How to Identify and Avoid Exterior Paint Problems

If the exterior paint on your house or building is not properly applied and maintained, it can cause a host of problems to your structure. Here are some tips on some of the common exterior paint problems and how to identify as well as avoid them.

One major exterior paint problem is peeling paint. One of the main reasons why paint begins to peel is because it was not properly applied in the first place. This could be due to either not using a primer when painting or other inadequate prep work. In order for paint to properly adhere to your building, there needs to be a roughness that the paint can adhere to. Applying a coat of primer or sanding the exterior of the building will help to achieve this and help to prevent peeling paint.

Mold and mildew is another problem that can occur on exterior paint surfaces. Mildew is typically found in damp, shaded areas and will appear as black, brown or dark green spots on the painted surface. Mildew is a living fungus and feeds on the paint film. Mold and mildew can be the causes of numerous health problems, including chronic fatigue, sinus and respiratory problems, sleep difficulties and an impaired immune system. The major causes of mildew and mold are heavy moisture, poor ventilation and the lack of sunlight. The areas where mold and mildew are most likely to develop are under the soffits, eaves and other shady areas around the house.

Paint chalking is another exterior paint problem that can occur. Paint chalk looks like a fine powder that begins to surface on the paint film. It is actually part of the paint's pigment. The problem is often caused by the use of low quality paints or using the wrong type of paint, just as interior paint, on the exterior of a building. Before adding a new coat of paint to the exterior of your build, any excess paint chalk should first be removed as well as apply a new coat of primer.

As you can see from the previous types many of the common exterior paint problems are caused by inadequate prep work and using inferior quality paint. Many of these problems can be avoided in the future by doing thorough prep work, including applying primer, as well as choosing high quality exterior paints for your home or building. Doing the job right the first time will help you avoid many of the more common exterior paint problems.