Chalk Run-down

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 Cause:

• 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, and rinse thoroughly. In cases of severe staining, an acid wash may be necessary. Either way, if the affected area dried to a different color, consider painting it with a quality exterior latex paint. Eroding aluminum siding should be thoroughly cleaned (power washing recommended) before painting with a quality exterior latex paint.