How to Paint in a Wet Area

Help! The paint on the walls and ceiling above my shower is cracking and peeling. The bathroom does have a vent fan. Can you suggest proper ventilation of the wallboard, the type of undercoat, and the type of paint (oil, water, enamel)?


Your problem is not an unfamiliar one. The condition you are experiencing is caused by the steam and moisture generated by hot showers. All that airborne moisture will cause the painted surfaces to deteriorate if they have not been properly prepared or if the paint used is not specifically designed to be used in a "wet" area. A wet area is an area or room in the house that is susceptible to dampness- the laundry, bath or kitchen, for example. Your best bet for a finish coat in areas like these is an alkyd or oil-base enamel. It will not only hold up to dampness, but the surface will be easy to clean as well. The oil-base enamel is available in semi-gloss (satin) or high-gloss (shiny) finishes.

As with any painting project, the real secret to success is polyvinyl acrylic (PVA) sealer or a fresh coat of oil-base enamel over an existing coat of enamel. This will help to ensure a proper and permanent bond of the two products. If the existing surface is badly cracked and peeling, you will want to do extensive repair work by scraping off all loose paint and filling in any cracks or voids with a spackling paste or drywall compound. You may have to repeat this last step several times, sanding after each application to provide for an attractive and uniform surface. NOTE: When taking a hot-and-steamy shower, make sure to have either the vent fan on or a window open during - and immediately after - the shower to draw out the steam. This will help paint to last longer and prevent...