How to paint over watermarks – 5 simple steps professionals use

Unsightly watermarks ruin the look of walls and ceilings. Often showing as yellow or rust-brown stains resulting from a leaking pipe or roof leak, it can be tempting to slap some paint over the top and call it a day. These persistent marks will simply seep back through, however – even if the source of the leak is resolved.

So, how do you paint over watermarks? To prevent these marks from haunting your paintwork, experts recommend following these five essential steps for painting walls, cornice, and ceilings.

How to paint over watermarks  

The key to successfully painting over watermarks is to complete good prep before applying any layer of paint. This guide takes you through the steps.  

1. Ensure the source of the leak has been fixed

Any attempts to paint over a watermark should begin with fixing ceiling leaks, or leaks in walls, says Tam Tran, home improvement writer at home blog Daily Dream Decor. Locate the source of the stains. It could be a leaky roof, pipe, or even a one-off spill. Address any underlying issues and allow the area to dry completely before trying to paint, he says. 

‘It is also important to make sure the water did not damage the sheetrock or wood that is stained,’ adds Matt Stone, professional painter and founder of Hometown Painting. ‘Push on the surface with your finger or another firm object. If it is easily dented, that section or board should be replaced.’

It could be a good idea to use a good dehumidifier to help dry the area out quickly to prevent mold from making the situation worse.

Matt Stone

Matt Stone is a second-generation professional painter and co-founder of Hometown painting Oklahoma. An expert in his field, Matt is adept at a painting over water stains and marks.

2. Clean and sand the dried area

Once you know the leak is fixed, it's time to clean and sand. Whether you are repairing a stained wall, or fixing a ceiling with water damage, a top tip is to clean and sand the dried area before priming, says Rick Hernandes, founder of Sepi Painting & Waterproofing. 

‘Use a solution of equal parts water and bleach to clean the affected area as this will help remove any mold or mildew that may have grown on the surface,’ he explains. ‘Once dried, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface of the area you will be painting. This will help create a more even surface and ensure the paint adheres properly.’ 

3. Apply a layer or two of paint-blocking primer

Primers are always recommended when preparing walls for painting if you want a professional finish, but they are essential when trying to paint over watermarks, too.

‘Don’t cut corners! Using a primer is important when painting over water stains because it helps to seal the stain and prevent it from showing through the topcoat of paint,’ explains Tam Tran, home improvement specialist. ‘Without a primer, the stain can bleed through the paint and cause discoloration and unevenness. A stain-blocking primer is specifically designed to prevent this from happening and ensure a smooth, even finish.’

There are four types of watermark primers that you can pick from, with each one offering a different degree of coverage, continues professional painter Rick Hernandez:

• Oil-based primers: This is a good option for severe water damage, as it provides excellent coverage and seals the surface effectively. However, it does have a strong odor and takes longer to dry. 
• Shellac-based primers: This is a great option for smaller stains or for surfaces that may be difficult to paint, such as wood or wallpaper. It dries quickly and seals the stain effectively. 
• Stain-blocking primers: This type of primer is specifically designed to block stains and prevent them from bleeding through the paint. It is a good option for moderate water damage.
• Latex primers: This is a water-based primer that is easy to clean up and dries quickly. It can be used for minor water damage and on surfaces such as drywall and plaster. 

‘Some popular options include Kilz Original, Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3, and Sherwin-Williams Multi-Purpose Latex Primer,’ says Tam Tran.

4. Follow up with paint

Once you have treated the area with a layer or two of primer, depending on the size of the stain, it is time to finish with a layer of paint. Try to match your paint to the paint finish and color already on the wall by taking a paint chip sample to a local paint matching service, suggests Rick Hernandez, a professional painter. 

‘Depending on the severity of the water stain, you may need to apply a second coat of paint. Be sure to allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.’ 

FAQs

Painting over watermarks is not difficult to do yourself and is a good job done – much like sealing over any cracks or cleaning windows, it will make the space feel cared for. Following these five steps as soon as you see a watermark will ensure that the watermark is sealed for good, and save you time and money in the future.