Paint Bubbling on Walls – What Causes It?
Paint bubbling or blistering on walls is often one of the first visible signs of a damp problem within a property. When moisture becomes trapped behind paint or plaster, it can cause the painted surface to lift, bubble or peel away from the wall.
Although repainting the wall may temporarily hide the issue, the underlying moisture problem will usually cause the paint to bubble again if the cause of damp is not identified and addressed.
Several types of damp problems can lead to paint bubbling on walls, including condensation, penetrating damp and rising damp.
What Does Paint Bubbling on Walls Look Like?
Paint bubbling often appears as raised areas or small blisters on painted wall surfaces. In some cases the paint may begin to crack, peel or flake away from the wall.
The plaster beneath the paint may also feel damp or soft to the touch. Over time, the affected area may spread as moisture continues to build within the wall.
Paint Bubbling from Condensation
Condensation is a common cause of paint bubbling in homes. When warm, humid air comes into contact with colder wall surfaces, moisture forms on the wall and may soak into paint and plaster.
Over time, repeated condensation can cause paint to blister or bubble. This type of problem is often seen in bedrooms, bathrooms and areas with limited ventilation.
Paint Bubbling Caused by Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp occurs when water enters the building fabric through external defects such as damaged brickwork, cracked render, leaking gutters or roof problems.
Moisture entering the wall from outside can cause paint finishes inside the property to bubble or peel as the wall absorbs water.
These problems often worsen during periods of heavy rainfall.
Paint Bubbling from Rising Damp
In some properties, paint bubbling near the base of walls may be linked to rising damp. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels upward through masonry.
This can damage plaster, paint and timber skirting boards. Salt deposits may also appear on wall surfaces as moisture evaporates.
When Paint Bubbling Should Be Investigated
If paint bubbling continues to reappear after redecorating or begins to spread across a wall, it may indicate an ongoing moisture problem.
Professional damp surveys use specialist equipment to identify moisture sources and determine whether condensation, penetrating damp or rising damp is responsible.
Book a Damp Survey for Paint Bubbling on Walls
If you are experiencing paint bubbling on walls in your home, Dampline provides professional damp surveys across Durham and surrounding areas.
Our damp surveys identify the exact cause of moisture problems so the correct solution can be recommended.
Book a damp survey today to investigate paint bubbling and other damp issues within your property.