The
peeling and cracking paint is a common exterior maintenance issue primarily caused by moisture getting trapped beneath the paint film. This can lead to the underlying wood swelling, causing the paint to lose adhesion and eventually peel away. Causes
- Moisture Intrusion: Water seeping into the wood through uncaulked joints, cracks, or from the ground is a primary culprit.
- Poor Surface Preparation: The issue often stems from the surface not being properly cleaned, scraped, or primed before a previous paint job.
- Incompatible Paints: Applying a water-based (latex) paint over an old oil-based paint can lead to adhesion failure.
- Sun Exposure: UV rays and heat can bake the paint, accelerating the breakdown of the paint resins and worsening the peeling.
Solution
To fix this issue properly and prevent recurrence, follow these steps:
- Identify and Eliminate Moisture Source:Inspect the area to find where water is getting in (e.g., a nearby leak, wood touching the ground, or a lack of proper sealing) and repair it.
- Remove All Loose Paint: Scrape off all the peeling and flaking paint down to the bare, solid wood. A wire brush or power washer (used gently and with proper drying time) can help.
- Sand the Surface: Sand the rough edges to create a smooth, "feathered" transition between the bare wood and the old paint.
- Clean the Area: Wash away all dirt, debris, and any mildew with a mild detergent and let it dry completely (typically 3-5 days for bare wood).
- Prime Bare Wood: Apply a high-quality exterior-grade primer, such as a bonding or peel-stop primer, to all bare wood spots. This seals the wood and ensures proper adhesion for the top coat.
- Caulk Cracks and Joints: Seal any cracks and seams with a high-quality, paintable, flexible exterior caulk to prevent future moisture intrusion.
- Repaint: Apply two coats of a premium exterior acrylic latex paint for the best durability and weather resistance.
