Discover the putty isn't sticking after 80% of the work has been done? The only correct solution is to avoid taking unnecessary detours.
When a large area of exterior putty has already been applied, but you suddenly notice powdering, weak adhesion, or peeling , the correct response is: 👉 Stop work immediately + Diagnose accurately + Apply the right solution. Below is a professional, engineering-level guide. Step 1: Stop All Work and Diagnose the Issue 🔹 1. Check the severity Mild: Slight powdering with a nail; tape test pulls off light powder. Moderate: Heavy powdering when rubbed; tape removes large patches. Severe: Putty can be removed easily with a scraper; layer is loose and weak. 🔹 2. Common causes Substrate issues Weak, chalky, or sandy base Dust, oil, or release agents Highly absorbent substrate, not pre-wetted Smooth concrete without bonding agent Putty issues Low-quality or expired putty Wrong additives mixed by workers Poor mixing Application issues One-pass overly thick application Applying next layer before the previous layer dries Fast drying ...