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Solving Common Exterior Problems
 
 
Most common exterior painting problems result from poor preparation. Paint adheres to clean, dry surfaces.
For more information, see Prepping. Here's the run-down on some common exterior paint problems and solutions.
 
 
ALGAE

Likely Causes
Airborne algae spores grow on continually wet surfaces in bright light conditions. They appear as green, red or brown film and can be difficult to remove.

Solutions
Sand off and scrape abrasive pad and a bleach and water solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water). Prime with either oil or latex primer depending on requirements.


 
ALLIGATORING

Likely Causes
Like peeling, alligatoring is an adhesion problem. If latex paint was applied when the surface temperature was too cold, then the paint doesn't get a good chance to form a stable film.

Solutions
Sand off and scrape all loose paint. Spot prime bare areas. Paint with a high quality exterior paint and follow all label instructions.


 
WRINKLING

Likely Causes
The development of ridges and furrows in a paint film during drying is caused by applying a very thick coat of paint. The top surface of the film dries faster than material underneath, creating a pulling/shrinking action.

Solutions
Sand thoroughly after allowing ample dry time. Coating may require other removal methods, such as chemical stripping, to quickly reach original surface.


 
 
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Computer screens and printers vary in how colors are displayed. Colors which display on the screen and printed colors may not match the paint's actual color.