Perhaps the most demanding test for the efficiency of a good painting contractor is to paint in Mid-Atlantic region of US, where temperature swings are very normal. This is due to the potentially damaging effects of the climate, where the temperature may become very low at night and then rise above 32 degrees during the daytime. The changes in the temperature place stress on a coating since the substrate tends to
enlarge and contract along with the temperature fluctuations.
Let’s face the truth – you can’t control the weather. However, as a contractor, having a clear knowledge on how the weather fluctuations can affect paint job can help you take better decisions and be a knowledgeable resource to your customers.
Freeze/Thaw Cycling:
Severe temperature swing occurs in the Mid-Atlantic region of US from late fall through early spring. A freeze/thaw cycling is particularly frequent in this region. A house in the Mid-Atlantic region of US can experience a large amount of freeze/thaw cycles during this period. The free/thaw cycles create the biggest challenge for an exterior paint job since it places lot of pressure on the paint. If the paint you put on top of the surface isn’t flexible enough, this pressure can cause the paint to crack and eventually flake off. The best way to avoid this challenge is to use a top quality acrylic paint that tends to be tougher and more flexible than ordinary paint.
Ultraviolet Sun Rays:
Another enemy that the painting contractors have to content with in Mid-Atlantic region of US is the ultraviolet sun rays. The downside of the scorching sun and a great sunny weather in these regions is that the ultraviolet rays of sun tend to deteriorate paint’s binder. UV ray breaks down the binder, resulting to release pigment from the paint in a powder or chalk-like form. Direct exposure to UV rays can even result in fading with many paints and erosion of the paint’s protective qualities.
High Moisture:
Direct exposure to continuous rain, snow, frost, and high moisture can all take their toll on your paint job. High moisture in the air can cause your paint to soften and swell. This may lead to blistering, cracking, and peeling. Furthermore, excessive moist weather can encourage the rapid growth of mildew. Top quality paint has superior binder. As a result, top quality paint adheres to substrates better than any ordinary paint.
A good painting contractor knows the right solution to fight against the challenges of painting in Mid-Atlantic region of US. Therefore, you always need to hire a top quality painter to avoid any future problems.