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The most common reason paint peels is because moisture gets trapped underneath it and disrupts its bond with the wall. Other causes for peeling paint include a poor original paint job, painting over a surface with dirt or other foreign material on it, or applying paint coats that are too thick.

First off, take a breath. The good news is that interior paint, especially when used outside, won’t harm your health. The bad news is that you’re going to have to reapply the proper exterior paint at some point in the not-so-distant future. Otherwise the current coat will chip, crack, and fade, or worse, develop mold or an insect infestation without remediation.

With patience, you can often save a dried paintbrush. Soak the bristles overnight and clean the brush as you would any other time. You'll likely have to repeat the cleaning steps, including soaking, more than once.

Yes, you can paint over old exterior paint, but success depends on the condition of the existing paint and proper surface preparation. If the previous coating is in good shape (not cracked, peeling, or flaky), you can paint over it with less prep work. However, for the most durable and professional-looking results, follow these key preparation steps:

• Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the exterior to remove all dirt, grime, and mildew. A pressure washer can be very effective for this.

• Scrape and Sand: If the old paint is peeling, cracked, or flaky, you must scrape off all loose paint. After scraping, sand the surface to create a smooth, even base for the new paint. Sanding is especially important for wood siding.

• Apply Primer: Using a quality exterior primer is highly recommended. It ensures the new paint adheres properly, improves durability, and provides a uniform finish. If you are painting a lighter color over a dark one, a tinted primer will help cover the old color more effectively.

Some brands offer paint-and-primer-in-one products for convenience. Taking the time to prepare the surface properly will not only increase your home's curb appeal but also help protect your siding and extend its life.