Exterior problem solving

alligatoring

Many wide patterned cracks in the paint film with the appearance of alligator scales.

Cause and solution >>

Blistering

Dome shaped paint bubbles indicating loss of adhesion. Can occur in isolation or groups.

chalking

Excessive and heavy powdering. Paints chalk naturally somewhat over long exposure to sun and weather.

checking / flaking

Aging, dried paint starts with hairline cracks. Eventually cracking to the surface.

dirt staining

Excessive collection of dirt and other debris. Sometimes mistaken for mildew.

efflorescence

Crusty, white salt deposits leached from masonry or mortar as moisture passes through.

fading/color retention

Early loss of color or change usually from direct sun exposure. More pronounced with yellows and reds.

frosting

Salty looking discoloration, most visible on darker colors, sometimes mistaken for efflorescence.

galvanized metal peeling

It is an adhesion loss of the paint due to inadequate surface preparation.

Cause and solution >>

gloss retention

An accelerated deterioration of the top coat causing rapid luster loss.

lapping

Occurs where wet and dry layers overlap during painting. Avoid with paint area management and technique.

Cause and solution >>

leaching (surfactant)

Blotchy usually tan colored glossy water soluble spots on latex paints.

mildew

Areas of black, gray, brown spots formed in paint and other surfaces, particularly in damp, shady areas.

nailhead rusting

Rust spots come through the paint. Preventable with proper surface preparation and priming.

paint incompatibility

Causing adhesion loss from a top coat of latex over many layers of old alkyd or oil based paint.

peeling

Paint adhesion is lost and the loose paint starts coming off in single to multiple coats.

resisting alkali

Results are color loss and complete deterioration of the paint on fresh masonry.

tannin wood staining

Brownish discoloration that will come through prime/finish coats unless properly primed.

under eaves peeling

Occurs in protected or shady areas where condensation collects sulfur dioxide from air.

wax bleeding

Migration of waxy additives used in reconstituted wood products to the surface causing discoloration and possible wetting.

wrinkling

Improper paint application (usually too thick) can cause paint to have a crinkled surface.