How to Troubleshoot Interior-Paint Problems

To prevent or treat mildew, wash wall surface with a 1-to-3 solution of bleach and water and let it stand for 15 minutes before rinsing. Paint over it with mildew-proof paint. After painting, be sure to utilize bathroom and kitchen fans to increase circulation.

If the paint is blistering, scrape off the blisters, sand the wall to feather hard edges and repaint. If the blisters go all the way through to the substrate (bare wood or dry wall), find and address the moisture problem first.

Apply a high-quality primer and topcoat to prevent cracking or flaking. This usually results from over-thinning or overspreading the paint, inadequate surface preparation or failure to apply primer on wood.

Apply primer, as well, to prevent lapping, when a darker, denser color arises from stroke overlap. Prime porous surfaces and allow the primer to dry thoroughly before applying the topcoat. Work in small areas, painting from wet areas into dry, unpainted surfaces. This helps to maintain a wet edge.

To prevent and treat shiny or dull spots, use a primer or sealer to achieve uniform porosity and apply another coat. Maintain a wet edge using the process explain above.

To prevent roller marks from appearing, use high-quality rollers, and make sure they're dampened before being used. Work in 3-foot-square sections, applying the paint in the shape of a W. Then, fill in and complete the area with light, parallel strokes.