Alligatoring

Possible cause

• The application of an extremely hard, rigid coating (like a solvent-based enamel) over a more flexible coating, like a water-based primer
• Applying your topcoat before the undercoat is dry
• The natural aging of oil-based paints as outdoor temperatures fluctuate. The constant expansion and contraction of the paint based on the temperature can result in a loss of paint film elasticity
  

Solution

Old paint should be completely removed by scraping and sanding the
surface; a heat gun can be used to speed work on large surfaces, but take care to avoid igniting paint or substrate.

The surface should be primed with a high quality water-based primer and then painted with a top quality exterior water-based paint. Dulux recommends Dulux Weathershield® for a premium exterior paint.