The views of Dr. Michael R. Van De Mark on the importance of pH in waterbornes and exposing alkyds to moisture are discussed. Most waterborne coatings are formulated at a pH between 7.5 and 9, though some systems can be on the acidic side, such as 4. The specific target needs to be maintained for the additives, pigments and resins to work together. The alkaline residues are removed if the surface is washed with a dilute acid and if rinsed well and dried, will allow an alkyd to stick to the substrates.