Dulux Trade Quick Dry Satinwood Problems

Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint is a popular choice among homeowners for its quick drying properties and the sleek finish it offers. However, some users have faced issues with the durability and texture of the paint after it has dried. Here’s an analysis of the problem and possible solutions.

The Problem: A user detailed their experience after using Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood to paint internal doors and new skirting boards. While the skirting boards were lightly sanded, the doors were only cleaned with wet cloths. A few months later, the user noticed the paint becoming sticky upon touch and found it easily stained. Moreover, when lightly scratched, the paint peeled off quickly. They wondered if the issues arose due to the water-based nature of the paint or if it was their painting technique that was at fault.

Possible Causes and Solutions:

1. Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Paint: One suggestion was that water-based paint might have been applied on top of oil-based gloss, which could cause such adhesion problems. For better results, it’s essential to ensure the surface is well-prepared and compatible with the paint type.
2. Insufficient Sanding: Not sanding down the surface adequately before painting can lead to adhesion problems. A more thorough sanding, especially of surfaces that were previously coated with gloss, might improve paint adherence.
3. MDF Skirting Boards: Even after sanding and painting, there were reports of the paint peeling off easily, like when a speaker cable touched and removed some paint. Such issues might arise from the quality of the MDF or its initial priming process.
4. Preparation and Application: Another user, who didn’t experience these issues, shared their preparation process. They used the Dulux Trade variant and applied it to various surfaces, including factory primed skirting and previously gloss-coated doors, after light sanding and priming. Their experience suggests that the surface’s initial preparation can make a significant difference in the paint’s final outcome.
5. Oil Interaction: Another point raised was that water-based finishes tend to soften due to the oils in people’s skin, making them less durable, especially in high-touch areas. For instance, kitchen unit doors with knobs may show wear near the knobs due to constant human contact.
6. Choosing Oil-Based Paints: For areas with high traffic or constant human touch, like staircases or handrails, it might be advisable to opt for oil-based paints. They are generally considered more durable than their water-based counterparts. If concerned about drying time, adding terebene to the oil-based paint can speed up the curing process.

Conclusion: While Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint offers many benefits, including quick drying times and a sleek finish, users must take adequate precautions when preparing surfaces and consider the area of application. In high-touch areas, oil-based paints might provide more durability, while water-based paints might be more suitable for areas with less direct contact. Proper preparation and application can ensure a lasting finish, regardless of paint type.