Can you use latex paint to paint over chalk paint that has been waxed?

Cheryl Mills
by Cheryl Mills
  3 answers
  • Helen Bleazard Helen Bleazard on Aug 14, 2018

    Hi there - found this bit of info for you!!!!Before painting over the chalk paint, the wax MUST be removed.

    Wax acts a resist, and just about any paint you put over wax will not adhere well. The new paint may stick initially, but long term it will have poor adhesion and may come off with the slightest scratch.

    How to Remove Furniture Wax:

    Taking off furniture wax is not a difficult process, but is a little time consuming and a bit messy.

    The best way to remove the wax is to scrub the piece of furniture with a slightly abrasive sponge and mineral spirits. The mineral spirits will break down the wax and as you scrub the wax will start to pull away from the paint.

    After you scrub the whole piece, wipe off any residue with a wet rag. Then you will need to give the entire surface a light sanding with a mid-grit sandpaper (180-ish) to remove any possible residue or wax left after your cleaning.

    Is the finish free of grease or dirt?

    If you’ve done the wax scratch test and you didn’t find any evidence of wax, there still may be something else on your furniture that may cause you problems.

    Over time, grease and grime tend to build up on furniture and if not properly cleaned before painting, the new paint will have problems sticking.

    You want to spray down your piece and with a mildly abrasive sponge, scrub the entire surface. Pay careful attention to any areas that feel like there is a residue or where the finish looks dark or discolored–those are likely areas of built-up grease and grime.

    After you scrub the piece with your cleaner, wipe off any residue with a water-dampened rag.

    Hope this helps

  • Jenni Ingram Jenni Ingram on Aug 14, 2018

    Yes, you must remove the wax. The best dissolver is mineral spirits and a scotch brite pad. It will take some elbow grease and maybe a few tries, but it should take off the wax before you do your prep sanding.

  • Cheryl Mills Cheryl Mills on Aug 14, 2018

    Thank you.