Why is My Paint Flaking?

If you occupy or own a commercial or industrial property and you’ve noticed your building’s paint starting to flake, you’re not alone. This issue is a common frustration and can be widely found on metal clad properties across the UK. Flaking paint not only affects the visual appeal of your property but can also lead to more serious structural issues if not addressed promptly.

Understanding Paint Flaking

Paint flaking occurs when paint loses its adhesion and peels away from the surface it was applied to. This can range from small patches of flaking to large areas of peeling paint. While it might initially appear as a cosmetic issue, flaking paint often signals underlying problems that need resolution to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of Paint Flaking

Poor Surface Preparation
One of the most prevalent causes of paint flaking is inadequate surface preparation before application. Surfaces that aren’t properly cleaned, dried, and primed won’t hold paint well. Dirt, grease, and old paint residues create barriers, preventing the new paint from adhering properly.

Moisture Problems
Moisture is another major culprit in paint flaking. Water can seep into walls through cracks, roof leaks, or faulty gutters, causing the paint to lose its bond with the surface. In damp environments like basements or bathrooms, trapped moisture can lead to bubbling and eventual flaking. Additionally, moisture build-up can saturate insulation, reducing energy efficiency.

Low-Quality Paint Products
Using low-quality paint products can also result in flaking. Cheaper paints may lack the durability or flexibility to withstand environmental stressors such as UV radiation and temperature changes. Over time, this can lead to cracking and flaking.

Improper Application
Flaking paint can also result from applying it in adverse weather conditions or not allowing adequate drying time between coats. Using an experienced application contractor like ourselves can avoid this.

Environmental Factors
External factors like sunlight and UV rays can cause paint to fade and eventually flake. The constant expansion and contraction of surfaces due to temperature changes can further stress the paint film. Specifying UV-resistant paints or protective coatings can combat this issue.

Corrosive Substances
Buildings near industrial areas or coastal regions may face exposure to corrosive substances such as certain chemicals or salts, which can weaken paint bonds and lead to flaking.

How to Address Flaking Paint

Identify the Cause
Before fixing the problem, you need to determine its cause. Is it a moisture issue, poor preparation, or something else? Requesting a free site survey can allow our experienced surveyor to inspect affected areas closely to understand the root cause.

Proper Surface Preparation
We always ensure that the surface is clean and free of debris, old paint, and grease. We use a primer suitable for your building material to create a stable surface for the paint to adhere to.

Repair Structural Issues
If moisture is the issue, address the source first. This may involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or repairing gutters. Once resolved, we make sure all surfaces dry thoroughly before repainting.

Choose High-Quality Paint
We only use high-quality paint products designed for durability and environmental stressors. Our professional team can help you select the best product for your specific needs.

Hire Professionals
DIY projects can be satisfying, but sometimes it’s best to leave it to professionals. Skilled painting contractors like Cladding Coatings will ensure proper surface preparation and the use of right products for long-lasting results.

Partner with Cladding Coatings
At Cladding Coatings, we specialise in commercial and industrial painting applications, offering high-performance coatings that enhance your building’s appearance and protect against environmental damage. Our expert team is ready to tackle any painting challenges, ensuring a high-quality finish that lasts.

Learn more about how our services can benefit your property. Request a free site survey or quotation today. Remember, a well-maintained exterior not only appeals to customers and tenants but also increases the value and longevity of your property.