How to deal with paint bubbles

Paint bubbles can appear as craters where bubbles burst and leave behind holes on the painted surface. Paint bubbles might also be referred to as paint blisters. There are many reasons why paint may blister and a range of factors that can lead to the phenomenon. Here are some of the most common causes:

• you haven't prepared surface correctly;

• you have used an unsuitable paint;

• you haven't applied the paint as advised.

Surface condition issues

One of the main causes of paint bubbles or blisters is trapped surface moisture. As the moisture evaporates from the surface, it applies pressure to the paint leading it to lift from the surface.

Poor paint application

An over-mixed paint can produce bubbles, but these types of bubbles tend to disappear quickly. Satin, gloss and oil-based paints, in particular, are affected by this issue. Paint bubbles can also be the result of using an unsuitable roller. If you are using a solvent-based paint and do not follow recommended drying times between coats, you may end up with small bubbles as the solvents try to evaporate through the layers of paint.

Unsuitable painting conditions

Before applying paint, it's important to check that the room is not too humid, too cold nor too warm. If there is too much moisture in the air, be sure to tackle the source of the issue. Usually, excess humidity can be traced back to a poorly insulated or ventilated room. A cost-effective and practical solution in this case can be to use an anti-condensation or anti-humidity paint. In all cases, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

To prevent paint bubbles, be sure to take all the correct steps to prepare your surface and apply the paint correctly.

1. Check that your surface is perfectly dry before starting.

2. Check that the existing paint is properly adhered.

3. Prepare your surface using an undercoat.

4. Check the temperature of the room.

5. Use the right roller for the paint.

6. Do not use paint that is over one year old.

7. Leave your paint to dry properly between coats.

8. Do not move the roller too quickly.

If your paint already has bubbles, there is unfortunately little else for it than to start from scratch

1. Scrape away any big blisters.

2. Sand down the surface to remove as many paint bubbles as possible.

3. Use a filler to cover up any remaining imperfections.

4. Sand down the surface once again.

5. Apply a fine surface filler if necessary and sand one final time.

6. Apply an undercoat to encourage the paint to adhere properly.

7. Apply the paint once again in one or two coats.