Glossary - O
Obliteration
The quality or degree that a coat of paint hides the underlying surface; opacity.
Oil length
See 'long oil'.
Oleoresinous
Generally refers to varnishes composed of vegetable drying oils in conjunction with resins which may be either natural or synthetic.
Opacity
The ability of a coat of paint to obliterate the surface to which it is applied.
Orange peel
The 'dimple' effect on a paint coating. With spray application it is often caused by insufficient thinning. With roller application it is usually caused by insufficient thinning and/or type of roller used.
Oxidation
The process whereby substances combine with oxygen. Oil paints dry by oxidation of the oil content.
Orange peeling
When spraying, insufficient thinning can create this 'dimple' effect on a paint coating. The same is true when using a roller, or it could be the wrong type of roller for the product used. In any case, to correct the fault, thoroughly clean down the surfaces to remove all dirt, grease and surface contaminants. Rub down with wet & dry abrasion, using water or a suitable solvent, then rinse down and allow to dry thoroughly prior to applying a new paint coating.