Patterned cracking in the surface of the paint film resembling the scales of an alligator.

Bubbles resulting from localized loss of adhesion and lifting of the paint film from the underlying surface.

Undesirable sticking together of two painted surfaces when pressed together (e.g., a door sticking to the jamb).

Increase in gloss or sheen of paint film when subjected to rubbing, scrubbing or having an object rub up against it.

The splitting of a dry paint film through at least one coat, which will lead to complete failure of the paint.

Accumulation of dirt, dust particles and/or other debris on the paint film; may resemble mildew.

Crusty, white salt deposits, leached from mortar or masonry as water passes through it.

Premature and/or excessive lightening of the paint color, which often occurs on surfaces with sunny southern exposure.

Uneven sheen, evident as highs and lows (also known as “flashing”) on a painted surface.

Formation of bubbles (foaming) and resulting small, round concave depressions (cratering) when bubbles break in a paint film, during paint application and drying.

Appearance of a denser color or higher gloss where wet and dry layers overlap during paint application.

Black, gray or brown areas of fungus growth on the surface of paint or caulk.

Deep, irregular cracks resembling dried mud in dry paint film.

Reddish-brown stains on the paint surface.

Loss of adhesion where a water-based topcoat is applied over many old coats of alkyd or oil-based paint.

Occurs when wet wood expands and contracts from moisture and temperature change, causing the paint film to loosen, crack and roll at exposed edges and fall off.

Color loss/burnout and overall deterioration of paint film on fresh concrete and masonry substrate.

Failure of paint to dry to a smooth film, resulting in unsightly brush and roller marks after the paint dries.

Paint that has lost its adhesion to a galvanized metal substrate.

Deterioration of the paint film, resulting in excessive or rapid loss of luster of the top coat. 

Failure of dried paint to obscure or “hide” the surface to which it is applied.

Wearing away or removal of the paint film when scrubbed with a brush, sponge, or cloth.

Failure of the paint to resist absorption of dirt and stains.

Unintentional textured pattern left in the paint by the roller.

Tendency of a roller to throw off small droplets of paint during application.

Downward “drooping” movement of the paint immediately after application, resulting in an uneven coating.

Concentration of water-soluble ingredients (evident as tan or brown streaks or spots and can sometimes be glossy, soapy or sticky) on the surface of a latex paint that can occur on the interior and exterior applications.

Brownish or tan discoloration on the paint surface due to migration of tannins from the substrate through the paint film.

Warping or buckling of vinyl siding panels that have been repainted. 

Stains that come from waxy substances in the reconstituted wood products used to make hardboard siding.

A rough, crinkled paint surface, which occurs when uncured paint forms a “skin”.

Development of a yellow cast in aging paint; most noticeable in the dried films of white paints or clear varnishes.