Common Challenges in Industrial Painting and How to Overcome Them
Industrial painting is essential for protecting surfaces, improving durability, and achieving a professional finish across commercial vehicles, machinery, and buildings. But even experienced painters encounter problems such as adhesion issues, blistering, or sagging. Understanding these challenges—and how to fix them—can save both time and money.
At Independent Paint Supplies (IPS), we provide not only high-quality paints and coatings but also expert guidance to help our customers overcome common industrial painting problems.
1. Adhesion Problems
The Issue:
Paint that doesn’t properly bond to the surface often leads to peeling or flaking. Adhesion problems usually occur when surfaces aren’t prepared correctly, or when the wrong type of primer or paint is used.
Solutions:
- Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface before painting.
- Abrade smooth or glossy surfaces to improve paint grip.
- Apply a suitable primer designed for the substrate (metal, plastic, or masonry).
- Use high-quality industrial paints, like those supplied by Independent Paint Supplies, to ensure maximum adhesion and long-lasting results.
2. Blistering
The Issue:
Blistering occurs when bubbles form under the paint film. This often results from moisture, painting in high humidity, or applying paint onto a hot surface.
Solutions:
- Always check environmental conditions—avoid painting in very hot, humid, or damp environments.
- Make sure surfaces are completely dry before application.
- Use coatings formulated for industrial environments, which IPS can advise on for your specific project.
- Apply paint in thinner, controlled coats to allow for even drying.
3. Sagging (Runs and Drips)
The Issue:
Sagging happens when too much paint is applied at once, especially on vertical surfaces. This not only looks unprofessional but also weakens the protective coating.
Solutions:
- Apply multiple thin coats instead of one heavy coat.
- Use the correct application technique for the equipment (brush, roller, or spray gun).
- Adjust spray gun settings for even coverage.
- Choose paints with the right viscosity for the job—Independent Paint Supplies stocks a wide range of industrial coatings that minimise sagging.
4. Other Common Issues
Chalking: A powdery surface residue caused by UV breakdown—use UV-resistant coatings and schedule regular maintenance.
Colour Fading: Often from prolonged sun exposure—select durable, fade-resistant pigments available at IPS.
Cracking or Crazing: Caused by applying overly thick coats or incompatible layers—ensure correct paint systems are used together.
Partner with Independent Paint Supplies
At Independent Paint Supplies, we don’t just sell paint—we help solve problems. Our expert team can advise on:
- The right surface preparation methods
- Which primers and coatings are best for your project
- Application tips for a flawless industrial finish
- Maintenance solutions to keep coatings performing for longer
Whether you’re working on commercial vehicles, industrial machinery, or buildings, IPS has the products and expertise to ensure a professional, durable finish every time.
Industrial painting can present challenges, but with the right preparation, techniques, and products, these issues can be overcome. By partnering with Independent Paint Supplies, you’ll have access to high-quality paints, coatings, and expert advice—helping you get the job done right the first time.
Contact Independent Paint Supplies today for guidance on your next industrial painting project on the numbers below:
Swansea: 01792 784078
Cardiff: 02920 022461