Exterior blistering after painting a San Ramon house can be frustrating and unsightly. Blisters are bubbles that form under the paint and cause it to lift away from the surface. Understanding what causes this problem can help you prevent it and maintain the appearance of your home. Here, we will focus on the common reasons for exterior blistering and how to avoid it.

The Common Reasons for Exterior Blistering

Exterior blistering can occur for several reasons. Here are some common causes to be aware of.

• Moisture: Moisture trapped under the paint can cause blisters. This can happen if the surface is not properly dried before painting or if there are leaks in the walls.
• Heat: Painting in direct sunlight or on a hot surface can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to blistering. It’s best to paint in cooler temperatures and shaded areas.
• Poor Surface Preparation: If the surface is not properly cleaned or prepped, the paint may not adhere well, resulting in blisters. Make sure to remove dirt, grease, and old paint before starting.
• Incompatible Paints: Using incompatible paints, such as oil-based paint over latex, can cause blistering. Always check the paint labels and use compatible products.
• Excessive Humidity: Painting in high humidity can trap moisture under the paint, leading to blisters. It’s best to paint when the humidity levels are lower.
• Contaminants: Contaminants like dirt, dust, or mildew on the surface can prevent the paint from adhering properly, causing blisters. Clean the surface thoroughly before painting.
• Improper Application: Applying paint too thickly or using the wrong type of roller or brush can cause blistering. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
• Old Paint Layers: If there are multiple layers of old paint, blisters can form between them. It’s a good idea to strip away old paint layers before applying new paint.

How to Avoid Exterior Blistering

Avoiding exterior blistering is essential to maintaining a beautiful paint job on your home. Here are some tips to help you prevent this issue.

• Proper Surface Preparation: Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and grease. Scrape off any old, peeling paint and sand the area smooth before applying new paint.
• Use a Primer: Apply a high-quality primer before painting. This helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform base, reducing the risk of blistering.
• Check Weather Conditions: Paint when the weather is mild, with temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on very hot surfaces.
• Control Moisture: Ensure the surface is completely dry before painting. Repair any leaks and avoid painting in high humidity to prevent moisture from getting trapped under the paint.
• Use Compatible Paints: Make sure the paints you use are compatible. For example, latex paint can be used over latex primer, and oil-based paint can be used over oil-based primer.
• Apply Thin Coats: Apply paint in thin, even coats. This helps the paint dry properly and adhere well to the surface, reducing the chance of blistering.
• Allow Proper Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats. Rushing the process can trap moisture and lead to blistering.
• Ventilate the Area: Ensure good ventilation while painting. This helps the paint dry evenly and reduces the risk of moisture getting trapped.

Tips for Repairing Exterior Paint Blistering

If you weren’t able to avoid blisters in the paint of your home’s exterior, then repair may need to be done. Here are some tips to help you fix this issue effectively.

Identify the Cause

Before starting the repair, determine what caused the blistering. Check for moisture issues, improper surface preparation, or incompatible paints. Fixing the underlying problem prevents future blistering.

Scrape Off Blisters

Use a putty knife or paint scraper to remove the blistered paint. Be gentle to avoid damaging the underlying surface. Remove all loose paint until you reach a stable layer.  You may also need to perform light carpentry work as well.

Sand the Area

After scraping, sand the area smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps to create an even surface for the new paint to adhere to. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth before proceeding.

Prime the Surface

Apply a high-quality primer to the sanded area. Priming helps the new paint adhere better and provides a uniform base. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Apply Paint

Once the primer is dry, apply the paint in thin, even coats. Use a brush or roller suitable for the surface type. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one.

Seal and Protect

After painting, consider applying a sealant to protect the paint from moisture and weather conditions. This adds an extra layer of protection and helps maintain the paint job longer.

Monitor for Issues

Regularly inspect the painted surfaces for any signs of new blistering or other issues. Early detection allows you to address problems before they worsen and require more extensive repairs.

Find the Right Painters to Repair Exterior Paint Blistering

Finding the right painters to repair exterior paint blistering is important to ensure a quality job and long-lasting results. Here are some tips to help you choose the best professionals.

• Check Credentials: Make sure the painters are licensed and insured. This protects you from liability and ensures they meet industry standards.
• Look for Experience: Choose painters with experience in repairing exterior paint blistering. Ask about their past projects and success in handling similar issues.
• Read Reviews: Look at online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google and Yelp. Positive feedback from previous clients can give you confidence in their work.
• Ask for References: Request references from past clients and contact them. This can provide insight into the painters’ reliability and quality of work.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several painters to get quotes for your project. Compare their prices, services, and timelines to find the best fit for your needs.
• Assess Their Knowledge: During the consultation, ask about their approach to repairing paint blistering. Knowledgeable painters can explain the process and recommend the best solutions.
• Review Portfolios: Look at their portfolio of previous work. This helps you see the quality of their repairs and their attention to detail.
• Discuss Materials: Ask about the types of paints and primers they use. Quality materials are important for lasting repair and can prevent future blistering.
• Observe Professionalism: Pay attention to their communication and punctuality. Professionalism in these areas often reflects their commitment to quality work.
• Check for Warranties: Inquire if they offer any warranties or guarantees on their work. This provides peace of mind, knowing that they stand by their repairs.

Conclusion

Understanding what causes exterior blistering after painting can help you prevent this common problem. Issues like moisture, heat, poor surface preparation, and using incompatible paints are often to blame. By addressing these factors, you can achieve a smooth, long-lasting paint job on your home’s exterior.

If you need professional assistance with repairing or preventing exterior blistering, contact Custom Painting, Inc. Call us at 925-866-9610 or fill out our Contact Form.