| Cracking/Flaking: The splitting of a dry paint film
through at least one coat as a result of aging, which ultimately will lead to
complete failure of the paint. In its early stages, the problem appears as
hairline cracks; in its later stages, flaking occurs.
Possible Cause:
Use of a lower quality paint that has inadequate adhesion and
flexibility.
Overthinning or overspreading the paint.
Inadequate surface preparation, or applying the paint to bare wood without
first applying primer.
Excessive hardening and embrittlement of alkyd paint as the paint job ages.
Solution: Remove loose and flaking paint with a scraper or wire
brush, sanding the surface and feathering the edges. If the flaking occurs in
multiple layers of paint, use of a filler may be necessary. Prime bare wood
areas before repainting. Use of a top quality primer and top coat should
prevent a recurrence of the problem.
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