Sagging

Problem

Gravity driven flow on vertical surfaces

Solution

Speed up solvent balance

Control or reduce application of material

Increase application viscosity

Correct spray application, avoid overlap, use correct gun angle, speed, gun movement

Apply several thinner coats

Reduce drafts and application in direct sunlight

Increase temperature of application area

Reduce application nozzle size

Reduce fluid pressure

Seeds

Problem

Small granules in finish

Undispersed or flocculated pigments

Dirt

Resin gel particles

Solution

Check to confirm dirt and not small air bubbles

Clean environment

Clean application equipment

Filter material

Use correct thinner

Store and apply material at room temperature

Separation

Problem

Partial precipitation from solution

Syneresis or phasing of material

Pigment settling

Solution

Change solvent for reduction

Store at room temperature

Ensure good adhesion

Lower amount of reduction

Slower addition of reducer

Keep container sealed to reduce oxidation

Silking

Problem

Parallel lines of irregularities in finish

Floating problem

Phase separation

Specialized Bénard cells

Incompatibility

Solution

Add dispersant

Use silicone additive

Increase application viscosity

Add thixotrope or thickener

Skinning

Problem

Skin on surface of paint

Gummy material in bottom of paint

Solution

Keep containers closed

Check pot-life

Add water / solvent coverage to material

Solvent Trap

Problem

Cracking / crazing of finish after unpacking

Glossy or flat spot after stacking

Solution

Decrease or ensure correct film application

Ensure correct air movement and dry times

Do not store in cold environment before complete cure

Increase cure before stacking or packing

Ensure correct catalyzation

Tearing

Problem

Large cracks in waterborne finish

Uneven drying of the surface before the body of the paint film

Poor through cure in waterborne materials

Solution

Decrease surface heat to finish

Increase substrate temperature

Telegraphing

Problem

Structural or surface features revealed in finish

Show-through of fingerprints, water spots or sanding marks

Solution

Addition of silicone flow agent

Increase viscosity of coating

Addition of thixotrope

Faster solvent balance

White Spots

Problem

White spots or contamination in film

Solution

Ensure flatting agent is completely mixed before application

Filter material before use

Check water separator