7 Common Paint Problems (Solved!)

1. Blistering

If you observe bubbles forming from the underlying surface of your wall paint, this is blistering. Blisters are caused by moisture being drawn out from the surface that the paint is applied. It can be caused by painting when humidity is high, applying paint to a damp surface or re-coating too quickly. Insufficient surface preparation also increases the occurrence of blisters.

The solution

Avoid painting under extreme humidity or if a high dew point is present. Make sure your surface is dry and free of moisture before the paint application. Allow adequate drying time before re-applying paint. If the blisters go down to the surface, then moisture is a problem. In this case, it is highly-recommended to install vents and exhaust fans in affected areas. Choosing the Correct Primer Undercoat for the type of surface to be painted is your best chance of success may be the difference between success and failure.

2. Chalking

Chalking is loosely-based powder forming in painted walls. Low quality paints with high levels of pigment extenders are the culprit in this common paint problem. Other major factors to consider is the age, the color or application of the paint. Some colors that contain a large amount of tint or are very bright can go chalky quite quickly. If the paint is thinned out too much, this could also cause a problem.

The solution

Remove the loose paint by scraping. Prime bare spots and repaint affected areas. Make sure to apply high-quality paints at the recommended spreading rate and thinning rate. When using bright colors, it is best to use the best quality paint that you can. Keep an eye on your paint work.

3. Cracking/Crazing

Cracking is characterized by splitting of dry paint film through at least one coat. It could also be that the first coat was not completely dry before application of the second coat.

The solution

Scrap and feather sand the affected area and apply correct primer coat before repainting with a high-quality paint at the recommended spreading rate.

4. Mould/Mildew

Mould/Mildew is a fungus characterized by black, grey, brown, and green spots growing on the surface. Mould/Mildew likes to grow in areas with high moisture, improper ventilation and lack of sunlight. Low-quality paint that contains no/inadequate bacteria shield (Inhibits mould and mildew), increases the chance of growth.

The solution

Scrub the affected area with household white vinegar to kill the mould spore. Apply a coat of stain blocking primer. Avoid using low-quality acrylic or oil-based alkyd paint and install exhaust fans in high moisture areas to assure proper ventilation.

5. Yellowing

While yellowing occurs at places with low-sunlight, it is best to avoid using alkyd or oil-based paint in these areas. Acrylic paints are best in situations as mentioned above.

The solution

While yellowing occurs at places with low-sunlight, it is best to avoid using alkyd or oil-based paint in these areas. Acrylic paints are best in situations as mentioned above..

6. Peeling

Peeling is a very common paint problem characterized by peeling-off of an outer paint layer from an earlier paint layer. It can be caused by loss of adhesion between a coating and a substrate, high moisture, or applying paint directly to a dirty or dusty wall.

The solution

Scrape away the peeling paint and smooth out the affected areas by sanding. Apply a good sealer/undercoat. Repaint with a Top-quality paint.

7. Wrinkling or Shrivelling

A painted surface that forms a skin that appears wrinkled or shrivelled is caused by paint being applied to heavily on a surface or the application of the second coat is applied without letting the first coat dry properly. Uncured paint exposed to rain, dew, and high humidity is also a possible factor for wrinkling or shrivelling.

The solution

It requires patience to let the base coat of a paint job dry completely prior to the final coat application. Allow extra time to dry if painting under hot, cool or damp weather. Paint should also be distributed evenly. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for spreading rate and environmental conditions.

The occurrence of these common paint problems is due lack of diligence of the person who did the work or lack of knowledge with the paint products. Maintenance for repainting is often expected after a period of time. Prevention is better than a cure.

Avoid these common painting problems by using experienced reputable painters to complete the job.