Can you paint matt over gloss?

The walls in the hallway have been done in gloss and I want to switch to matt emulsion. Do I need to sand the whole thing back first or can matt go straight over?

Asked by Lou on 21st Jun 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"Yes, you can paint matte over gloss, but because gloss is slick and non-porous, the new paint will peel right off unless you prep the surface first. You must sand away the shine, apply a bonding primer, and use the right type of paint."
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Jun 2026 - report
"the only way you could paint matt over gloss is to give a light rub down first so the matt can stick/key to the gloss you would also need to use a dusting brush tack cloths to remove loose dust from surface otherwise this will roll up into nibs/bits when you apply the matt emulsion paint."
Answered on 22nd Jun 2026 - Member since Jun 2024 - report
"Yes you need to sand (key) the whole area so that the Matt emulsion can grip to the walls, also the area is cleaned and free of dust"
Answered on 23rd Jun 2026 - Member since May 2026 - report
"Yes, you can paint matt over gloss, but don’t apply matt emulsion directly onto a glossy surface if you want a durable finish."
Answered on 23rd Jun 2026 - Member since Apr 2026 - report
"You don’t need to strip it, but you do need to de‑gloss it. A light but thorough sanding plus a suitable primer is the safest route."
Answered on 23rd Jun 2026 - Member since May 2026 - report
"Hi
You say the walls!!! Is it a silk emulsion ?
Yes you can paint over it there will be products to give you a solid base and then a couple of coats on top
I can recommend a paint from Johnstones called Jonmat obliteration this incidentally is excellent for covering a strong colour too as a base in which to build two additional coats of your choosing
Alternatively a trade contract Matt emulsion I have used on many occasions that is cheap and does a good job
Buy good quality rollers and don’t be afraid to put paint on
It will look patchy whilst it dries"
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"No I do not Recommend putting matt Paint straight over as it will cause Large peeling areas as It won’t bond Correctly as they are not Compatible. You are best to Completely Sand the Area then dust off and Apply a Primer ask the sales person for the Right product once primer is on leave for over 24 hours or follow Directions on Side of primer then apply your Matt paint Preferred 2 Coats for best Finish"
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Mar 2026 - report
"I would strongly recommend to apply a quick coat of Zinsser BIN red then the emulsion of your choice"
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Aug 2022 - report
"No not with emulsion it won't key it will slide over it. But if you under coat with oil you can emulsion over it.
A lot painters will tell you to use guards but this is another water based product. So for me it's a know."
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Jan 2025 - report
"yes you can. prep erea . a light sand .and 2 coats of matt more if needed"
Answered on 21st Jun 2026 - Member since Apr 2020 - report
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