Term: lapping

In painting and decorating, lapping refers to the visible overlap marks that occur when a freshly applied coat of paint is applied over an area that has already started to dry. This results in uneven colour or sheen, often seen as darker or glossier patches, and is especially noticeable with flat or matte paints.

Causes of Lapping:

• Painting large surfaces without maintaining a "wet edge"
• Working in hot or windy conditions that cause paint to dry too quickly
• Not blending sections properly during application

How to Prevent Lapping:

• Always maintain a wet edge by overlapping into the still-wet paint
• Work in manageable sections
• Avoid painting in direct sunlight or high temperatures
• Use high-quality paints with good open time (the time paint remains workable)

Lapping is a common issue in both interior and exterior painting, and proper technique is essential to achieve a uniform finish.