Do you have an application inquiry? Check the categories below and click on your question. If you do not find help for your specific query, e-mail or call us for answers.
Help…my Bristol Finish is Bubbling!
First Coat on Bare Wood
Solution: Some wood, especially very porous wood types like mahogany can have excess air trapped in the wood grain, so if the first coat is on bare wood it could create bubbles. If bubbles form immediately, break bubbles with the brush by gently applying another coat right away. You may also thin the working batch 5% to 10% with acetone, MEK, or our Tropical Reducer.
Overworking the Applicator (Over-Brushing)
Solution: Do not over-brush the coating during application. This can mix excess air into the coating. Lay the coating on gently with a minimum of brush strokes.
Too Much Wind or Air Movement
Solution: This can cause skin drying, leaving trapped solvent. Don’t perform bright-work projects on days that are too windy.
Coating Applied Too Thickly
Solution: This can also cause skin drying, leaving trapped solvent. Brush on or spray a nice thin, even coat.
Applying Cool Material Onto a Hot Surface
Solution: This can cause thermal shock. On a 70 degree Fahrenheit day in full sun, the surface may be over 100 degrees. If they coating material is stored below decks in a boat, or indoors in the shade, there may be too great a temperature differential. Warm the mixed working batch next to the project piece for 15 minutes or so.
Moisture is Present
Solution: If the surface has too great a moisture content, or if the working equipment has moisture present, it will react with the urethane chemistry to produce carbon dioxide, and cause bubbles. Make sure the working piece is completely dry, and also the application equipment.
Surface Contamination
Solution: Oil, soap, or wax contamination may cause bubbling or fisheyes (craters). Insure that the project surface is completely clean.
