Cleaning painted walls should be a simple chore, and most of the time it is. The exception is those cases where either the stain is too stubborn or the paint is too weak. Either way, you’ll be challenged to scrub harder than the paint can handle.
Quality paints in gloss or semigloss finishes are the most resilient; not only are they more resistant to damage from intense scrubbing, but their slick surface makes it difficult for stains to set and adhere in the first place. Flat, satin, and eggshell finishes are easy to damage with abrasive scrubbers and harsh cleaning fluids.
Here are a few specific scenarios and how to handle them when scrubbing a painted wall:
High Quality, High Gloss
Soap and warm water should do the job when you’re working with durable, strain-resistant surfaces. A little ammonia may also be called for.
Low Quality, Flat Finish
It’s going to be a little risky. Chances are that at least some of the top sheen is going to be scrubbed away. Test your cleaning method—both materials and intensity—on a less visible part of the wall, such as behind paintings or furniture. Avoid abrasive scrubbing implements. Check carefully to see if your test caused any visible damage. If not, you’re good to move forward.
Crayon Marks
Kids and clean just don’t go together. Scrub up after your little artist has made her masterpiece with lighter fluid or mineral spirits.
Fingerprints
Baby wipes will take care of these little smudges.
When a Wash Isn’t Enough
Serious stains and abrasive cleaning can both cause flaws that won’t wash away—it might just be a warning sign that the whole wall is getting past its prime. That’s when it’s time to put on a fresh coat of paint, consider your options and consider giving Zenith Painting a call at 800-381-4601.
We’ll get you started with a free estimate and help you make sure the next coat of paint lasts a good long time!
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