How to avoid paint cracking

The Issue

Sometimes issues can occur with newly applied paint and cracks can appear on the surface.

The Cause

This cracking effect can be caused when a brittle paint, such as a standard matt emulsion, is applied over the top of a highly flexible coating such as silk or mid sheen. It can also occur when paint is applied over PVA or wallpaper paste.

The Solution

As a rule, always avoid the use of PVA as a primer/sealer. Where a sheen finish or PVA is present, use a Stabilising Solution or an Alkali Resisting Sealer to prime the surface before repainting with your chosen coating.