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Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When it comes to preparing a surface for refinishing, it is easy to make simple mistakes that can lead to small bubbles or pinholes in the surface of the paint. This is commonly known as solvent popping.
When solvents are trapped throughout the refinish process, small bubbles or pinholes can form in the surface of the paint. Some of the causes could be not allowing layers of coating to flash before applying another, as well as applying too much material in one layer. A few other reasons could be force drying a vehicle too quickly, using the wrong fluid nozzle, or applying refinishing materials at the wrong pressure.
Make sure that the surface that is being refinished is prepped with the correct surface cleaner based on the product being sprayed. The surface should be completely dry before any coatings are applied. Using the proper reducer and/or hardener can greatly affect the final outcome of a refinished panel. Read the temperature recommendations to know which reducer and/or hardener should be used for the conditions during application.
These are just a few examples on how solvent popping occurs. Always follow the paint maker instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.
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Article validated in 2025