Solutions to Common Paint Problems

When applied properly, paint can greatly enhance the look of your home. When not applied properly, or applied in harsh conditions, you're left with a big mess. Whether you've improperly applied the paint yourself, or are attempting to repair paint problems left by a previous homeowners, the simple truth is they are not much fun to work with. As a homeowner, there are many common paint problems that you may encounter. Get the solutions to common paint problems and repair the problem properly. From chipping, blistering, alligatoring, and a few paint problems in between, find the help you need here.

Alligatoring - Alligatoring occurs when oil-based paint begins to crack, and is easily recognized because the paint takes on the appearance of alligator skin. Alligatoring can also occur if an oil paint has been applied over a latex paint, or if the paint was applied when the bottom surface was damp or moist. If alligatoring has occurred in your home, the paint will need to be completely removed from the surface. Once the damaged paint is removed, you'll need to repair any wall damage and prime and paint.

Blistering - Blistering occurs when moisture begins pushing out from beneath the surface, as is most often the cause of paint being applied to a damp or moist wall. If left alone, blistering will cause severe peeling and cracking of the paint. To repair this problem, scrape off the paint blisters and lightly sand the area with sandpaper. Prime the surface to block out moisture. Allow the primer to sit overnight and repaint.

Chalking - Chalking paint problems are commonly the result of very old paint or very cheap paint. As it ages, paint begins to form a loose chalky surface. If this is something you have encounter in your home, the paint will literally chalk off on your clothing or hands. To repair this, scrub off as much chalky paint as possible with a soft bristle brush and a mixture of ¼ cup white vinegar and a gallon of warm water. Wipe the surface dry and repeat. Allow the walls to dry completely before priming and repainting.

Mildew growth - One of the most common paint problems is the growth of mildew. In the beginning stages, mildew may look like a small black or brown spot, which is often mistaken for dirt. It begins to grow and eat away at the paint, staining walls in the process. It is the cause of moisture or humidity. To remove mildew, the area will need to be thoroughly scrubbed with a wire brush. Combine a mixture of bleach and warm water and scrub until all trace of mildew is removed. Wash down the surface and allow it to dry overnight. Apply a primer before painting to block out future mildew growth.

Peeling and cracking - Peeling or cracking paint are the most common paint problems, and they are fairly easy to repair. It is often caused by moisture. This moisture can either be found beneath the surface or caused by a extreme humidity. Cracking is often caused by similar conditions, or due to a lack of preparation before the paint was applied. To remedy either of these common paint problems, scrape off the loose paint and sand the surface. Apply a primer and allow it to dry completely before repainting.

Wrinkling - Wrinkling can be caused by a number of things. Weather, moisture, lack of preparation, dirt, or applying a second coat before the first is completely dry, are just some of the causes of wrinkling. To repair, scrape the surface and remove any loose paint. Then, sand down the wrinkles and the area around the them. Repair any wood damage and prime the walls well. Allow the primer to dry completely before repainting.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

10 Basic Interior Painting Rules

How the Lead Paint Laws May Affect You

10 Interior Decorating Mistakes You Can Avoid

SOURCE:

Personal knowledge and experience

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network