1080 ftw owner, first EVGA card. Very disappointed. I'm struggling to make a positive of all this but would watercooling the card solve the problem? Forgive my ignorance - I've always shied away from putting a gfx card underwater, but if I have to take the card apart one way or another I'll take the plunge and water cool 
Or would I need to apply the new thermal pads even if I do go down the water route? Either way - not what I expected from a premium product.

Or would I need to apply the new thermal pads even if I do go down the water route? Either way - not what I expected from a premium product.