How to Fix a Bubbling Ceiling in Bathroom

Bubbles in your bathroom ceiling are caused by excess moisture in the ceiling itself or while the ceiling was being painted. If you have a leak in your ceiling, you will see the paint start to bubble. Fix the leak before you begin repairing the ceiling. The best way to fix the ceiling is to start over. This ensures that you have a ceiling that lasts for years without needing to be repainted.

Things You'll Need

• Safety goggles
• Gloves
• Mask
• Hat
• Gel paint remover
• Wide putty knife
• Old towels or paper towels
• Paint brushes
• Bleach
• Bucket
• Sponge rollers
• Primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Remove the paint by applying a gel paint remover with a bristle brush and letting it sit on the surface according to the package instructions. Wear gloves, goggles, a mask and a hat as you work to avoid getting paint remover on your skin if it drips down. Gel paint remover sticks to the surface better than other paint removers, so it is a good choice for ceilings.

2. Scrape the paint off with a wide putty knife. Wipe the blade off on old towels or paper towels as you work, to contain the mess. Continue working until all the paint is removed.

3. Neutralize the paint remover, according to package instructions. Vinegar or a commercial neutralizer are often recommended. However, some gel paint removers are organic, and you only need to wash it off with plain water. Let the ceiling dry thoroughly.

4. Wash the ceiling with a solution of 1 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water to kill any mold or mildew that is forming. Allow it to dry completely.

5. Apply a primer designed for high humidity areas to the ceiling, using sponge rollers with extension rods and a bristle brush for around the edges. Oil-based primer works well on ceilings, but many latex alternatives are available. Read the instructions on the primer before purchasing it to ensure that it is suited to moist bathrooms.

6. Allow the primer to cure according to package instructions. Do not add moisture to the bathroom by showering or bathing during this time. If the primer does not cure long enough or gets too moist, bubble occurs. Follow the package instructions. Oil-based primer can take several days to cure, while some latex paint is ready in under 24 hours.

7. Paint the ceiling as you did with the primer. Use a sponge roller with an extension rod and bristle brush to cut in the paint. Allow the paint to cure according to the package instructions. Apply a second coat. Use a paint that is compatible with your primer. Oil-based primers work with both latex and oil-based paint if you buy compatible products.

Tips & Warnings

• Roll up a towel and put it behind your neck as you paint to avoid getting a sore neck.

• You can use latex paint with oil-based primer if you choose products that are compatible with each other. It is best to buy the same brand and to read the instructions carefully. Oil-based primer is an excellent option for bathrooms because it resists humidity well.

• Use a fan or open a window while bathing to reduce the amount of humidity in the bathroom.

• Do not bathe in the bathroom until both the primer and paint have cured completely or bubbles will form.

• Always work in a well-ventilated area, and take frequent breaks while painting.

References

• The Complete Guide to Finishing Walls & Ceilings; Creative Publishing International
• Do-It-Yourself Housebuilding: The Complete Handbook; George Nash
• Black & Decker Complete Home Repair; Creative Publishing international
• Old House Interiors: Walls and Ceilings, Paints and Finishes