Solving common painting problems

There are some common problems that can occur when painting various substrates. Here are some causes and some solutions that could help you down the line.

1. Blistering/Bubbling

Cause:

• Painting in direct sunlight or on a hot surface.

• Moisture trapped under the paint.

• Applying oil-based paint over a damp surface.

Solution:

• Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces.

• Ensure surfaces are dry before painting.

• Use moisture-resistant paint in areas prone to dampness.

• Sand down blisters and repaint with high-quality paint.

2. Cracking and Flaking

Cause:

• Use of low-quality paint.

• Over-thinning the paint.

• Poor surface preparation.

• Painting on a wet or dirty surface.

Solution:

• Remove loose paint by scraping and sanding.

• Prepare the surface properly (clean and dry).

• Use high-quality, flexible paint.

• Apply a suitable primer before painting.

3. Efflorescence

Cause:

• Water moving through a masonry wall, carrying salts to the surface.

• Poor waterproofing or sealing.

Solution:

• Identify and fix the source of water infiltration.

• Clean the surface to remove salts (use a stiff brush or wash with water).

• Allow the surface to dry completely.

• Apply a waterproof sealer before painting.

4. Fading

Cause:

• Prolonged exposure to sunlight.

• Use of low-quality paint.

• Incorrect type of paint for the surface.

Solution:

• Use high-quality, UV-resistant paint.

• Choose lighter colors that resist fading better.

• Apply a clear protective topcoat for added UV protection.

5. Mildew and Mold

Cause:

• High humidity and poor ventilation.

• Lack of sunlight.

• Use of low-quality paint without mildew-resistant properties.

Solution:

• Clean the surface with a mildew remover or a mixture of bleach and water.

• Ensure the area is dry and well-ventilated.

• Use paint with mildew-resistant additives.

• Improve ventilation in humid areas.

6. Staining

Cause:

• Leaking water pipes or roofs.

• Crayon, ink, or other substances bleeding through the paint.

• Contaminants on the surface.

Solution:

• Identify and fix the source of the stain (e.g., repair leaks).

• Clean the surface thoroughly.

• Use a stain-blocking primer before painting.

7. Wrinkling

Cause:

• Applying paint too thickly.

• Painting during very hot or cold weather.

• Recoating before the previous coat has dried.

Solution:

• Sand down the wrinkled paint.

• Apply thinner coats of paint.

• Follow the recommended drying times between coats.

• Avoid painting in extreme temperatures.

8. Peeling

Cause:

• Poor surface preparation.

• Painting over a dirty or oily surface.

• Using incompatible paint types.

Solution:

• Remove the peeling paint by scraping and sanding.

• Clean the surface thoroughly.

• Use a primer if necessary.

• Apply a high-quality topcoat.

9. Roller Marks and Brush Strokes

Cause:

• Using low-quality brushes or rollers.

• Applying paint unevenly.

• Overworking the paint.

Solution:

• Use high-quality brushes and rollers.

• Apply paint evenly and avoid over-brushing or over-rolling.

• Maintain a wet edge and work in small sections.

10. Sagging or Running

Cause:

• Applying paint too thickly.

• Painting on a vertical surface without proper technique.

• Using low-viscosity paint in hot or humid conditions.

Solution:

• Avoid applying thick coats; use multiple thin layers instead.

• Start painting from the top and work downwards.

• Use a paint with appropriate viscosity for the conditions.

Addressing these common problems can greatly improve the quality and longevity of your #painting projects. Proper #preparation, using high-quality materials, and following best practices are key to avoiding and solving these issues.