Your trim is one of the first things people notice about your home. If it’s peeling, cracking, or flaking, it’s not just cosmetic—it’s a red flag that your exterior is exposed to the elements. But before you break out the ladder and a bucket of paint, you need a plan.
Here’s how to paint peeling exterior trim the right way—with expert insight from Winnipeg’s trusted pros at Integrity Painting.
Why Does Exterior Trim Paint Peel?
Before we fix it, let’s understand it. Peeling trim usually comes down to one of four things:
- Moisture intrusion: Rain, snow, and dew seep behind trim or into cracks, lifting paint from the surface.
- Improper prep: Painting over dirt, mildew, or old flaky paint means your new coat won’t stick.
- Wrong primer or paint type: Mixing oil and latex layers or skipping primer entirely is a recipe for failure.
- Sun exposure: UV rays dry out wood and fade or blister paint, especially on south-facing walls.
Want to avoid repainting every 2 years? Read more about our residential painting process
Step 1: Inspect & Identify Damage
Look closely at all trim—especially windows, doors, and fascia boards. Use a screwdriver to press into soft areas. If the wood gives, you might have rot (which paint can’t fix).
- Light peeling = scrape, patch, prime, paint
- Severe peeling or soft wood = replace damaged trim first
Need expert help? Get in touch with Integrity Painting for a quote on full prep + paint service.
Step 2: Clean and Dry the Surface
Wash the trim with a mix of water, TSP (trisodium phosphate), and bleach to remove grime, mold, and mildew. Rinse well. Allow at least 24–48 hours to dry. Moisture is the #1 enemy of adhesion.
- Pro tip: Use a moisture meter. Aim for less than 15% moisture before painting.
Want the job to last? Learn how our process prevents premature peeling
Step 3: Scrape, Sand & Feather Edges
Scrape all loose paint with a pull scraper or Bahco triangle blade. Then feather rough edges with 80–120 grit sandpaper to blend the paint into bare wood.
- If you’re concerned about lead paint (pre-1978 homes), consult a pro. Disturbing lead paint can be hazardous.
- Set any raised nails and fill divots with exterior-grade putty.
Curious what it looks like done right? Check our before & after gallery
Step 4: Spot Prime & Seal
Apply an oil-based or high-bonding primer (like Zinsser or Sherwin-Williams Peel Bond) over bare spots and filled areas. This locks down edges and ensures even coverage.
- Always prime exposed wood, fillers, and sanded transitions.
- Caulk gaps after priming, never before.
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Step 5: Paint with High-Performance Products
Now for the fun part: painting. Use a premium acrylic latex exterior paint with UV protection (e.g., Sherwin-Williams Emerald). Apply two coats for durability.
- Brush into crevices first, then roll or brush large areas.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight or just before rain.
Ready to skip the stress? Let Integrity Painting handle the hard parts
Q&A: Common Questions About Painting Peeling Exterior Trim
Q: Can I just paint over peeling trim without sanding?
A: No. Paint will not adhere to loose or flaky surfaces. You must remove all loose paint and prep the area.
Q: What kind of primer works best on peeling trim?
A: A high-bonding primer like Peel Stop or oil-based primer is ideal for locking down edges and improving adhesion.
Q: How long should exterior trim paint last?
A: With proper prep and premium products, expect 5–10 years of protection.
Q: What if I see bubbling after painting?
A: Bubbling means moisture was trapped. Always let surfaces dry completely and don’t paint in humid or wet weather.
Conclusion: Better Prep = Longer Lasting Paint Painting peeling exterior trim isn’t a weekend paint-and-go. It’s a process—one that demands smart prep, dry conditions, and professional-grade products. Done right, it can refresh your curb appeal for years to come.
Live in Winnipeg or nearby? Let Integrity Painting bring your trim back to life with long-lasting, high-quality finishes that withstand the prairie seasons.
Why Winnipeg Homeowners Trust Integrity Painting for Exterior Trim That Lasts
Peeling trim isn’t just an eyesore — it’s a warning sign your home is vulnerable to weather, rot, and more costly damage. At Integrity Painting, we treat your exterior trim with the care it deserves, using proven prep techniques, premium products, and expert craftsmanship that stands up to Winnipeg’s harshest seasons.
Since 1992, homeowners across Winnipeg have turned to us for results that go beyond the brush — because we don’t just paint over problems, we fix them at the root.
✅ 30+ Years of Experience in Manitoba Weather
✅ Red Seal-Certified Painters
✅ Durable Primers, Premium Finishes
✅ No-Surprise Quotes and Full Surface Prep
✅ Guaranteed Satisfaction with Daily Jobsite Cleanups
If your trim is peeling, cracking, or fading, don’t settle for another quick coat. Choose the team that gets it done right — the first time.
📞 Call (431) 446-6148 or Book Your Free Exterior Estimate Today
🎨 Explore Our Exterior Painting Services
Integrity Painting — Professional Prep. Polished Results. Proven Trust.
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