Interior Paint Problem Solving

Blocking

Two painted surfaces stick together when pressed
against the other, such as doors and windows.

Cause and solution >>

Burnishing

Spots of increased sheen that appear after paint has
been rubbed or scrubbed (even a fingernail can burnish).

caulking

Loss of the protective moisture seal due to the loss
of initial adhesion and flexibility.

coalescence Void

Paint is not forming a continuous film when surface
temperature is too cold, usually below 50 F.

cracking / flaking

Aged paint splitting through at least one coat with flaking
occurring in the later stages.

flashing

Uneven gloss with shiny or dull spots on painted surfaces

Flow / leveling failure

Excessive brush or roller marks causing an unsightly
non-uniform surface.

foaming / cratering

Excessive bubbling that doesn't flow out and leaves craters
or depressions in the paint film

lapping

Occurs where wet and dry layers overlap during painting.

Cause and solution >>

mildew

Areas of black, gray brown fungus growing on paint and
other surfaces, particularly in damp areas.

mud cracking

Paint looks like dried mud with deep irregular cracks
in the dry film.

Cause and solution >>

Picture framing

Darker color appear where ceilings, windows, doors,
and corners were cut-in with a brush.

Poor hiding

Failure of the finish coat to cover the previous color or
a new substrate.

Print resistance failure

The marking of paint from the weight of an object such
as a dish on a shelf.

roller marks

A stipple texture pattern from the roller that is not planned
or desired.

sagging

Paint running down immediately after application, leaving
an uneven coating appearance.

scrubbing failure

Excessive wearing away of the paint film from repeated
scrubbings.

spattering

A spray of droplets from the roller cover as the paint is
being applied.

stain resistance failure

Paint soiling with minimal resistance to the absorption
of dirt and stains.

Touch-up failure

A difference in color and appearance between the original
paint and the touch-up spots.

wrinkling

A rough crinkled surface caused by a drying interference and
forming a wrinkled skin.

yellowing

Gradual formation of a yellow cast in aging oil based paints sensitive to the lack of UV exposure.