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Causes
- Use of a lower quality paint that has inadequate adhesion and flexibility.
- Over thinning the paint or spreading it too thin.
- Poor surface preparation, especially when the paint is applied to bare wood without priming.
- Painting under too cool conditions or in warm, windy conditions that make latex paint dry too fast.
- Use of oil-based paint over surfaces that undergo constant contraction and expansion.
Solutions
- It may be possible to correct cracking that does not go down to the substrate by removing the loose or flaking paint with a scraper or wire brush, sanding to feather the edges, priming any bare spots and repainting.
- If the cracking goes down to the substrate, remove all of the paint by scraping, sanding and/or use of a heat gun; then prime and repaint with a quality exterior latex paint. Old, flaking paint may contain lead, so precautions for lead paint should be followed.
- Use high-quality paints that are formulated to provide a flexible film.
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BEHR® Paints, Stains & Primers.
About Interior Paint Sheens
Get the look you want and the protection you need for any room in your home.
FLAT
A flat sheen has a non-reflective finish that touches up well and hides minor surface imperfections.
Applications:
Low-traffic areas; interior walls and ceilings
Areas:
Ceilings
Durability:
Medium-Low
MATTE
A matte sheen has a low-luster, reflective finish that is durable, easy to clean, touches up well and also hides minor surface imperfections.
Applications:
Low-traffic areas; interior walls
Areas:
Family rooms, living rooms, kids' rooms, bathrooms, dining rooms, ceilings
Durability:
Medium
EGGSHELL ENAMEL
An eggshell enamel sheen has a soft, velvety appearance that resists dirt and grime, as well as mildew.
Applications:
Moderate-traffic areas
Areas:
Family rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kids' rooms, hallways, dining rooms
Durability:
Medium
SATIN ENAMEL
A satin enamel sheen has a pearl-like finish that's easy to clean.
Applications:
All interior surfaces; moderate- to high-traffic areas
Areas:
Family rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kids' rooms, hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, doors, windows, trim, cabinets, shutters, interior furniture
Durability:
Medium-High
SEMI-GLOSS ENAMEL
A semi-gloss enamel sheen is sleek and radiant resisting mildew, moisture and wear.
Applications:
Cabinets and trim; high-traffic, high-moisture areas
Areas:
Kids' rooms, hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, doors, windows, trim, cabinets, shutters
Durability:
High
HI-GLOSS ENAMEL
Hi-Gloss enamel sheens provide have a brilliant, shiny appearance and a durable, glass-like finish that allows dirt and grime to be wiped clean.
Applications:
High-use surfaces
Areas:
Kitchens, bathrooms, doors, windows, trim, cabinets, shutters, interior furniture
Durability:
High
About Exterior Paint Sheens
Set the right curb appeal with exterior painting efforts that last.
FLAT
A flat sheen is non-reflective, and easy to apply and touch up. It will minimize the appearance of minor surface imperfections.
Applications:
Wood and vinyl walls and siding; brick and other masonry; fences
Durability:
Medium-Low
SATIN ENAMEL
A satin enamel sheen creates a pearl-like finish that's durable and dirt-resistant. It will also resist moisture, fading and stains.
Applications:
Virtually all exterior surfaces
Durability:
Medium-High
SEMI-GLOSS ENAMEL
A semi-gloss enamel sheen is sleek and radiant with a hard, durable finish. It is formulated to withstand wear, and will also resist moisture, fading and stains.
Applications:
Doors, trim and shutters; Exterior furniture
Durability:
High
HI-GLOSS ENAMEL
Hi-Gloss enamel sheen have a brilliant, shiny appearance and a durable, glass-like finish that allows dirt and grime to be wiped clean.
Applications:
High-use surfaces
Durability:
High
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is here to help professional painters, contractors, and property managers with all their paint needs. We offer:
- Free Same-Day, Next-Day Delivery*
- Call, Text, or Email Your Paint Order
- Will Call & Schedule Deliveries
- Custom Color Matching
- Product & Record Order Management
- Expert Paint Knowledge
*Where available. Limitations may apply.
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PRO PAINT SPECIALIST
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- Call, Text or E-mail your orders to your dedicated BEHR PRO Paint Specialist
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PAINTING CONTRACTORS
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Contact a BEHR PRO® Paint Rep for details or sign up at homedepot.com/ProXtra
Your BEHR PRO® Paint Rep
BEHR PRO PAINT REP
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THE HOME DEPOT® OFFERS SPECIAL SAVINGS, SERVICES AND TOOLS FOR PRO XTRA MEMBERS.