Painting over failing old paint is one of the most common causes of peeling and blistering. In 2026, testing adhesion before you start helps you decide whether a simple repaint is enough or whether the old coating needs to be removed first.
Simple Ways to Test Paint Adhesion
- The Tape Test
Press strong adhesive tape firmly onto the wall, then pull it off quickly. If large amounts of paint come off, adhesion is poor. - The Scratch Test
Gently scratch the surface with a coin or key in an inconspicuous area. If the paint flakes or peels easily, it is not sound. - Visual Inspection
Look for cracking, chalking, blistering, or areas where the paint is already lifting.
What to Do Based on Results
- Good adhesion → Clean, prime if needed, and repaint
- Poor adhesion → Remove loose paint, sand, and use a suitable bonding primer
Unsure if your old walls are ready for a new coat of paint?
Send us photos of the walls → we’ll advise on the best preparation and send free A4 samples of Prestige paints.