Repairing hairline cracks in painted mdf?

[TonyS82]

Hi,
About 18 months ago I installed a pre finished mantel piece from wickes.
http://www.wickes.co.uk/orleans-mantle/invt/156856/
I cant remember exactly but think it was made from mdf.

Over the last 4 months, maybe more there have been some hairline cracks appear in the paint which have now become more noticeable with the mantel resembling a spiders web.

I want to repaint the mantel but how can i prevent the cracks from reappearing and what undercoat/topcoat is best to use?

Thanks

Tony

 

[madder]

Hi Tony,

What type of paint did you use? Oil based or water based? If it is near an open fire or heating source, it might be best to use heat resistant paint. You could try filling the cracks if a basic sanding down doesn't work.

 

[TonyS82]

HI Madder,

Thanks for the reply.

I didn't actually paint it as it was prefinished, but yes is over an electric fire which gets occasional use in the winter.

I may try sanding as you say but want to be sure that the finish will not suffer if I paint over the existing finish.

 

[madder]

Maybe you could test the water by sanding and painting over an inconspicuous area first?(if possible) A side of the mantlepiece for example?