Bristol 10 Paint Problems And Their Solutions

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10 Common Paint Problems & Their Expert Solutions

Blistering (Bubbles Under Paint)

Blistering (Bubbles Under Paint)

Problem: Small bubbles appear on the paint surface when moisture is trapped beneath.
Solution:

  • Pop existing blisters, sand smooth, then prime and repaint.
  • Stop painting in high humidity or on damp surfaces.
  • Let walls dry thoroughly before priming.

Chalking (Powdery Residue on Surface)

Problem: A dusty, chalk-like powder forms due to UV exposure or low-quality paint.
Solution:

  • Rinse well, let dry, then prime and repaint using quality exterior paint with UV resistance.
  • Scrub away chalking with a stiff brush and mild detergent.
Chalking (Powdery Residue on Surface)
Cracking & Crazing (Tiny Cracks in Paint Film)

Cracking & Crazing (Tiny Cracks in Paint Film)

Problem: Fine lines or splits appear when topcoat is applied too soon or it’s too thick.
Solution:

  • Scrape and sand the cracked area.
  • Apply a suitable primer.
  • Recoat with one or two thin layers, allowing full drying between coats.

Peeling (Paint Flaking Off)

Problem: Large sections of paint lift off, usually from poor adhesion or moisture.
Solution:

  • Scrape away loose paint and sand edges smooth.
  • Clean the surface.
  • Prime with a quality bonding primer.
  • Reapply a quality topcoat in appropriate weather.
Peeling (Paint Flaking Off)
Poor Color Retention Fading

Poor Color Retention / Fading

Problem: Paint softens or fades, especially in sunlit or south-facing areas.
Solution:

  • Use high-quality, UV-resistant paint.
  • Apply a primer rated for color hold.
  • For extreme exposure, consider a protective clear coat.

Mildew & Mold

Problem: Black, green, or gray spots from moisture and inadequate sunlight.
Solution:

  • Wash with a solution of water and vinegar (or mild bleach mix).
  • Rinse thoroughly, let dry.
  • Apply a mildew-resistant primer.
  • Use paint formulated specifically for wet areas (kitchens, bathrooms).
Yellowing
Yellowing

Yellowing

Problem: White or light-colored paints turn yellow over time, common in oil-based paints.
Solution:

  • Ensure good ventilation indoors.
  • Avoid oil-based paints in low-light or enclosed areas.
  • Use water-based enamels or acrylics with bright-white pigments.

Wrinkling / Shrinkage

Problem: Paint surface forms ridges or wrinkles from too thick application or fast-drying conditions.
Solution:

  • Remove wrinkled paint (scrape or sand).
  • Apply thin coats.
  • Ensure proper environmental conditions—avoid high temperature or wind.
Wrinkling Shrinkage
Efflorescence / Salt Leaching (White Crusty Deposits)

Efflorescence / Salt Leaching (White Crusty Deposits)

Problem: Salt or mineral deposits on masonry paints due to moisture migrating out.
Solution:

  • Scrub off deposits with a wire brush.
  • Let surface dry.
  • Apply a masonry sealer or primer.
  • Repaint using breathable masonry paint.

Picture Framing (Visible Roller Marks)

Problem: Dark or discoloured frames around panels caused by uneven paint distribution.
Solution:

  • Use the “wet-edge” technique: maintain a wet edge when painting.
  • Choose a good-quality roller cover (proper nap length).
  • Load roller evenly and use consistent overlapping passes.
Picture Framing

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