Abstract: The subject invention concerns methods revealing surface imperfections on an object comprising the steps of: coating the surface to be inspected with a composition comprising an opaque, water-dispersible liquid, sufficiently surface-adherent and with surface-wetting properties as to create a gloss finish, at least before the liquid dries, on the restored area; inspecting the surface to check for imperfections; and removing said composition with water. The method may also include a step of marking the surface, through the wet composition layer, to indicate the location of imperfections discovered. Also described are compositions and delivery systems suitable for carrying out the method comprising aqueous dispersions of a pigment and a resin, especially a polysaccharide resin.