Burnishing

Change in gloss of the paint film when subjected to rubbing, scrubbing or having an object brush up against it.

Possible Cause

• Use of flat paint in highly trafficked areas, where a higher sheen level would be desirable.
• Frequent washing and spot cleaning.
• Objects (furniture for example) rubbing against the walls.
• Use of lower grades of paint with poor stain and scrub resistance (see Poor Stain Resistance and Poor Scrub Resistance).

Solution

Paint heavy wear areas that require regular cleaning (e.g. doors, window sills and trim) with a premium semi gloss or gloss acrylic enamel. This type of paint offers both durability and easier cleaning capability. In high traffic areas, choose a low sheen, semi gloss or gloss rather than a flat sheen level. Clean painted surfaces with a soft damp cloth or sponge and non-abrasive cleansers; rinse with clean water.

Images courtesy of the Paint Quality Institute from Dow Coating Materials

Colourplus recommends Colourplus Ultra Premium Ultracare Low Sheen for high-traffic areas such as hallways and rumpus rooms, Ultracare Semi Gloss or Ultracare Gloss for window sills, skirtings and doors, and Colourcare Eggshell for interior walls.