form when paint is applied too thickly, on a dirty or damp surface, or in hot, humid conditions. To repair these unsightly bumps:

1. Wait until the paint has fully dried. Working on wet paint can make bubbling worse.
2. Scrape away bubbled sections with a putty knife or scraper.
3. Sand the area smooth to remove rough edges.
4. Wipe clean and allow the surface to dry.
5. Apply a primer to ensure the new paint adheres properly.
6. Repaint the area using thin, even coats in a well-ventilated space.

Avoid rushing—proper drying time between coats will help prevent future bubbling.

How to Fix Bubbling Paint from Water Damage

If water is to blame, fixing bubbling paint requires extra attention. Before you repaint, you’ll need to locate and fix the source of the moisture—whether it’s a leaking pipe, roof, or persistent humidity. Once that’s handled:

1. Scrape away all bubbled paint with a putty knife.
2. Let the surface dry completely. Use a dehumidifier or fan if necessary.
3. Apply a stain-blocking primer to seal moisture and prevent discoloration.
4. Repaint with high-quality, moisture-resistant paint, especially in bathrooms, basements, or kitchens.

Repairing Bubbled or Blistered Paint

If the bubbling is more widespread or has cracked open, here’s a simple repair method:

1. Scrape off all the affected paint.
2. Fill holes or cracks with patching compound and let it dry overnight.
3. Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth surface.
4. Clean and dry the area before priming.
5. Prime and repaint in ideal conditions—between 50–85°F, with good ventilation.

This extra care ensures that your new paint adheres properly and lasts longer.

Can Paint Bubbling Be Prevented Long-Term?

Yes! Preventing bubbling paint comes down to preparation, timing, and using the right materials:

• Always clean, dry, and prime surfaces before painting.
• Avoid painting in high humidity or direct sunlight.
• Use quality paints and primers suited for your space and climate.
• Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Maintain proper ventilation and manage indoor moisture levels year-round.

With these steps, you’ll reduce the risk of bubbling and enjoy smooth, durable results.

Interior vs. Exterior Paint Bubbling: What’s the Difference?

The cause of paint bubbling depends on where it occurs:

• Interior bubbling is often due to trapped moisture, poor surface prep, or applying paint on dirty or greasy walls, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Exterior bubbling typically happens because of intense sun exposure, rain, or improper curing, especially on wood siding.

In both cases, the key is to use paint formulated for that environment and to follow proper prep and application techniques.

When to Call a Professional Painter

If you’ve tried to fix bubbling paint but the problem keeps returning—or if water damage is extensive—it’s best to call a professional. An experienced painting contractor can identify the root cause, recommend the right materials, and ensure your walls look flawless again.

With expert prep work and high-quality primers and paints, a pro can help you achieve a smooth, bubble-free finish that lasts for years.

Ready to Fix Your Bubbling Paint for Good? Whether you’re dealing with small air bubbles or larger water damage, the right repair process can restore your walls to perfection. And if you’d rather skip the stress, call your local painting professionals for help—they’ll make sure your next paint job is smooth, even, and built to last.

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443-319-4001

Expect the same one-stop shopping for all your decorating needs. We are a full-service Benjamin Moore dealer offering the best quality decorating products at the best prices. We have an ample supply of paint and paint supplies, wallcoverings, custom window treatments, fabrics, and now NEW flooring selections from Kaleen Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Tile samples. 

And, of course, the same excellent customer service, knowledge, and customer satisfaction that you’ve come to expect.

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