Have you noticed unsightly white streaks or blotches on your painted walls, particularly in areas like bathrooms or kitchens with high humidity? These white patches are a common problem that can make your walls look old and poorly maintained.
In Malaysia, with its tropical climate and frequent moisture, this issue is even more prevalent. But don’t worry, in this article, we’ll uncover what causes these white patches, how to fix them, and the best practices to prevent them from coming back. Whether you’re dealing with a new home or refreshing older walls, these tips will help you maintain a clean and polished finish.
Surfactant leaching occurs when certain ingredients in water-based paints, called surfactants, come to the surface of the paint film. Surfactants are essential in latex paints as they help the paint spread smoothly and retain its colour. However, in humid or damp environments, these surfactants can sometimes rise to the surface, leaving behind white or discoloured patches. While this issue doesn’t affect the paint’s structural integrity, it can compromise the appearance of your walls, especially when using darker colours, which are more prone to this issue due to their higher surfactant content.
Surfactant leaching is usually triggered by high moisture levels. For example, in bathrooms where steam from showers often accumulates, the moisture draws surfactants to the surface. Once the water evaporates, the surfactants remain, creating streaks or blotches. This issue is particularly noticeable on ceilings or walls painted with darker hues, as the contrast makes the leaching more visible.
In tropical climates like Malaysia, the combination of constant humidity and poor ventilation exacerbates this issue. Kitchens, laundry areas, and spaces without proper airflow are especially prone to surfactant leaching.
If you’re not planning to repaint right away, you can take these steps to address the issue:
If the white patches persist or you’re ready to repaint for a fresh look, proper preparation is key to preventing the issue from recurring. Follow these steps for the best results:
For exterior walls, use two coats of Nippon Paint Weatherbond Ultimate, formulated with Quartz and Fibra Technology for excellent UV, rain, and dirt resistance. It provides up to 15 years of protection, keeping your walls vibrant and durable against harsh weather conditions.
Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second for a flawless and long-lasting finish.
Surfactant leaching, while common in high-humidity environments, is a manageable issue with the right approach. By understanding its causes and addressing it promptly, you can restore the appearance of your walls and prevent it from happening again. Nippon Paint’s trusted solutions, including the 1+2 coating system, one coat of sealer followed by two coats of topcoat, provide the durability and protection your walls need to withstand Malaysia’s tropical climate.
With proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and the use of high-quality paint products, you can maintain your walls’ pristine appearance and enjoy a home that looks fresh, vibrant, and inviting year-round. Say goodbye to white patches and hello to beautiful, long-lasting walls!
Note: The colour shades displayed are indicative and not precise representations of our actual paint colours.
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