Cracking or flaking is the splitting of a dry paint film through at least one coat as a result of aging, which ultimately will lead to complete failure of the paint.

In its early stages, the problem appears as hairline cracks; in its later stages, flaking occurs.

• Use of lower quality paint that has inadequate adhesion and flexibility.
• Overthinning or overspreading the paint.
• Inadequate surface preparation, or applying the paint to bare wood without first applying a primer.
• Excessive hardening and embrittlement of oil-based paint as the paint job ages.

Remove loose and flaking paint with a scraper or wire brush, sanding the surface and feathering the edges. If the flaking occurs in multiple layers of paint, use of a filler may be necessary. Prime bare wood areas before repainting.

Use of ultra premium quality primers, sealers and undercoats and top coats, should prevent a recurrence of the problem. Using a premium quality acrylic paint on woodwork will give the best results.