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How to Repair Paint Chip on Walls

L. Scott Pishko

Having walls in your home that have chipped paint may take less effort than you think to fix. Repairing the walls that are chipping will take more time preparing than the actual painting.

Preparing the walls properly before starting to paint is the most important step in fixing the problem for good and having a durable and long-lasting finish.

  1. Scrape the area of the chipped paint with a putty knife. To avoid gouging the wall make sure you keep the knife blade flush to the wall. Use a small brush to wipe away the chippings from the wall.

  2. Scour the area with a 100-grit sandpaper until the chips are gone and the wall is smooth to the touch.

  3. Wipe a clean tack cloth over the entire area to remove dust and debris from the area.

  4. Spray primer on the wall in the area where you have done the repairs. Use sweeping left-to-right motions to avoid runs on the wall.

  5. Open the paint can with a paint can opener and stir it with the wooden stirrer. Pour the paint into the paint tray.

  6. Add the matching colored paint to the wall using a 4-to-6-inch paintbrush. Feather the color into the already painted section around the area to blend the colors. Let the paint dry for the recommended time suggested on the paint can.

  7. Apply a second coat to the repaired area on the wall if needed. The area of repair should match the rest of the wall in color and texture. The second coat should be applied the same way as the initial coat. Allow the second coat to dry.

  8. Review the wall in 24 hours to make sure it is dry and matches the rest of the wall before hanging pictures or shelving in the area in which you have repaired.

  9. Tip

    Wear a dust mask when repairing the wall. This will protect you from the dust and fumes.