What is the cause of the paint defect known as wrinkling?

Wrinkling in paint can often be attributed to exposure to high heat. When paint is applied to a surface that is too hot, it can dry too quickly, causing the top layer to set before the underlying layers have had a chance to fully evaporate their solvents. This quick drying leads to a failure in the overall film formation, resulting in the paint wrinkles.

Furthermore, high heat can increase the viscosity of the paint, causing it to become thick and preventing it from leveling out properly. As the paint dries, the tension created by the top layer can effectively cause it to pull away and wrinkle, compromising the finish's smoothness and integrity.

In contrast, excess moisture during application tends to lead to other defects such as blushing, while inadequate mixing or improper surface preparation might cause issues with adhesion or uniformity rather than wrinkling. Understanding these factors is crucial for achieving a high-quality paint application and finish.