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Problems with Paint


Problems with Paint

When reading up about all the problems that can crop up with painting , the problems at first seem to overwhelm, almost making the project so daunting and off –putting, that it almost seems not worth one’s while to go ahead and do the job without calling in paint specialists.

But a few simple steps from the outset can make the DIY job really professional – the secret is to do one’s homework prior to starting.
Warrior Paints have many outlets and professionals on hand to advise, that are only too willing to guide and give tips – But here prevention is better than cure, and a few simple steps before starting painting can prevent many problems occurring.
Many common problems can be avoided when painting , from the outset , provided a few basic steps are taken – from blistering, to cracking, peeling, to chalking. Then there is running, mildew, rust discolouration, and sagging. All can be sorted out with a little preparation and basic knowledge, avoiding the most common of paint problems.
So what do all these terms really mean in “paint problem” terms?
Blistering looks very similar to the blisters we get on our skin. Blistering on paint surfaces is caused by moisture being trapped under the top surface of paint. This is caused by either painting in direct sunlight or by painting on damp wooden surfaces. The moisture gets trapped by the paint drying too quickly. Another reason for the blistering is when a poor quality latex paint is used, or if rooms that you are painting have poor ventilation.
So how does one go about fixing this paint problem? Simple, really.
You do have to go back to basics, though. Scraping off and sanding the old paint until you have a bare surface to work on…this time it would be advisable to ensure that the painted surface is really quite dry, and the room well-ventilated and also not to paint in hot, direct sunlight.
Hairline cracks, or spiderweb cracks , is another paint problem – these are about 1mm in thickness, and then there are large plaster cracks running both horizontally and diagonally – this is commonly  known as “alligatoring” – these could range from 4mm in thickness and more.
The common causes are:
Painting over old paint or on a surface that that was not properly prepared prior to painting, or over a primer that was not properly dry before applying the top coat.
Two different paints were used, for example painting latex paints over gloss paint.
Using old latex paint, could be another cause of the painted surface “alligatoring”
Then there is “checking”. This paint problem is caused by oil-based paints aging, and this is usually quite a common paint problem on wooden surfaces.
The best way to avoid all painting problems is to prepare your surface properly and to consult your nearest paint shop specialist – Remember – prevention is always better than cure.

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