"frank1492" wrote in message
...
The kitchen ceiling of my house (circa 20's) is flaking here and
there. There are several areas in which pieces, of various sizes
and with thickness roughly equal to several paint layers, are
peeling. I could of course just pull them off, sand slightly, and
repaint the ceiling. But I'd really like to fill them before I paint.
My question: How best to do this, and should I use spackle
or plaster? The surface beneath is solid.
Thanks very much!
Frank
P.S. A future question will be about the plaster on the basement
walls (finished basement) that is flaking AND powdering. How best
to handle that, including proper prep? (I assume a moisture problem
on that one, but can't detect any.)

Peeling paint layers are often due to leaks or moisture. Before you repair
the area, I suggest you search the attic for evidence of roof leaks,
especially around vent pipes and other penetrations thru the roof.
For the repair, use a utility knife to first chip off any loose or curled or
bent paint around the holes. I would use painters caulk from a regular
caulking cartridge - wipe a wet sponge over the repair area to prime it ,
then just sqeeze on a bit, then knife it smooth with a wet putty knife. It
may take several applications, a day apart, to get it flush with the
undamaged paint. This caulk is more adhesive and flexible than spackle, so
is likely to stay put. Prime the repaired area with zinzzer or other primer,
then paint the ceiling with a finish coat.