Problem Solver

Solutions for common paint failures

Surface Cracks

due to settlement, age or movement of structure.

Cause / Prevention / Tips

  • Surface or hairline cracks can appear due to settlement, age or movement of structure.
  • It can also appear due too fast air dried plaster or high clay content.
  • Surface cracks will appear on film surface and might lead to paint failure.
  • Allow newly plastered surfaces to cure properly before application of primer and top coat.
  • New buildings might require early maintenance due to settlement and uncured painted plaster.

Remedy

  • Open cracks, remove efflorescence, loose and flaking paint.
  • Allow to dry until moisture content is below 15% measured with an ultrasonic meter or over 5% with a pin-type meter, apply PlasterSeal, PlasterPrime or DampCure to stabilize surface.
  • For plaster repair use HydroKey cement additive.
  • For a water barrier homogeneous slurry mix 5ℓ HydroKey, 7.5Kg sieved plaster sand and 2.5Kg Portland cement.
  • As additive to plaster mix or tile cement, HydroKey may be diluted up to 1:1 with water.
  • Apply undiluted to substrate when used as a keying agent, allow to air dry before application of new plaster or gypsum mixed with HydroKey ratio.
  • Spot prime with PlasterSeal or PlasterPrime & repaint entire surface.