How to Repaint a Baseboard That Has Glossy Paint

Repainting glossy baseboards requires correct preparation to ensure the new paint will adhere.

While semigloss and high-gloss paints are great for protecting high-impact areas like doors and baseboards, they can be a pain to repaint. As with nearly any painting job, the critical part of this project is spending the time to properly prep the baseboard before recoating. Don't even think about repainting directly over the glossy paint, because the new paint will not adhere correctly and will end up streaking and cracking. Instead, take the time to scuff sand the glossy paint, clean it thoroughly and prime the baseboard -- this will ensure that your new paint job looks great and lasts for years.

Things You'll Need

• Respirator
• Drop cloth
• 100- to 120-grit sandpaper
• Cloth
• Mineral spirits
• Angled paintbrush
• Paintbrush
• Paint shield
• Primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Put on the respirator. Always protect your lungs by wearing a respirator during sanding and painting.

2. Scuff sand the baseboard using 100- to 120-grit sandpaper. The purpose of scuff sanding isn't to get all of the paint off -- instead, by sanding lightly with the grain of the wood, you give the new paint something to adhere to.

3. Clean the baseboard vigorously with a damp cloth or a cloth dampened with mineral spirits. Let the baseboard dry thoroughly and make sure all sand and other loose foreign substances are completely removed from the baseboard.

4. Lay the drop cloth below the baseboard, making sure it completely covers the flooring.

5. Apply the primer to the top of the baseboard with an angled brush, using the paint shield to protect the wall above the baseboard. Then, carefully apply the primer to the bottom of the baseboard with the angled brush, using the paint shield to protect the flooring if necessary.

6. Prime the middle portion of the baseboard, using the standard brush. Use long strokes to feather the wet primer into the top and bottom of the baseboard to prevent streaks. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6, using the angled brush and paint shield to apply paint to the top and bottom of the baseboard, then the standard brush to paint the middle portion. Make sure to feather the wet paint into the top and bottom sections of the baseboard to prevent streaking.

8. Allow the paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, then add another coat of paint to the baseboard. Allow the baseboard to dry completely before removing the drop cloths.

References

• Purdue University EPICS; Baseboard and Trim Painting; 2000

Resources

• Utah State University Cooperative Extension; Selecting Paint; Dr. Leona Hawks