|
Exterior Paint Problem Solver
| Back to Problem Solver Menu |
Alligatoring
|
 |
Patterned cracking in the surface of the paint film resembling the regular scales of an alligator.
Possible Cause:
Application of an extremely hard, rigid coating, such as an alkyd enamel, over a more flexible coating, such as a latex primer.
Application of a top coat before the undercoat is dry.
Natural aging of oil-based paints as temperatures fluctuate. The constant expansion and contraction results in a loss of paint film elasticity.
Solution:
Completely remove old paint by scraping the surface. A power washer or a heat gun can be used to speed work on large surfaces, followed by sanding.
If using a heat gun, take care to avoid igniting paint or substrate.
Print the surface with exterior latex or oil primer, then paint with a quality latex exterior paint.
|
Back to Problem Solver Menu
|
|
