How Do I Paint Previously Painted Wax Surfaces?
Painting over waxed wood generally isn't recommended. Unlike paint or clear finish, wax never completely cures. The solvents in oil paint will soften it, leaving a tacky finish, and wax prevents water-based varnishes from bonding to the wood surface, causing eventual peeling.
Remove Soft Wax
Even if you're considering painting, you shouldn't do it over soft wax or furniture polish. To determine whether the wax is soft, try to scrape off a little with your fingernail -- if you're successful, the wax is too soft to paint and should be removed. Remove it with mineral spirits.
Painting Over Hard Wax
If the wax is hard enough to paint over, etch and scuff it before painting. Clean with Tikkurila's Cleaning Agent.
Prime with Otex Adhesion Primer
Topcoat Options
- Everal Aqua 10, Everal Aqua 40 or Everal Aqua 80, depending on sheen level required
- Helmi 10, Helmi 30 or Helmi 80, depending on sheen level required
- Empire Furniture Paint
If you require more advice on painting over waxy surfaces, give our technical team a call on 0131 334 4999 or send them a message here
