Surfactant leaching appears as tan or brown spots or areas, and can sometimes be glossy, soapy, or sticky.
What Causes It?
All latex paint formulas will exhibit this tendency to some extent if applied in areas that become humid (bathrooms, for example), especially in ceiling areas.
How to Solve It
To solve surfactant leaching, wash the affected area with soap and water, and rinse. The problem may recur once or twice before the leachable material is completely removed.
When the paint is applied in a bathroom, allowing it to dry thoroughly before using the shower may be helpful.
Remove all staining before repainting.
Note: Images provided by The Rohm & Hass Paint Quality Institute.
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