Paint glitches to avoid

Blistering: It is caused by trapped moisture or gases in paint film (More likely in enamels). in case it occurs smooth sand the surface and then repaint it.

Poor adhesion occurs when paint is applied over an oily, greasy or very smooth surface. It also results from applying paint over loose particles like dust or rust or due to not sanding previous coat of gloss paint. Applying paint over partially dried coat also causes poor adhesion.

Avoid this by proper surface preparation. The surface should be repainted.

Orange peel is caused by applying a paint that is too viscous. The best way to avoid is to allow sufficient drying time between coats. The remedy is to rub out orange peel and repaint.

Sags and runs occur due to application of a excessive thick coat or the use of a wrong thinner. It can be prevented by applying a finish coat using recommended thinner. Correct the defect by getting the sagged areas sand surface to smooth and repainted.

Brush marks result from applying paint using poor quality brushes, careless application or the use of highly viscous paint. Use good quality brushes and thin paint to desired proportion.

Checking and chalking result from cracking of plaster, application of matt finish over glossy finish, application of finish coat before drying of the under coat or applying of a quick hard dry coat over a soft one.

The undercoat and top coat of paint should have identical physical properties. Allow drying time between two coats.

to correct this defect, the entire coat must be completely removed. Exposed base should be then rubbed down to a smooth face and primed before repainting.

Yellowing is caused when paint film is excluded from natural sunlight or it is subjected to too much sunlight. To prevent it use anti-yellowing water-based enamel and improve ventilation inside the house. The remedy is that the surface should be cleaned and repainted.

Microbial growth results from seepage or dampness in buildings or contamination of paint by materials used in putty preparation.

Before painting, the area should be cleaned with 2 per cent bleach solution. Use clear water for thinning and putty preparation. Keep doors and windows open during and after painting. If it occurs after painting, clean the surface with bleach solution and repaint

Patchiness occurs due to application of finish coat over spot puttied surfaces, high alkalinity of surface (evident in new walls), incomplete drying of putty or application of thick coat of putty.

Allow new walls to get cured for at least three months. Apply thin coats of putty. Always apply a primer coat after applying spot putty. Always sandwich coats of putty with primer.

Cracks in plaster should be filled with cement sand mixture.

Rectify the defect by scraping the surface and repainting with the right surface preparation.

• You can wash your walls with a soft sponge and mild detergent twice a year for best results.

• If you see any dampness in a wall, check for the source and rectify it immediately to prevent flaking off and peeling of paint.

— CB