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Paint Sticking or Blocking

Paint sticking

Paint blocking occurs when two freshly painted, uncured surfaces bond when pressed against each other, frequently in settings such as a door sticking to the jamb or windows sticking to the sill. When separated, the surfaces show paint transfer or peeling.



Why Does Paint Stick or Block?

  • Not allowing the paint to sufficiently dry or cure before closing doors or windows.
  • Using low-quality semi-gloss or gloss latex paints that have poor blocking resistance, especially in warm, damp conditions, as sometimes paint sticks due to humidity.
  • Old coatings on the surface are too thick, not giving the moving surface enough space to shift.


How to Prevent Paint from Sticking

  • Adjust doors and windows to open and close properly.
  • Sand down any existing coatings if they appear to be thick.
  • Use top-quality interior semi-gloss or gloss latex-based paints. These coatings develop superior block resistance over time.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dry time. Thoroughly dried paint will have less risk of peeling due to sticking issues.


How to Fix Paint Sticking or Blocking

  • Remove all loose paint and sand the surface (glossy surfaces should be sanded dull).
  • Clean the area and allow it to dry.
  • Use a top-quality primer and apply topcoat and allow to dry thoroughly according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Make sure to paint in a well-ventilated area to optimize drying and curing time.
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