PROBLEM SOLVER – LAPPING

Lapping is the appearance of a denser color or lighter gloss where wet and dry layers overlap during paint application.

POSSIBLE CAUSES:

  • Failure to maintain a “wet edge” when applying paint.

SOLUTION:

Maintain a wet edge when painting by applying paint toward the unpainted area and then back into the just painted surface. This technique (brushing from “wet to dry” rather than vice versa) will produce a smooth uniform appearance. It is also wise to minimize the area being painted, and plan for interruptions at a natural break, such as a window, door or corner (especially important when applying stain to bare wood). Alkyd paints generally have superior wet edge properties.