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Close up image of a surface that has some cracking and flaking paint.

CRACKING/FLAKING - EXTERIOR

The splitting of a dry paint film through at least one coat, which will lead to complete failure of the paint. Early on, the problem appears as hairline cracks; later, flaking of paint chips occurs. This often leads to complete paint failure if not addressed in its earlier stages.

Causes

  • Use of a lower quality paint that has inadequate adhesion and flexibility.
  • Over thinning the paint or spreading it too thin.
  • Poor surface preparation, especially when the paint is applied to bare wood without priming.
  • Painting under too cool conditions or in warm, windy conditions that make latex paint dry too fast.
  • Use of oil-based paint over surfaces that undergo constant contraction and expansion.

Solutions

  • It may be possible to correct cracking that does not go down to the substrate by removing the loose or flaking paint with a scraper or wire brush, sanding to feather the edges, priming any bare spots and repainting.
  • If the cracking goes down to the substrate, remove all of the paint by scraping, sanding and/or use of a heat gun; then prime and repaint with a quality exterior latex paint. Old, flaking paint may contain lead, so precautions for lead paint should be followed.
  • Use high-quality paints that are formulated to provide a flexible film.

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What Sheen Do I Need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when stripping is needed.
$0.00
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