Interior Solutions
blocking	picture framing
burnishing	poor hiding
caulking failures	print resistance failure
coalescence void	roller marks
cracking / flaking	sagging
flashing	scrubbing failure
flow / leveling failure	spattering (roller)
foaming / cratering	stain resistance failure
lapping	touch-up failure
mildew	wrinkling
mud cracking	yellowing

Exterior Solutions
alligatoring	mildew
blistering	nailhead rusting
chalking	paint incompatibility
checking / flaking	peeling: galvanized metal
dirt staining	peeling: hardboard / wood
efflorescence	peeling: masonary/metal
fading / color retention	resisting alkali
frosting	tannin wood staining
gloss retention	under eaves peeling
lapping	wax bleeding
leaching (surfactant)	wrinkling

BLOCKING . . . two painted surfaces sticking together when pressed against the other, such as doors and windows. BLOCKING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . insufficient drying time before pressing the newly painted surfaces of doors and windows together. Lack of adequate ventilation will lengthen drying time. Using slow drying oil based paints. Excessive paint. Recoat before first coat is dry. BLOCKING SOLUTIONS . . . allow the proper drying time per label directions. Free windows and doors from sticking before painting. Door and window jams should be properly adjusted for free and smooth operation. Persistent blocking or sticking can be relieved with talcum powder. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

BURNISHING . . . spots of increased sheen where paint is rubbed. Even a fingernail stroke can burnish. BURNISHING PROBABLE CAUSES . . selection of a flat finish for areas subject to heavy wear and soiling. Repeated spot washings using abrasive cleansing powders rather than liquid detergents. Furniture or other objects rubbing against walls or other painted surfaces. Dark colors show more. BURNISHING SOLUTIONS . . . paint high traffic areas with high quality, washable semi-gloss or gloss finishes. Do not clean with abrasive cleansers. Wash with nonabrasive detergents with a sponge or soft cloth and rinse with clean water. Gloss finishes are easier to clean and resist soil. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. .Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

CAULKING FAILURES . . . loss of the protective moisture seal due to the loss of initial adhesion and flexibility. CAULKING FAILURES CAUSES . . . Filling too large an opening. Wrong type of caulk for particular applications and exposure. Aged non-acrylic caulks that dry out lose their adhesion and flexibility. Considerable movement or prolonged contact with water will need special caulks/sealants. CAULKING SOLUTIONS . . . select a caulk that best serves your situation. Apply according to directions. For most interior painting, 100% acrylic caulks, are recommended. They will seal cracks and adhere to most surfaces, even when moisture is present. Don't paint over silicone caulks. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

COALESCENCE VOID . . . paint not forming a continuous film when surface temperature is too cold, usually below 50° F. COALESCENCE VOID CAUSES . . . painting when the air or surface temperatures are too cold for the paint to form a film. Painting in non-heated areas. Surfaces deeply chilled need a heating period before painting. Surface temperatures must be 50° F or above. COALESCENCE VOID SOLUTIONS . . . avoid painting interior or exterior surfaces when the temperatures are too cold. Late afternoon painting in unheated areas are vulnerable because the temperature will continue to decrease during the night and prevent proper paint film formation. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

CRACKING/FLAKING . . . aged paint splitting through at least one coat with flaking occurring in the later stages. CRACKING/FLAKING CAUSES . . . old oil based paint that loses adhesion, flexibility and becomes hard and brittle. Poor surface preparation. Substrate cracking underneath paint film,e.g. plaster. Over thinning or over spreading paint beyond manufacturer's recommendations. CRACKING/FLAKING SOLUTIONS . . remove all loose paint with a scraper. Sand the surface and feather the edges. Spackle deep scars caused by cracking/flaking of multiple coats of paint and sand. Remove all sanding dust. Spot prime any bare areas. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

FLASHING . . . uneven gloss with shiny or dull spots on painted surfaces. FLASHING PROBABLE CAUSES . . improper or no priming of porous surfaces or surfaces with non-uniform porosity. Poor painting techniques. Painting over fresh paint or primer before it's dry.Uneven film thickness causes poor sheen uniformity. Drying during excessive high/low temperatures. FLASHING SOLUTIONS . . . always prime new work to make the surface have uniform porosity. Apply the finish coat after proper drying of primer. A new finish coat usually will make the sheen uniform. Always paint from wet to dry and maintain a wet edge to avoid lapping. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

FLOW/LEVELING FAILURE . . . excessive brush or roller marks causing an unsightly non-uniform surface. FLOW/LEVELING PROBABLE CAUSES failures usually are the result of using wrong type or poor quality roller cover brush. Poor painting techniques. Repainting or touching-up partially dried areas brush/roller marks. Painting non-primed surfaces with varying porosity. FLOW/LEVELING SOLUTIONS . . . proper surface preparation and application with recommended quality roller cover brush. Roller nap length should confirm the paint type being used. High quality brushes will minimize brush marks. Select paint with good flow/leveling characteristics. PRIMING & INTERIOR FINISHES...Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

FOAMING/CRATERING . . . excessive bubbling that doesn't flow out and leaves craters or depressions in the paint film. FOAMING/CRATERING CAUSES . . . using a roller cover with incorrect nap length. Painting too soon after shaking. Rolling paint too fast or excessively. Using old paint. Painting over unprimed porous surfaces. Painting when the temperature is too hot, over 90° F. FOAMING/CRATERING SOLUTIONS . . . properly prime porous surfaces or new work. Use the proper nap length roller cover or a high quality brush. Avoid excessive rolling or brushing. After shaking, allow bubbles to dissipate before painting. Avoid painting when temperatures are above 90ºF. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

LAPPING . . . occurs where wet and dry layers overlap during painting. Avoid with paint area management and technique. LAPPING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . wet and dry layers overlapping. Failure to maintain a wet edge during painting. Painting too large an area at one time. Unprimed porous surfaces. Painting when temperatures are above 90ºF. Inadequate stirring and over thinning. LAPPING SOLUTIONS . . . another finish coat usually will hide lap marks. Proper priming will help avoid lapping on new work. Always paint from wet to dry and in small sections to keep a wet edge. Plan natural breaks like doors, windows and corners. Temperatures under 90ºF. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

MILDEW . . . areas of black, gray brown fungus growing on paint and other surfaces, particularly in damp areas. MILDEW PROBABLE CAUSES . . . warm humid conditions with poor air circulation. Painting over mildew without removal treatment. Excessive damp conditions, e.g. baths/kitchens. Poor surface preparation. Hidden moisture sources, such as a leaky roof encourages mildew growth. MILDEW SOLUTIONS . . . remove all mildew by scrubbing with a solution of household bleach (1 part) and water (3 parts). Wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Thoroughly rinse with water. Install vents and exhaust fans in high moisture areas like baths, kitchen and laundry rooms. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

MUD CRACKING . . . looks like dried mud with deep irregular cracks in the dry paint film. MUD CRACKING CAUSES . . . paint is applied excessively making the film too thick for proper curing and drying. Trying to make one thick coat do when two regular coats will give superior performance. Allowing paint to build up in certain areas such as corners. MUD CRACKING SOLUTIONS . . . remove excessive paint in affected areas by scraping and sanding. Sand smooth and remove sanding dust before repainting. Prime if recommended and recoat with a top quality paint. The uniform spread rate should not exceed the manufacturer's recommendation. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

PICTURE FRAMING ...darker color where ceilings, windows, doors and corner areas were cut-in with a brush. PICTURE FRAMING CAUSES . . . improper cutting-in technique using a brush with too much paint and not doing feather-edge brushing. Not maintaining a wet edge by cutting-in too much at one time. Poor roller technique, leaving a wide space between the natural break and the wall. PICTURE FRAMING SOLUTIONS . . . keep a wet edge and use a feather brush cuttingin technique. Roll into the cut-in areas before they're dry and as close as possible to the natural break. More critical when the temperatures are above 90ºF. Stir periodically to avoid paint thickening. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

POOR HIDING . . . failure of the finish coat to cover the previous color or a new substrate. POOR HIDING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . not applying enough paint. Making a severe color change. Painting with the wrong brush or roller. Improper or no priming. Using yellows or clean light colors that don't hide as well as toned colors. Over thinning the paint. POOR HIDING SOLUTIONS . . . usually another finish coat will cover the previous color or substrate. Prime dark colors to be covered with lighter colors. Apply the proper amount of paint with recommended brushes or rollers. Use recommended brushing and rolling techniques. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES . . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

PRINT RESISTANCE FAILURE . . . marking of paint from the weight of an object such as a dish on a shelf. PRINT PROBABLE CAUSES . . . not allowing enough time for the paint to properly dry and cure. Applying the finish coat before the primer has properly dried. Selecting a paint product not the best suited for shelving and cabinet use. Premature placement of excessive weighty objects on shelves. PRINT RESISTANCE SOLUTIONS .. . allow the full curing time recommendation before putting the surface back into service. The prime coat must dry the recommended time before apply the finish coat. Apply with a uniform spread rate. Use paint products that have the best print resistance. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice..

ROLLER MARKS . . . a stipple texture pattern from the roller, not desirable or planned. ROLLER MARKS PROBABLE CAUSES . . . incorrect rolling technique. Frequently, the use of an incorrect roller cover with an excessive nap length. Over loading the roller cover with paint. Failure to spread the paint uniformly. Painting over a slick surface without proper priming. ROLLER MARKS SOLUTIONS . . . use a quality recommended roller cover with the correct nap length. Make certain the roller is rolling, not sliding. Begin with an upward zigzag stroke in a "M" or "W" pattern and fill in the pattern with parallel strokes without leaving the surface. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

SAGGING . . . paint running down immediately after application leaving an uneven coating appearance. SAGGING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . application technique and inadequate surface preparation. Over thinned paint. Applying the paint too thickly. Spraying with the gun too close to the surface. Painting when the temperature is too cold or the humidity too high. SAGGING SOLUTIONS . . . before the paint dries, immediately brush or roll out running paint evenly. Properly prepare the surface, sand glossy areas. Do not thin the paint. Apply uniformly at the paint's recommended rate. Two proper coats are better than one thick coat. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

SCRUBBING FAILURE . . . excessive wearing away of the paint film from repeated scrubbings. SCRUBBING FAILURE CAUSES . . . using an improper, scrubbing technique with abrasive cleansing powder that will burnish and cut through the paint film. Using a flat sheen paint in a gloss sheen area. Scrubbing the paint before it has properly cured. SCRUBBING FAILURE SOLUTIONS . . . select a paint formulated for repeated scrubbings. Gloss finishes wash easier and resist soil. Wait until the paint is properly cured before any scrubbing, 3 weeks or more. Wash with a sponge or a soft cloth with a liquid detergent. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

SPATTERING . . . a spray of paint droplets from the roller cover as the paint is being applied. SPATTERING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . economy roller covers will generally spatter more. Overloading the roller cover. Over spreading the paint. Selecting an improper roller cover and nap length for the paint type being applied. SPATTERING SOLUTIONS . . . use high quality paint and roller covers with proper resiliency to minimize spattering. Avoid overloading the roller cover. Begin with an upward zigzag stroke in a "M" or "W" pattern and fill in the pattern with parallel strokes without leaving the surface. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice..

STAIN RESISTANCE FAILURE . . . paint soiling with minimal resistance to the absorption of dirt and stains. STAIN RESISTANCE CAUSES . . . using a flat paint that has a very porous film and vulnerable to soil by absorbing dirt. Applying paint to unprimed surfaces. Using a flat finish paint in a sheen area such as baths, kitchens, laundry rooms and halls. STAIN RESISTANCE SOLUTIONS . . . select a paint formulated for heavy duty wear and stain resistance. Priming new surfaces with the proper primer and using a premium quality finish coat will offer the best stain resistance. Wash stains promptly with a sponge and liquid detergents. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

TOUCH-UP FAILURE . . . a difference in color and appearance between the original paint and the touch-up spots. TOUCH-UP FAILURES CAUSES . . . poor technique. Touching-up with a different batch number and applicator. Touching-up at different temperatures. Failure to reduce the touch-up paint by up to 25%. Touchingup marks that could be removed by washing with a sponge and liquid detergent. TOUCH-UP SOLUTIONS . . . always use the same batch number when available. Try to wash the mark off first with a sponge and liquid detergent. Use only enough paint to cover the mark, excess paint may cause a halo. Use a feathering-in technique, avoid dabbing. Thin paint up to 25%. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

WRINKLING . . . a rough crinkled surface caused by a drying interference and forming a wrinkled skin. WRINKLING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . applying the paint too thickly. Painting over an insufficiently cured primer. Painting during extreme hot or cool/damp conditions will cause a drying interference and the paint film will skin rather than curing properly. WRINKLING SOLUTIONS . . . the wrinkled layers must be totally removed by sanding/scrapping. Stubborn underneath layers may require liquid paint remover. Bare areas need priming and allowed to dry. Spread uniformly and avoid painting in hot direct sunlight or when the temperature is below 50° F. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

YELLOWING . . . gradual formation of a yellow cast in aging oil based paints sensitive to the lack of UV exposure. YELLOWING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . using alkyd or oil-based paints in white or light colors. Heat effect from heating ducts, radiators or stoves. Limited light exposure behind pictures, appliances, inside closets, etc. Oxidation of oil-based paints/varnishes. Recycled paper on sheet rock. YELLOWING SOLUTIONS . . . select premium acrylic paints that are non-yellowing. Available in a variety of sheens for most every purpose. Non-yellowing varnishes are also available. Alkyd and oil-based paints tend to yellow particularly in little or no sunlight and dark areas. PRIMERS & INTERIOR FINISHES.. . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality interior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

ALLIGATORING . . . many wide patterned cracks in the paint film with the appearance of alligator scales. ALLIGATORING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually multiple coats of naturally aged oil based paints that have become brittle and start cracking. Topcoat's inability to bond smoothly to a glossy undercoat. Insufficient drying time between coats. A hard coating over a soft primer. ALLIGATORING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all of the old paint by scraping and sanding. A power washer is recommended for large areas to shorten the removal time. The best way to avoid future alligatoring is to properly prepare the surface and paint with a high quality primer/finish coat. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

BLISTERING . . . dome shaped paint bubbles indicating loss of adhesion. Can occur in isolation or groups. BLISTERING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . trapped moisture trying to escape through the paint, painting at temperatures above 90ºF. Using oil paints on wet/damp surfaces. High humidity, such as rain or heavy dew before the paint dries. Painting a warm surface in direct sunlight, or application over heavy chalk. BLISTERING SOLUTION . . . find and remove the sources of moisture. Control moisture with adequate venting, stopping leaks and acrylic caulking. Remove all of the blistered areas and other loose paint by scraping and sanding. Power washing recommended for large areas. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

CHALKING . . . excessive and heavy powdering. Paints chalk naturally somewhat over long exposure to sun and weather. CHALKING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually due to natural weathering. Paints using excessive clay in place of titanium dioxide. Interior paints being used for exterior surfaces. Over thinning or spreading too thinly. Wrong product selection. CHALKING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all of the chalk dust with a stiff bristle brush (wire on masonry) and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose with high water pressure. For best and quickest results,use a power washer. If some chalk residue still remains, a chalk binder coat is required. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES . . . A penetrating primer is essential to seal off any remaining chalk. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

CHECKING/FLAKING . . . aging, dried paint starts with hairline cracks. Eventually cracking to the surface. CHECKING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . poor surface prep. Applying paint too thin. Loss of elasticity, not expanding or contracting with humidity and temperature. As wood swells, stress breaks the bond between layers and checks form. Checking on unprotected wood is due to delamination. CHECKING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all loose paint with a scraper, wire brush or power washing for large areas. Feather sand edges. Level uneven areas with exterior spackle, sand and rinse with a garden hose to remove all dust particles. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

DIRT STAINING . . . excessive collection of dirt and other debris. Sometimes mistaken for mildew. DIRT STAINING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually a combination of air pollution and flying dust. Coarse flat finishes are particularly vulnerable to dirt penetration and staining. The life and beauty of exterior paints may be extended by properly washing as needed. DIRT STAINING SOLUTIONS . . . wash off all loose dirt and other particles before repainting. Use a scrub brush and a detergent solution with household bleach (1 part bleach/3 parts water) to also kill mildew if present. Power washing recommended for speed. Rinse to remove all loose particles. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

EFFLORESCENCE . . . crusty, white salt deposits leached from masonry or mortar as moisture passes through. EFFLORESCENCE CAUSES . . . excessive moisture. Inadequate venting of interior moisture laden areas. The pH level too high or the lack of curing time. Excessive lime in concrete mix. Soluble salts in masonry when dissolved by water appear on the surface as crystallized salts. EFFLORESCENCE SOLUTIONS . . . requires the elimination of moisture sources. Remove all loose paint and other particles with a wire or stiff brush before repainting. Fill all cracks with a masonry patching compound. Repair any leaks or other moisture sources. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Masonry primer/sealer is essential and must dry completely before repainting. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

FADING . . . early loss of color or change usually from direct sun exposure. More pronounced with yellows and reds. FADING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . using an interior grade or a lightly pigmented paint leading to rapid degradation. Using a color that isn't light fast. Tinting white paint not intended for tinting. Overtinting. All colors will fade somewhat over a long duration. FADING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all loose paint and other particles with a wire brush before repainting. All chalking must be removed, see chalking, page 4. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. For the best and quickest results, use a power washer. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

FROSTING . . . salty looking discoloration, most visible on darker colors, sometimes mistaken for efflorescence. FROSTING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually forms in protected areas not receiving cleaning rains. Dark colors over paint or primer using excessive extender pigments. Mistaken for efflorescence. FROSTING SOLUTIONS . . . remove frosting with a wire brush on masonry and sanding on wood. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. For best and quickest results, use a power washer. Frosting often will bleed through new paint if an alkyd-based primer isn't used. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . An alkyd primer is essential to avoid a reoccurrence of bleeding through the new finish coat only. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

GLOSS LOSS . . . an accelerated deterioration of the top coat causing rapid luster loss. GLOSS LOSS PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually the use of gloss alkyd or oil based paint exposed directly to the sun. Thin or inadequate paint film. Paint colors such as oranges, reds and yellows that are particularly vulnerable to UV radiation. All paints lose some luster over time. GLOSS RETENTION SOLUTIONS . . . use top quality UV resistant exterior paints. Acrylic glosses last much longer than oil or alkyd based paints. Remove all loose paint, dust and other particles. Rinse thoroughly with a hose. For best and quickest results, use a power washer. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Spot prime all bare areas. Also refer to Chalking Solutions page 4. Select a top quality exterior gloss paint in the color of your choice.

LAPPING . . . occurs where wet and dry layers overlap during painting. Avoid with paint area management and technique. LAPPING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . wet and dry layers overlapping. Too much heat or wind during application. Inadequate stirring and improper thinning. Extremely porous surface. Painting too large an area at one time, such as trying to go from the top to the bottom. LAPPING SOLUTIONS . . . another coat of paint evenly spread usually will cover lap marks. If the finish coat is relatively transparent or if the surface is overly porous, a primer or second coat may be necessary. Always paint from wet to dry and in small sections to keep a wet edge. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Extremely porous painted or unpainted surfaces need a primer/sealer coat before a new top coat. Select a top quality finish in the color and sheen of your choice.

SURFACTANT LEACHING . . . blotchy usually tan colored glossy water soluble spots on latex paints. LEACHING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . painting in cool humid conditions or just prior to their occurrence, such as late afternoon or just before or just after rain. If moisture from any source collects on fresh paint before it has thoroughly dried, leaching may appear. LEACHING SOLUTIONS . . . no painting if temperatures are below 50° F or late PM when it's cooler. Coolness extends drying. Surfactants that usually evaporate, rise to the surface. The residue disappears from weathering in about a month and doesn't harm the paint. It is best is to let nature take its course, but rinsing sometimes will easily remove the residue. Leaching cures itself in a little time. SURFACTANTS . . . are necessary to a paint formula. They evaporate and never are a part of the dried paint. Slow drying due to coolness or humidity, prevents the surfactants from evaporating and a blotchy sometimes glossy residue appears.

MILDEW . . . areas of black, gray, brown spots formed on paint and other surfaces, particularly in damp, shady areas. MILDEW PROBABLE CAUSES . . . warm, humid conditions, poor air circulation and little direct sunlight, like under eaves and overhangs. Shrubbery planted too close to a building is an ideal place for mildew to grow. Mildew must be removed before painting or it will come through the new paint. MILDEW SOLUTIONS . . . remove all mildew by scrubbing with a solution of household bleach and water. Mix 1 part bleach to 3 parts water.Wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Power washing is recommended for larger areas. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice containing mildewcidal protection.

NAILHEAD RUSTING . . . rust spots come through the paint. Preventable with proper surface preparation and priming. RUST STAINS PROBABLE CAUSES . . . improper surface preparation. Use of nails not protected against rusting. Failure to countersink,and apply rust inhibitive primer. Painting over rusty nailheads, in a short time the rust will bleed through again. NAILHEAD RUSTING SOLUTIONS . . . countersink the nails, spot prime and use acrylic caulk. Rust spots will reappear if you repaint over the rusty spots caused by nails or other rusting metals without prescribed preventative measures. Specify galvanized, aluminum or stainless steel nails. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming and proper surface preparation are essential with a corrosion resistant primer. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

INCOMPATIBILITY . . . causing adhesion loss from a top coat of latex over many layers of old alkyd or oil based paint. INCOMPATIBILITY CAUSES . . . usually caused by painting over 3 or more layers of alkyd or oil based paint with a latex top coat. The old paint has become brittle and will lift off the surface. Inadequate surface preparation. Using a not recommended top coat. PAINT INCOMPATIBILITY SOLUTIONS . . . remove all the loose paint by scraping or wire brush for masonry. Power washing is recommended for large areas. Feather sand edges for smooth appearance and rinse thoroughly with a hose. All bare areas will need spot priming. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

GALVANIZED METAL PEELING . . . is an adhesion loss of the paint due to inadequate surface preparation. PEELING PROBABLE CAUSES ...usually no or improper priming. Improper surface prep or choice of paint. Not removing rust, oil and other matter. Not deglossing baked enamel finishes. Painting too soon after cleaning galvanized surface. Galvanized metal is very alkaline until weathered. GALVANIZED METAL SOLUTIONS . . . remove all rust, loose paint and other particles. All dust must be rinsed or wiped away. Allow galvanized to weather prior to coating. Apply an acrylic corrosion-resistant primer. New galvanized must be primed with an acrylic corrosion-resistant primer if the finish coat is oil base or vinyl latex. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . .Bare or new galvanized metal needs agressive cleaning with mineral spirits prior to using a galvanized primer. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

PEELING . . . paint adhesion is lost and the loose paint starts coming off in single to multiple coats. PEELING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . moisture trying to escape through the paint film. This is more common with oil based paints. Moisture leaks from roofs, walls, uncaulked or dried-out caulked joints. Painting over a wet surface with alkyd or oil based paint. Inadequate surface preparation. PEELING SOLUTIONS . . . identify and eliminate the cause of moisture. Long term satisfaction is assured when moisture is controlled. Remove all loose paint by scraping. Power washing is recommended for large areas. Feather sand edges for smooth appearance and rinse thoroughly with a hose. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Spot prime all bare areas for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

PEELING . . . paint adhesion is lost and the loose paint starts coming off in single to multiple coats. PEELING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually improper surface prep and not identifying the conditions that need pre-painting attention. Uncontrolled moisture conditions, painting over rust, loose paint, chalking paint or dusty surfaces. MASONRY PEELING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all the loose paint with a wire brush. Power washing or sand blasting is recommended for large areas. Fill all cracks with a masonry patching compound. Use an alkali-resistant primer. METAL PEELING SOLUTIONS . . . remove all loose paint and rust. Apply a rust conversion or rust inhibitive primer. Lightly sand factory primed metal and remove dust. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Spot prime all bare areas for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

NO ALKALI RESISTANCE . . . results are color loss and complete deterioration of the paint on fresh masonry. ALKALI PROBABLE CAUSES . . . poor surface preparation. Painting a new high alkalinity masonry surface before it has cured a minimum of 30 days. Full curing takes a year. No primer or using an improper primer. A top coat of oil base or vinyl latex without a primer. ALKALI SOLUTIONS . . . allow new masonry surfaces at least 30 days of curing to avoid color loss and paint film deterioration on fresh masonry. Use an alkali resistant primer. Repainting requires the same preparation as Efflorescence, page 7. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is critical. An alkali-resistant primer must be used on fresh, uncured masonry surfaces. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

TANNIN WOOD STAINING . . . brownish discoloration that will come through prime/finish coats unless properly primed. WOOD STAINING CAUSES . . .Tannin escaping moisture and primers that don't block staining. The brownish stains are likely to come from redwood, cedar, mahogany and knots without priming. Severe staining may require more than 1 primer coat. Staining is more visible on light colors. TANNIN STAINING SOLUTIONS . . . locate and correct moisture sources. Wash with a commercial grade bleach solution, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry 48 hours minimum. Severe staining needs 2 coats or more of a stain-blocking primer. Cedar and redwood always require a stain-blocking primer. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is critical. Stain will bleed through multiple top coats without proper priming. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

INTERCOAT PEELING . . . occurs in protected or shady areas where condensation collects sulfur dioxide from air. These salt like crystals are washed away by rain in areas not protected. Painting over these crystals will cause peeling as the salts draws moisture through the paint. PEELING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . improper surface preparation to painted surfaces located in areas protected from weather. Condensation causing a collection of salt crystals from the air. If salt deposits aren't removed, new paint will peel. Lack of adhesion of a top coat over a hard, shinny surface. INTERCOAT PEELING SOLUTIONS . . . wash and rinse thoroughly before repainting. When dry, remove all loose paint with a scraper or wire brush. Sand all glossy areas and remove sanding dust. Remove mildew if present. Mix 1 part bleach with 3 parts water. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is essential for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in your color and sheen.

WAX BLEEDING . . . migration of waxy additives used in reconstituted wood products to the surface causing discoloration and possible wetting. PROBABLE CAUSES . . . exposing the hardboard to weather too long before painting. Not priming or using an improper primer. Dark colors are more prone to wax bleeding because of heat absorption. Inadequate paint film thickness. Flat paints are more likely to wax bleed. WAX BLEEDING SOLUTIONS . . . prevent the wax used in hardboard manufacturing from bleeding by painting new hardboard within 30 days. Hardboard siding needs 3 coats: primer and 2 finish coats. Use a recommended primer before repainting. Wax bleeding avoidance reduces dirt adherence. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Priming is critical for preventing wax bleeding. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color/sheen of your choice.

WRINKLING . . . improper paint application (usually too thick) can cause paint to have a crinkled surface. WRINKLING PROBABLE CAUSES . . . usually occurs when there is interference with normal drying, such as: applying too much paint, applying second coat too soon, uncured paint exposure to excessive moisture conditions, painting when it is too hot or cold and painting over un-sanded glossy surfaces. WRINKLING SOLUTIONS ...remove wrinkled areas and other loose paint. Aged wrinkled areas may require chemical paint removers.Wear safety gear as directed. Sand until smooth. Remove dust. Apply at recommended spread rates. Avoid extreme temperatures: Below 50° F and above 100° F. PRIMERS & EXTERIOR FINISHES. . . Spot prime all bare areas for better adhesion, sheen uniformity, mildew control and durability. Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.

 

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