Chalk Run-Down

PROBLEM SOLVER – CHALK RUN-DOWN

Chalk Run-Down is the washing down of chalk from an excessively eroding paint onto another area below (a brick foundation, for example), ruining its appearance. See Chalking.

POSSIBLE CAUSES:

  • Use of a lower quality, highly pigmented paint.
  • Use of an interior paint for an outdoor application.
  • Erosion of factory-finished metal siding.

SOLUTION:

Remove as much of the chalk residue as possible (see Chalking). Scrub any stained areas with a stiff brush, using a detergent solution; rinse thoroughly. In cases of severe staining, an acid wash may be necessary. Either way, if the affected area dries to a different color, consider painting it with a quality latex paint. Eroding aluminum siding should be thoroughly cleaned (power washing recommended) before painting with a quality exterior latex paint.