top of page

Peeling or Bubbling Wall Paint? Here’s the Cause & How to Fix It (2026)

  • Nabiha Az
  • Nov 24
  • 3 min read

Index


Professional house painter repainting peeling wall in living room

Introduction

Is your wall paint peeling or bubbling? That’s a serious issue you need to fix quickly.

Peeling or bubbling paint isn’t just a cosmetic problem—it could indicate underlying issues like moisture, leaks, or poor-quality paint. This article covers the main causes, solutions, and prevention tips.


1. What Does Peeling & Bubbling Paint Mean?

Two common types of wall damage in Malaysian homes.

Peeling: Paint flakes and falls off the wall surface. Bubbling: Paint forms air bubbles and can easily come off when pressed.

Both issues often appear on exterior or interior walls, especially in damp areas.

Home painting contractor repairing bubbling paint in white living room wall

2. Causes of Peeling & Bubbling Paint

Identify the root cause before repainting.

  • Excess moisture:

    Water seeps in from outside or due to interior leaks—common in bathrooms, kitchens, or exterior walls.

  • Old paint not cleaned before repainting:

    Existing paint wasn't prepped properly.

  • Painting on a wet surface:

    Paint was applied on damp walls or after rain.

  • Wrong or low-quality paint:

    Cheap paint lacks adhesion and weathers poorly in Malaysia's climate.

  • Pipe or rainwater leaks:

    Hidden leaks allow moisture to seep into walls.


Painter in Penang providing indoor painting service in Kuala Lumpur

Restore the surface and prevent future problems.

  • Scrape off all peeling paint using a scraper or wire brush

  • Clean the surface thoroughly from dirt, mold, and grease

  • Dry completely (use a fan or leave overnight)

  • Apply a moisture-resistant primer as the base coat

  • Choose high-quality paint (Nippon Weatherbond, Jotun Majestic, Dulux Weathershield))


4. How to Fix Bubbling Paint

  • Puncture and remove bubbles with a spatula

  • Sand down the area for a smooth finish

  • Ensure there is no hidden moisture inside the wall

  • Use filler if needed to level the surface

  • Repaint only when the wall is fully dry

Malaysian home painting contractor working in a living room in Klang

5. Tips to Prevent Paint Problems in the Future

Prevention is better than costly repairs.

  • Use paint suitable for Malaysia’s climate—moisture and UV resistant

  • Choose SIRIM-certified, anti-mold paint

  • Avoid painting during rain or on damp surfaces

  • Check for leaks in pipes and walls regularly

  • Ensure proper ventilation for your home’s walls


Did You Know?

Market research shows that over 45% of paint issues in Malaysian homes are due to moisture, not just cheap paint. A combination of high-quality paint and professional painting techniques can extend your paint’s lifespan up to 10 years!

Painter in Johor Bahru repainting exterior wall of a weathered home

Conclusion

Peeling or bubbling paint can be prevented and fixed with proper understanding and technique. Don’t wait until your walls look terrible to act. Use quality paint and hire professionals for long-lasting, beautiful results.


FAQs

1. How often should I repaint my home?

Exterior: Every 5–7 years.Interior: Up to 10 years with premium paint.

2. Can I paint over old paint?

Yes, but only if the old paint is intact and not peeling. Make sure it’s clean and properly prepped.

3. What paint is suitable for Malaysia’s humid weather?

Use anti-moisture, anti-mold, and UV-resistant paint like Dulux Weathershield or Nippon Weatherbond.

4. Why does new paint peel quickly?

Likely because the wall was still damp or had hidden moisture.

5. Do I need undercoat/primer for normal walls?

Highly recommended—especially for new walls or damaged old paint.


🎨 No need for major renovations! Get fast, affordable and beautiful indoor & outdoor painting services — ready in just 5 hours!

💥 LIMITED PROMO! Prices from only RM3.50/sqft using premium paint from Nippon, Dulux & Jotun.

✅ Weatherproof exterior paint

✅ Clean, odorless interior paint safe for kids

✅ Skilled & fast team, available nationwide

🏠 Ideal for old homes, new homes, apartments, homestays & small projects

📞 Click to Book Now or WhatsApp us for a FREE quote — refresh your walls today!



 
 
 

Comments


Make Your Home More Beautiful Today!

Does your house look dull? Don't wait any longer. For only RM3.50/sqft, your house can be transformed into a modern, radiant & value-increasing home.

📲 Click WhatsApp now → free quotation + quick 5 minute reply.

010-888 9849

Cat bumbung rumah warna merah tahan cuaca panas hujan Malaysia
Warna cat dalam rumah nampak luas dengan putih cream natural tone
Cat siling rumah ruang tamu dengan cat putih kemas dan tahan lama

Tel: +010-888 9849

Email: catrumahmalaysia@gmail.com

HQ : S-U1-02, Bistari Condominium, Jalan 1/64d, JALAN PUTRA, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

bottom of page