How to Fix Peeling Drywall on a Bathroom Ceiling

Bathrooms are humid environments that can cause low-quality paint to peel. The peeling usually occurs high in the corners and on the ceiling where moisture collects. You can limit the repair to the peeling areas, but it's better to repaint the entire ceiling.

Things You'll Need

• Scraper
• Joint compound
• Trowel
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Towels
• Latex primer
• Bathroom paint (polymethyl methacrylate base)
• Paintbrushes

Instructions

1. Peel off any loose paint. Use a scraper to remove large chips.

2. Fill the exposed areas with joint compound. Use a trowel to smooth the compound to make it flush with the rest of the ceiling.

3. Sand the joint compound. Get the surface as smooth as possible.

4. Wipe the surface with a dry towel to remove dust and particles that remain from sanding.

5. Apply the latex primer to the ceiling. Use thin coats to prevent dripping. Allow the primer to dry for at least six hours.

6. Apply the bathroom paint. Allow it to dry for at least 24 hours, then apply a second coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure the paint is polymethyl methacrylate base, not PVA base. PVA base paints are subject to cracking, chipping and peeling in humid spaces.

References

• House Painting Information