When you finish a painting project, you feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, but that feeling quickly disappears once you notice cracks in the paint. What can be more frustrating is that you have done it all the right way, and even then, it ends up forming cracks.

To be honest, it’s not always the case; perhaps you are inadvertently making a mistake.

If you too feel like why my spray paint is cracking, you need to read this article as here we explore the possible reasons behind it, what is the best way to fix spray paint cracks, and how we can avoid having the cracks in the first place.

Starting with, let’s get to know the reason and see what we have been doing wrong all this time.

Why Does My Spray Paint Crack?

Before you blame the quality of the paint, hear us out and learn what causes your spray paint to form cracks.

It’s the temperature

There are some limitations to spray painting, even though it’s quick and easy. As for the paint cracking, possibly, the extreme temperature is to blame for this. Spray paint is not feasible for use in extreme weather conditions. Too hot or too cold, in both circumstances, you are wasting your resources as you won’t get the perfect finishing in the end.

Humidity

Along with the temperature range, humidity levels also have an effect on the paint. If there is high moisture in the air, it will not only delay the drying process but will also cause the paint to drip or to form cracks.

Thick coating

You are wrong if you think that a thick coating will make the painted surface look smoother and brighter. The thick coating creates many problems that include paint cracking. You easily fall into the deception of over spraying the paint, and instead of giving you a smooth finish, it creates an uneven surface and makes the paint crack.

When you apply thick coats, the top layer dries, leaving the underneath paint as it is. What do you think? Will it not make the cracks?

Instead of thick coating, apply multiple thin coats, and you will be surprised to see the effects. It will increase the time, but for better outcomes, it’s all worth it.

Not giving enough time to dry

It’s a common practice among us that we apply multiple coats without letting the previous layer dry completely, causing the spray paint to crack. If you keep doing this, the paint will not adhere to the surface and start peeling off.

Not preparing the surface

Another obvious reason for the paint to crack is that you don’t prepare the surface for painting. It is crucial that the surface should be made clear of all dirt, debris, grease, or any other thing that makes it rough.

How To Fix Spray Paint Cracks?

If you have painted already and see that there are cracks, you can fix them using the following steps.

1. You have to scrape off the cracked paint. Clear the surface, wipe out using sandpaper, but go gentle. You are not obliged to remove the paint completely.
2. Once you have scrubbed the cracks, clean the object, and the surface should now look smooth.
3. Apply primer. It will help you make the surface even and also help in paint adhesion.
4. Clean the surface after applying the primer.
5. Now apply the paint but keep in mind not to repeat the same mistakes. Be sure that you know why your spray paint cracks.

How To Avoid Having Spray Paint Cracks?

Remember, fixing anything requires double the effort and sometimes double the resources. For future projects, keep these points in mind to get a crack-free painted surface.

Since now we know the reasons as well, being extra careful about those points will be enough, but the more tips you have, the better you will apply the spray paint.

• Preparation is important, and that involves setting up the workspace at the appropriate time/day. Don’t forget to check temperature and humidity factors.
• Primer is valuable; apply it to gain good results.
• Paint quality cannot be ignored at any point. So, utilize high-quality paint, and make sure it is made for a particular type of material.
• Be sure that you know how many coats you need to apply. Do not overspray the paint, or it will create issues.
• Do not apply multiple coats at the same time; wait between coats and let them dry completely. If you are short on time, the drying process can be speed up using various techniques.

In addition to the given tips, be sure that you apply the paint in an approved manner. That includes keeping the right distance, shaking the paint can before use, and sealing the surface. Be clear that if you follow the guidelines strictly, there will be no mistakes.

Conclusion

It’s devastating to see all your effort go in vain when you see the paint crackles. You feel even more disappointed when you are unsure what went wrong during the process. While we have discussed the potential reasons that include extreme weather conditions, over-spraying, and not making the preparations, you also get to know how you can fix the spray paint cracks.

Next time you start doing the spray paint, just be extra careful about these points, and you will have a smooth painting experience.