diytradespecifier
Trade LogoTaub Mans Trade

Manage Coating Performance Issues: Flaking, Cracking and Wrinkling

Explore professional solutions to finish inconsistencies like flashing and pin holing

3 min
Person painting a white wall with a roller, wearing a grey t-shirt. The wall is patchy.

Flashing, Pin Holing, Drying Issues and Poor Opacity

Subtle imperfections can detract from an otherwise professional paint job. Understanding and addressing issues like flashing, pin holing, drying problems, and poor opacity is essential for delivering high-quality results.

https://a-ap.storyblok.com/f/3000981/724x482/fa0b6a2cd3/paint-flashing-inconsistent-2.jpg

What causes paint flashing?

Flashing appears as uneven sheen or gloss levels, often caused by inconsistent substrate porosity, poor application techniques, or improper blending.

Solution: Prime with Easycoat Sealer & Undercoat or 3 in 1 Prep for a consistent surface. Apply paint using even strokes and a quality roller. Low-sheen paints like Professional Interior Broadwall can reduce visibility of flashing.

Field Tip: Always check lighting angle and surface porosity during application. Use tinted undercoats where needed.

Read more
https://a-ap.storyblok.com/f/3000981/683x512/6b32e98241/pin-holing-paint.jpg

What is pin holing and how do you fix it?

Pin holes are tiny craters in the paint film, often resulting from trapped air or painting over dusty or porous surfaces.

Solution: Thoroughly clean and sand surfaces. Apply a filler primer like Tradex Ultra Prep to smooth inconsistencies. Avoid overworking paint or applying too fast.

https://a-ap.storyblok.com/f/3000981/683x512/77c6e73426/cracked-paint-peeling-off-wall.jpg

What causes drying issues in paint?

Wrinkling happens when the paint surface dries faster than the underlying layer, often due to high temperatures or heavy application. This is a common concern during summer or when using slow-drying alkyd enamels.

Solution: Apply thin, even coats. Paint within the ideal temperature range (10–35°C), and observe all recoat intervals. Use fast-drying solutions like Tradex Quick Dry for optimal productivity in warm climates.

Compliance Tip: Refer to AS/NZS 2311 standards for painting in temperature-sensitive environments and recommended dry film thicknesses.

What causes drying issues in paint?

Cold, damp conditions or poor airflow can cause tackiness or sagging. Winter months in southern Australia or wet seasons in the north make this a common concern.

Solution: Stick to the recommended temperature range (10–35°C). Ensure good airflow and use Tradex Quick Dry to reduce wait times without compromising quality.

https://a-ap.storyblok.com/f/3000981/724x483/fa768d01a3/painting-internal-wall-001.jpg

How to improve opacity and coverage

Poor opacity is often due to improper mixing, thin film build, or low-hiding paints.

Solution: Stir thoroughly, use the right roller nap, and apply high-opacity paints like Endure or Tradex Walls. For deep or bright colours, use a tinted undercoat to boost coverage.

Other useful Guides for you
6 Easy Steps To Painting Outdoor Furniture
6 Easy Steps To Painting Outdoor Furniture
Protect and refresh your outdoor furniture with Taubmans! Learn expert tips on cleaning, prepping, and painting to withstand Australia’s weather conditions.
Door Refresh Guide - How to Paint Interior and Exterior Doors
Door Refresh Guide - How to Paint Interior and Exterior Doors
Refresh interior or exterior doors with this easy DIY guide. Learn how to prep, repair and paint for a professional finish using the right tools.
How to Choose the Best White Paint for Your Home
How to Choose the Best White Paint for Your Home
Discover popular white paint colours for Australian interiors and exteriors. Learn key factors to consider, expert tips and common FAQs to choose the perfect white paint for your home.