How to Paint over Existing Oil Paint in Your Home

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Determine the type of paint previously used.

   Water/latex based paint will come off when rubbed with alcohol on a cotton ball, oil and lead will not.
   
   If it is oil or lead, the only way to tell the difference is to send a sample in to a lab to be tested. (It is not known if home test kits are actually reliable.) Look online for a reputable company, check with the Better Business Bureau.
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   Step 2: If the existing paint is lead-based

   Check local regulations before continuing. ,,, For best results, apply a second coat of paint after the first coat dries.
   
   If desired, the paint store can tint your primer to within a few shades of the paint you will use as your top coat, which will help to hide the primer if you miss a spot, but this isn't generally necessary.
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   Step 3: the local building codes in your area may require you to remove all existing paint before repainting.

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   Step 4: If the existing paint is latex-based

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   Step 5: you may simply paint right over it using latex paint.

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   Step 6: If the existing paint is oil-based

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   Step 7: you should first paint the room with one or two coats of a oil-based primer.

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   Step 8: Allow the primer to dry for at least a day or two (see instructions on your particular paint)

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   Step 9: and then paint your top coat.

Detailed Guide

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