Can I paint my shutters over the old paint without sanding?

New paint only holds as well as whatever is underneath it. If the old paint has crackedCrackA split or gap in render, concrete, a wall, a coating or wood. Fine cracks are usually only on the surface; ones that grow, keep reopening or run diagonally need attention., blistered or is peelingPeeling paintWhen paint loses its grip and lifts off in flakes or sheets. It is almost always a sign of a problem underneath, usually damp or poor preparation., the new coat sticks to something that's already coming loose, and it will come off with it. On top of that, cracks and bare patches don't close up under a coat of paint, and water keeps getting into the wood.

On these shutters the paint had come off in large pieces and the wood was left exposed, especially at the bottom. Painting over it would have made no sense. The old paint came off with a sanderSandingSmoothing a surface with sandpaper or a power sander to remove bumps, loose old paint or gloss, so the new paint or varnish grips well and comes out smooth. and scraper until sound wood showed, then a primerPrimerThe thin first coat that goes on before the main material. It binds dust, seals the pores and helps paint or waterproofing stick firmly. went on, and finally the top coat.

If, on the other hand, the old paint is sound everywhere and has only faded or got dirty, it doesn't all need to come off. It needs a good clean and a light sanding, so it loses its sheen and the new paint can grip.

Keep in mind: check the bottom ends and the joints before you decide. That's usually where the wear starts, and where rottenWood rotDecay of wood caused by fungi when it stays damp for a long time. Rotten wood goes soft, gives when pressed or crumbles, and can't be saved with paint. wood hides, which paint can't fix. Also, not every paint takes well over every old paint, so whoever does the job should know what is already on the wood.