Term: alligatoring

Alligatoring is a term used in the painting and coatings industry to describe a specific type of paint failure that resembles the cracked and patterned skin of an alligator. It typically appears as a series of wide, irregular cracks in the surface of the paint film, often exposing the underlying layers.

Causes of Alligatoring:

• Incompatible Paint Layers: Applying a hard, rigid topcoat (like oil-based enamel) over a softer, more flexible undercoat (like latex) can cause the top layer to crack as it dries and ages.
• Aging and Natural Deterioration: Over time, older oil-based paints can lose elasticity, leading to cracking.
• Improper Surface Preparation: Painting over a dirty, glossy, or poorly prepared surface can prevent proper adhesion.
• Applying Paint Too Thickly: Heavy application can cause the surface to dry faster than the underlying layers, leading to tension and cracking.
• Temperature Extremes: Painting in very hot or cold conditions can affect drying and curing, contributing to alligatoring.

Solution:

To fix alligatoring, the affected area usually needs to be:

1. Scraped and Sanded to remove all loose and cracked paint.
2. Primed with a suitable primer.
3. Repainted using compatible paint systems and proper application techniques.

Alligatoring is both a cosmetic and functional issue, as it can lead to further deterioration if not addressed.