The scaly pattern on your walls is called Alligatoring; which can be described as a patterned cracking appearance in the paint film, resembling the scales of an alligator.

What are the possible causes?

• Applying a hard, rigid coating, like an oil-based enamel, over a more flexible coating, like a water-based latex primer
• Applying the topcoat before the first coat has dried
• Loss of elasticity in the paint film due to the natural aging of paint
• Failure of the topcoat to bond smoothly with the basecoat
• Applying paint too thickly
• Rate of surface drying is significantly higher than base, in thickly applied paint

What is the solution?

• Remove old paint by scraping, sanding or chemical removal
• Wash with appropriate cleaner and allow surface to dry
• Sand glossy surface to dull finish for application of topcoat
• Ensure surface if sanded to a smooth finish
• Prime before applying premium acrylic paint such as Royale
• Berger recommends Berger Grip & Seal Multi-Surface Primer