Paint Problems - Blistering

If bubbles begin to form in localized areas on your painted exterior surface after drying, this is known as blistering. The paint film may lift from the substrate in several small areas. 

photo: paint blisters

There are several possible causes for blistering. If a surface is hot and painted in direct sunlight, the paint may not completely adhere. The application of an oil-based paint on a wet surface will produce similar results. If you’ve used a latex paint, and the surface is exposed to high humidity, dew, or rain shortly after the paint has dried, this can cause blistering…especially if the surface was not adequately prepped (see my post on preparation).

 

A less common cause of blistering is moisture escaping through your exterior walls. Oil-based paints are more prone to this than are latex paints.

If the blisters settle and go back down to the substrate, try to remove the source of the moisture. Check your exterior caulking to make sure that is not the source of water infiltration. Also check your flashing.

If the blistering continues, the problem may be moisture escaping through your walls.  You may want to consider installing exhaust fans/vents if the blistering has occurred on a gable, though the solution could be as simple as adjusting the humidity on your thermostat (especially during winter months).

After addressing the source of the moisture, you may find that the blisters will go down and adhere to the substrate...your chances are better if you used a latex paint. If the blisters do not adhere, you’ll want to scrape and sand the areas, then prime and repaint with a quality exterior paint.

 

If your paint has blistered and you cannot determine the cause, call us today for a free consultation. We'll be glad to look at the problem and advise you regarding the proper course of action.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beach Painting Contractors

info@beachpainting.com

 

Paint Problems - Mildew

Paint Problems - Mildew

 

 

photo: mildew on cedar shakes

On the Outer Banks, mildew is simply a fact of life. Heavily wooded areas (such as Southern Shores or Kitty Hawk) block the sunlight and the frequently damp air creates a perfect environment for mildew.

Mildew is actually fungal growth (usually black or gray). Walls with northern exposure and the underside of eaves are particularly prone to mildew.

Other causes of mildew include the use of low quality paint, failure to prime bare wood before painting, painting over a substrate on which mildew has not been removed, and applying paint in a very thin coat.

At Beach Painting, we use the highest quality paints available (all of which are mildew resistant). We spot prime bare wood before painting. We always chemically treat and wash substrates before applying paint and we apply the paint to achieve the highest possible dry film thickness.

If you encounter mildew, you can test by applying a few drops of household bleach to the area and then rinsing. If the discoloration disappears, it is probably mildew. It can be removed by taking a scrub brush and a diluted bleach solution (three parts water, one part bleach) to the area. Always wear rubber gloves and eye protection when doing this. Rinse the area thoroughly and apply primer to any bare wood before touching up with a high quality exterior paint.

The best overall solution is to incorporate the power washing of your home's exterior into your annual Fall or Spring maintenance. Call us today for a free estimate!