Troubleshooting

This is an important step in that it gives us a close idea of the time and supplies we will need to complete a project, or of the steps we will have to take during to ensure a professional finish.  

We look for any thing greater in cosmetic damage than minor nail holes such as stress cracks, water damage, staining, flashing, missing trim, old caulking and rotting wood ect... below are a few examples of  problems and our solutions.

Flashing can be a problem if not seen prior to painting, and if not changed will show through again. It can be anything from the difference in binders and additives of the  paints previously used  or the application techniques of the painter who applyed them. Sometimes the patchwork primers used or adhesives not removed prior the last paint job can be the cause. 

Flashing should not be confused with Holidays, which are created from poor paint coverage or uneven coating.

Depending on where the flashing might be or how easily it can be hidden, applying Kills™ or Zinsser™(edge to edge) to a wall, before painting,  is a way of evening the sheen before proceeding with the finish coats.

This does not include any raw surfaces which will need to be prime coated first. Using Kills™ or Zinsser™ as a spot primer is not recommended, we prefer to use a primer with lower resins and more solvents so they can be fully absorbed.  Such as a PVA primer.

In troubleshooting exteriors the problematic areas to be concerned with are soffits, fascia boards, windows casings and door casings ect... 

Severely split or rotting wood will need to be replaced, however light damage can be repaired with an epoxy bonding glue. Bondo® is a two part epoxy resistant to water, shrinkage, cracking and sunlight and once painted offers superior protection.

The condition of the existing paint can indicate where possible damage may be.

Peeling, blistering or discoloration can be indicators of water damage. Prolonged unaddressed issues may create mold which can travel to the interior of your property.

When painting the exterior for instance the environmental temperature plays a big role. It is extremely important to keep wet edges not allowing the paint to dry too quickly creating dry lines. Using an extender such as Floetrol™ for water based paints, or Penetrol™ for oil based paints(most alkyd  paints degrade faster under  UV light), and moving quickly when applying allows us the drying time needed to create a cleaner finish.On the other hand if the temperature is to cold or there is a lot of moisture in the air, the paint will not dry fast enough, and will not cure properly.

 Over the years there have been many problems to troubleshoot and as many solutions to fix them, so we have only listed a few of the more common problems professional painters have to contend with.

*****Page still under construction, look for a longer list of "problems and their solutions" in the future.*****

                                 "We look forward to becoming your painting contractor."