CHAPTER 2 -(!J ---
THE 
FIVE 
STAGES 
OF 
EXTERIOR 
COATING 
DETERIORATION 
Every coating ages. Understanding the stages of deterioration 
helps you recognize early signs, take action at the right time, 
and protect the building materials beneath. 
While every building is unique, most exterior coatings progress 
through five predictable stages. 
~ ,-
STAGE 1 
HEALTHY 
PERFORMANCE 
The coating is performmg as 
designed and protecting the 
substrate. 
0 
0 
0 
0 
Surface repels water 
Color and gloss are 
strong 
No visible defects 
Substrate is protected 
from exposure 
FOQ.d: Maintain 
through regular 
in~and 
doanlng. 
STAGE 2 
EARLY 
WEATHERING 
Environmental exposure begins 
to affect the coating. 
0 
• 
0 
0 
• 
Slight fading 
Reduced gloss 
Minor chalking 
Surface dirt or staining 
Early algae or mildew in 
shaded areas 
Focu.: Monitor 
dosely and melnt1in 
p,03Ctiv•ly. 
STAGE 3 
FUNCTIONAL 
DECLINE 
The coating becomes less 
effective at protecting the 
substrate. 
o Moisture retention inaeases 
o More persistent algae 
or mildew 
o Oxidation and discoloration 
o Minor cracking 
O Sealant deterioration 
o Localized S1aining 
FOCIJj; Plan 
"'".ctlvo 
action 
bfatos. 
The goal is not to stop the aging process-
• 
it is to intervene before the substrate suffers. 
. 
WHAT TO LOOK FOR DURING INSPECTIONS 
Regular inspections help you identify which stage your coating is in. 
' 
I , 
I (); I ii + I ~ 
-©-
, I ' 
Fading and 
Water 
Algao, mildew, Cr.,dc;ng.peel,ng.l 
Sealant 
Rust 0< 
eolorchangM 
retention 
or staining 
or flaking 
deterioration 
COffOSion 
The earlier you recognize a stage, 
the easier and more affordable it is 
to protect your property. 
Timely action extends the life of 
both the coating and the building 
materials beneath it. 
STAGE 4 
PROTECTIVE 
FAILURE 
STAGE 5 
SUBSTRATE 
DETERIORATION 
The coating can no longer 
adequately protect the 
substrate. 
The underlying building 
materials are now affected. 
• • 
0 
• 
0 
0 
Peeling or naking 
Extensive chalking 
Blistering 
Exposed substrate 
Corrosion of metal 
components 
Water intrusion at 
vulnerable locations 
Foan: Teko action 
promptly to prevent 
fur1hor dMllgo. 
• 
• • 
0 
0 
Wood decay or rot 
Corrosion 
Concrete or masonty 
deterioration 
Sealant failure 
Moisture intrusion into 
wall assemblies 
Focus, Expect higher 
repair costs and more 
involved ro,t0


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