HOW TO FIX PAINT BURNISHING OR MARRING

Burnishing or marring occurs if the gloss or sheen of paint film increases or decreases when subjected to repeated rubbing or washing. Learn why these problems occur—and how to prevent them from happening in the first place.

A well-designed kitchen with a section designed to highlight burnishing or marring on its painted surface

What Causes Paint Burnishing or Marring?

Often occurring with the use of flat paint, burnishing is typically seen in high-traffic areas that require frequent cleaning, such family rooms, hallways, stairs and doors.

Common causes of burnishing or marring include:

Frequent washing and spot-cleaning of painted surfaces, especially with an abrasive cleanser

Using flat paint in high-traffic areas

Using paint with minimal washability and scrub resistance

Objects rubbing against the paint (furniture against walls, for example)

What Causes Paint Burnishing or Marring?

Often occurring with the use of flat paint, burnishing is typically seen in high-traffic areas that require frequent cleaning, such family rooms, hallways, stairs and doors.

Common causes of burnishing or marring include:

Frequent washing and spot-cleaning of painted surfaces, especially with an abrasive cleanser

Using flat paint in high-traffic areas

Using paint with minimal washability and scrub resistance

Objects rubbing against the paint (furniture against walls, for example)

A staircase with beautifully painted walls

How to Prevent Paint from Burnishing or Marring

Here are some solutions to help you prevent this problem on job sites or in your own home:

Make note of where furniture and other objects are rubbing against painted surfaces

When necessary, clean painted surfaces with non-abrasive cleansers using a soft cloth or sponge, and rinse with clean water

For maximum durability, wait at least two weeks after painting before washing the surface

Paint high-traffic areas with a higher sheen: eggshell, satin, pearl, semi-gloss

Avoid using a flat sheen in high-traffic areas

Use a quality acrylic or latex paint: Regal^® Select for a 100% acrylic engineered with washable, stain-release technology, or Scuff-X^® for a latex formulated with breakthrough scuff resistance