1
Stop and observe
Stop application as soon as lifting, wrinkling, crazing or other abnormal behaviour becomes visible. Allow the area to stabilise rather than adding more wet paint.
Paint Reaction
A paint reaction occurs when a new coating behaves unexpectedly over the existing surface or when the coating chemistry is disturbed. Reactions can include lifting, wrinkling, crazing, blistering and severe loss of gloss.
Quick answer
Stop spraying as soon as a reaction appears. Do not bury the problem under more paint. Identify the existing coating, remove unstable material and test compatibility before continuing.
What to do
2
Identify the existing coating
Establish what is already on the surface where possible. Unknown or aged coatings can react unpredictably with new solvents or binders.
3
Check for contamination
Silicone, wax, oil, polish and moisture can cause defects that may resemble a chemical reaction.
4
Remove failed material
Once safe to do so, remove unstable coatings and prepare a sound substrate. Do not trap soft or lifted material beneath another coating.
5
Choose the correct primer system
Where required, use a primer that is compatible with both the substrate and the intended topcoat.
6
Carry out a compatibility test
Test a small hidden area or sample panel before committing to the whole project, especially when the existing coating is unknown.
7
Build the system gradually
Use thin, controlled coats and respect the manufacturer’s recoat guidance. Avoid flooding a sensitive existing finish with solvent-heavy wet coats.
8
Escalate persistent problems
If the reaction continues after sound preparation and compatibility testing, contact AerosolsRus with photographs and details of the existing coating.
Important
Follow the product label and current Technical and Safety Data Sheets. Do not modify, puncture or misuse aerosol containers.
Common mistakes to avoid
Covering a reaction with more wet paint
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Painting over silicone, wax or polish contamination
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Assuming every old coating is compatible
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Using excessive solvent-heavy coats on a sensitive substrate
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Skipping a test panel on an unknown coating
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Sanding through a failed coating without considering the substrate
Review this point before continuing with your coating system.
Frequently asked questions
What causes paint to wrinkle?
Common causes include incompatible underlying coatings, excessive film thickness, solvent attack, unsuitable recoat conditions or contamination.
Why has the old paint lifted?
A new coating can soften or attack an underlying film that is chemically sensitive or insufficiently cured.
Can I paint over a reacted area?
Not until the failed material has been made sound. Adding more coating over a reaction usually hides the problem temporarily rather than fixing it.
Should I always test a new paint system?
A test area is strongly recommended when the existing coating is unknown, sensitive or unusual.
Can AerosolsRus identify a reaction from a photo?
Photographs can help us understand the defect, but a physical inspection or controlled test may be needed to identify the exact cause.
Still need help?
Tell us about the project, substrate and coating issue and our paint experts can help you choose the next step.
Contact a Paint Expert