The topcoat surface dries with a dull or low sheen finish.

Causes

1. Insufficient curing of the primer before application of the topcoat, the drying time was too short, or the film build was too high.

2. Too few coats of topcoat applied.

3. Topcoat applied too thickly and too short flash-off time.

4. Incorrect amount of or wrong hardener used.

5. New paint applied on top of old weak surfaces.

Prevention

Apply primer and topcoats only to the film builds recommended by the manufacturer and observe sufficient flash-off and drying times between different coats. Mix primers and paints according to recommended mixing ratios. Remove or seal old surfaces before priming or painting.

Repair

Allow the entire paint system to cure thoroughly, and if necessary, force dry. Sand the surface and repaint.