Foaming and Cratering

Formation of bubbles (foaming) and resulting in small, round concave depressions (cratering) when bubbles break in the paint film, during paint application and drying.

Possible Cause

• Shaking a partially filled can of paint.
• Use of a low quality or very old latex paint.
• Applying (especially rolling) paint too rapidly.
• Use of a roller cover with the incorrect nap length.
• Excessive rolling or brushing of the paint.
• Applying a gloss or semi gloss paint with a long nap roller sleeve.

Solution

All paints will foam to some degree during application; however, higher quality paints are formulated so the bubbles break while the paint is still wet, allowing for good flow and appearance. Avoid excessive rolling or brushing of the paint or using paint that is more than a year old. Apply gloss or semi gloss paints with a short nap roller.

Images courtesy of the Paint Quality Institute from Dow Coating Materials