Questions about Why Exterior Paint Peels and Flakes addressed to a Building Expert
Struggling with exterior paint peeling, flaking, or cracking shortly after application? You are not alone. Tim Carter, a renowned home improvement expert, is set to survey his newsletter subscribers, and he vows that a majority of them experience similar frustrations.
Carter believes that your dissatisfaction can be traced to a lack of understanding about paint. He is convinced that understanding the product will help you achieve similar remarkable results to his, as he has maintained the appearance of his 25-year-old Cincinnati house and 15-year-old New Hampshire house with no signs of peeling or flaking.
One might find it hard to believe that a $2 ice cream sundae isn't enough for Carter to wager on the commonness of these issues among homeowners. However, he is confident that most homeowners skip reading paint can labels, a behavior he suspects is responsible for many homeowners' troubles.
It is essential to understand that paint is essentially colored glue, with paint chemists referring to the adhesive as resin. Different types of resin result in varying paint qualities. Even the basic white glue used by kindergarteners is similar in composition to the cheapest paints. Higher-quality paints use superior resin bases like that found in yellow carpenter's glue.
Epoxy paint is stronger, and it is available for purchase. However, it can be more difficult to work with compared to the water-based paint with a urethane resin that Carter uses for exterior applications. This type of paint is as easy to apply and clean up as any water-based exterior paint.
To achieve a long-lasting paint job, Carter advises paying close attention to several common mistakes homeowners frequently make. First, he encourages reading and following the instructions on the paint can label. The label emphasizes painting on a clean, dry surface. A proper wash involves scrubbing the surface with a brush or special tool to remove dirt and grime—actions that can significantly improve the paint's adhesion.
Wood is one of the most difficult surfaces for paint to adhere to due to its hygroscopic nature. Wood changes its shape in response to moisture content. To minimize the expansion and contraction of wood, Carter suggests painting all sides and cut edges. This "shrink-wrapping" of wood increases the paint's grip, extending its longevity. Lastly, it is crucial to follow the paint label's guidelines on the optimum air temperature for application. Opportunities to paint should be taken on overcast days with minimal wind.
By heeding these simple tips, homeowners can create exterior paint results that rival professionals, with a durable and attractive finish that stands the test of time.
©2025 Tim Carter. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
- The government could consider implementing regulations that require paint manufacturers to provide clearer instructions on paint can labels to help consumers make informed decisions about choosing the right paint for their homes.
- As the Seattle city government invests in infrastructure projects and encourages businesses to create more jobs, it's important to not overlook the significance of home improvements in enhancing the city's overall lifestyle.
- During his political campaign, one of the proposals was to allocate funds for home-improvement programs that would help homeowners learn about proper paint practices, reducing frustration and improving their homes' appearances.
- In neighborhoods where home-and-garden clubs are growing in popularity, discussions about the challenges of maintaining paint jobs on houses with wood exteriors can be an essential part of fostering a supportive community of like-minded homeowners.
