Alligatoring

Alligatoring is a term used in painting to describe a situation where the paint on a surface cracks in a pattern that resembles the scales of an alligator’s skin. This usually happens when the top layer of paint fails to bond properly with the layer beneath it. The importance of understanding and preventing alligatoring can’t be overstated, especially in residential and commercial painting.

Preventing alligatoring is important because it not only affects the appearance of the painted surface, but can also lead to greater damage over time. If left untreated, water or other elements can seep into the cracks, causing the paint to peel and the underlying surface to decay. Therefore, understanding alligatoring is crucial for any professional painter, as it helps in ensuring the longevity and quality of a paint job.

Alligatoring: This is when the paint cracks in a way that looks like alligator skin. It can happen because of using cheap paint, not waiting long enough for the paint to dry between layers, or painting a hard layer over a softer one.

Blistering: This is when heat or dampness causes bubbles to form on the paint. It happens when the paint doesn’t stick well to the surface underneath.

Chalking: This is when a powdery substance forms on the paint because it is breaking down over time, usually due to weathering.

Peeling: This is when the paint doesn’t stick to the surface and starts to peel off. It can happen because of dampness getting into the paint, or painting over a dirty or not well-prepared surface.

1. What does Alligatoring mean in house painting and repair?

Alligatoring is a term used in painting to describe when the top paint layer breaks or cracks into a pattern that looks like an alligator’s skin. This usually happens when the top paint layer dries too fast and cracks, showing the first paint layer or the surface underneath.

2. What makes Alligatoring happen?

Alligatoring often happens because paint gets old, but other things can make it happen faster. These include not preparing the surface properly before painting, painting a hard layer over a soft layer, or putting a new layer of paint on before the old layer is fully dry. Extreme weather and big changes in temperature can also make alligatoring happen.

3. How can I stop Alligatoring from happening?

To stop alligatoring, make sure to prepare the surface well before painting, including cleaning and priming. Use good quality paint and paint when the weather is not too hot or cold or humid. Also, let each layer of paint dry fully before putting on the next layer.

4. Can I fix Alligatoring?

Yes, you can fix alligatoring, but it takes some work. You have to take off all the paint that is cracked, either by scraping, sanding, or using a chemical that takes off paint. Once the surface is clean and smooth, put primer on it before you repaint. If the alligatoring is really bad, you might need a professional to help.

5. Can I just paint over Alligatoring?

Just painting over alligatoring won’t fix the problem. The new paint will probably crack and peel off like the old paint. This is because the surface underneath is not stable. You have to take off all the old, cracked paint and prepare the surface properly before you repaint.

6. Is Alligatoring bad?

Alligatoring itself is not bad, but it can mean that the paint is old and might have lead in it, especially in houses built before 1978. If you think the paint has lead in it, get a professional to take it off safely. Alligatoring also lets the weather get to the material underneath, which can cause more damage if you don’t fix it.