Cracking-Plywood
 

Description:
Thin, long, and relatively straight cracks that form in the paint film usually in the direction of the plywood grain.

Possible Cause:
Plywood cracks from its expansion and contraction with changing moisture content. Plywood is prone to cracking because of its original method of manufacture involving peeling thin sheets of wood from logs. Stresses are induced which later show up as cracking. Many small fissures are produced in films of paints and stains that have been applied to insufficiently dry plywood. The edges of these cracks protrude upward and can be felt as sharp burrs. Subsequently, this coating may become detached from the edges of the cracks and lead to flaking.

Solution:
New wood: To prevent cracking of newly installed plywood, sand and immediately prime. Even minimal exposure to the elements will cause unprotected plywood to degrade.

Repaint: If cracking is severe, replace the wood, for this is an unpaintable surface.

If the cracking is not extensive, sand surface smooth. The plywood must be thoroughly dry. Apply Latex Exterior Wood Primer.

Recommended System:
Primer
1 coat of FLEX BON #194 Series Exterior 100% Acrylic Latex Primer
Topcoat
2 Coats of Top Quality FLEX BON Exterior Latex Paint