A Guide to Identify and Remedy Stains On Painted Surfaces

Thanks to the house painting professionals at Sherwin Williams, we can provide you with a handy guide to identifying the causes of most stains and discolorations on painted surfaces! Plus, you’ll also find general guidelines on how to eliminate or remedy the most common causes of stains on painted surfaces.

Click on the image that closest represents your stain or discoloration for more information on remediation:

Alkali Burning / Discoloration

Color loss and overall deterioration of paint film on fresh masonry, concrete, or stucco.

Chalking (Powdering)

Appearance of mildew, but affecting a widespread area and does not lighten when tested with bleach.

Darkening / Decaying of Wood

Appearance of mildew, but affecting a widespread area and does not lighten when tested with bleach.

Dirty / Soiled

Accumulation of dirt, dust particles, and/or other debris on the paint film.

Efflorescence (White Crystal Deposits)

White, fluffy deposits of salt crystals on masonry surfaces.

Mildew

Black, gray, green, or brown spots on any surface.

Rust

Reddish, brown (or sometimes black) stains appearing as blotches or streaks on surface or paint (see also Tannin Staining).

Staining – Water, Smoke, Etc.

Stains in the paint surface caused by virtually anything that would bleed, leak, or stick to the paint film.

Tannin Staining

Brownish or tan discoloration on the paint surface (see “Rust”).

Stain Resistance

Failure of the paint to resist absorption of dirt and stains.

Surfactant Leaching

Concentration of water-soluble paint ingredients called “surfactants” on the surface of a latex paint.

Wax Bleed

The problem appears as a splotchy dirt collection.

Still have questions? Contact Connie Nola at 225-806-2068!

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Looking for Baton Rouge house painters and painting contractors?

Connie Nola, owner of Academy Painting, LLC, is much more than a local house painting contractor. Connie and her team of professional house painters transform interiors into vibrant living spaces and create beautiful exteriors that add a layer of protection and extend the life of your home. We proudly recommend high-quality paints from our trusted partner, Sherwin-Williams^®.

Academy Painting provides high quality house painting services, sheetrock installation, custom painting & staining of furniture, pressure washing, and deck treatments and staining to homeowners throughout the Greater Baton Rouge area. Our solid reputation is founded on a commitment to quality workmanship and professionalism in every project we undertake.

Contact us to schedule an in-home color consultation that will help you discover the ideal color scheme for any room of your house!