Mildew
 

Description:
Black, gray or brown spots or areas on the surface of paint.

Possible Cause:
• Forms most often on areas that tend to be damp, or receive little or no direct sunlight (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms).
• Use of an oil based paint in areas with no ventilation.
• Failure to prime a bare wood surface before applying the paint.
• Painting over a substrate or coating on which mildew has not been removed.

Solution:
Test for mildew by applying a few drops of household bleach to the area; if it is bleached away, the discolor is probably mildew.  Remove all mildew from the surface by scrubbing with a diluted household bleach solution (one part bleach, three parts water), while wearing rubber gloves and eye protection.  After allowing the mixture to sit on surface for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly.  To protect against mildew, use a top quality latex paint, and clean when necessary.  Install an exhaust fan in high moisture areas.  Use a product that contains mildewcide.

Recommended System:
Topcoat
FLEX BON PINNACLE Interior 100% Acrylic Latex Wall and Trim Enamel