Alligatoring
Manifestations
- Term is used to describe patterned cracking on the paint’s surface.
- It is named for resemblance to scales on the skin of an alligator.
- Causes
- Applying an extremely rigid coat of something similar to alkyd enamel over a coat of something more flexible, such as a latex primer.
- Applying a top coat before undercoat has dried adequately.
- As the natural aging process of oil-based paint occurs, the elasticity of the paint film is lost due to constant expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuation.
- Solutions
- Completely remove old paint by scraping the surface, followed by sanding.
- Use a heat gun to facilitate faster results on large surfaces.
- WARNING: When using a heat gun be cautious not to ignite paint or substrate.
- Prime the surface with premium quality latex or oil-based primer.
- After drying, apply the highestquality exterior latex paint.