Poor Hiding

APPEARANCE:
Transparency in the dried paint film allows characteristics from the substrate or undercoat to be visible.

PROBLEM:
While paints are designed for opacity, poor hiding can allow variances in the substrate or previously applied coating material to be visible through the dried paint film.

CULPRITS:
There are several reasons why a coating may appear transparent, or suffers from poor hiding levels. They are:

• Excessive use of reducer: Because reducers are totally transparent, using too much reducer takes away from the normal hiding level of the paint.
• Improper choice in undercoat material: Certain color primers are more difficult to cover, depending on the color of the paint. For instance, dark paint colors (such as black) will cover a dark undercoat faster than a light gray or white, just as a white paint will cover a light colored primer faster than a black or dark gray.
• Uneven color on substrate: Body fillers and other variations in substrate color may not be immediately visible beneath the paint film, though they can still have an effect on hiding, causing an uneven appearance.
• Insufficient material applied: Depending on the paint color used, sometimes a manufacturer’s suggestion is not enough to achieve proper hiding, and additional coats should be applied.
• Improper material preparation: Paint should be sufficiently agitated prior to use. This is especially true with older materials, because pigments may easily settle to the bottom of a container if left untouched for long periods.

Note: Certain colors and types of paint provide lower hiding levels than others, requiring additional coats to achieve desired appearance.

TO FIX:
Continue applying properly agitated and reduced material until desired hiding level is achieved.