Archive for November, 2009

What is Poor Galvanized Metal Adhesion?

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

Possible Cause:

• Improper surface preparation, such as inadequate rust removal.
• Failure to apply a primer before application of an oil-based or vinyl latex paint.
• Failure to sand baked-on enamel finishes or glossy surfaces before painting. 

Solution:

Any rust on the metal should be removed with a wire brush; then, an acrylic latex corrosion-resistant primer should be applied (one coat is usually sufficient). New or previously painted galvanized metal that is completely rust-free can be painted with a top quality acrylic latex paint without applying a primer; however, a metal primer should always be applied to unpainted galvanized metal before applying an oil-based or vinyl latex top coat.

Source: Paint Quality Institute

What is Alligatoring?

Alligatoring is patterned cracking in the surface of the paint film resembling the regular scales of an alligator. 

Possible Cause:

• Application of an extremely hard, rigid coating, like an alkyd enamel, over a more flexible coating, like a latex primer.
• Application of a top coat before the undercoat is dry.
• Natural aging of oil-based paints as temperatures fluctuate. The constant expansion and contraction results in a loss of paint elasticity.

Solution: 

Old paint should be completely removed by scraping and sanding the surface; a heat gun can be used to speed work on large surfaces, but take care to avoid igniting paint or substrate. The surface should be primed with a high quality latex or oil-based primer, then painted with a top quality exterior latex paint.

Source: Paint Quality Institute

Welcome to Our Blog!

Welcome to The Arch Painting blog! We are very excited about our new blog and look forward to sharing our ideas and experience on a variety of industry topics. We will add regular blog posts discussing everything from various paint applications to how-to topics to industry trends.

Arch Painting History

Arch Painting was founded in 1997 by Joseph Giacalone, who sought to apply his decade of residential painting experience to launch a full-service painting company focused on providing exceptional service in a distinctly professional manner. Today, Arch Painting’s management team employs a collaborative approach to provide affordable, efficient, and durable painting services. We aim to build client relationships that are as long-lasting as our applications.

New England’s Leading Residential and Commercial Painting Contractor

Arch Painting is the leading provider of painting and wallcovering services for owners of fine homes and businesses in Eastern Massachusetts, Southern Maine, Southern New Hampshire, and Northern Rhode Island. We employ full-time professional painters whose application technique and conduct are carefully monitored by a skilled crew leader, to ensure that our clients are equally pleased with their experience and finished project. The Arch Painting team has solid experience and expertise with a variety of coatings and types of projects.