Burnishing

Increase in gloss or sheen of paint film when subjected to rubbing, scrubbing or having an object brush up against it.

Possible causes:

• Use of flat paint in highly trafficked areas, where a higher sheen level would be desirable.
• Frequent washing and spot cleaning.
• Objects (furniture, for example) rubbing against the walls.
• Use of lower grades of paint with poor stain and scrub resistance (see poor stain resistance and poor scrub resistance).

Solution:

Paint heavy wear areas that require regular cleaning (e.g., doors, window sills and trim) with a top quality latex paint, because this type of paint offers both durability and easier cleaning capability. In high traffic areas, choose a semigloss or gloss rather than a flat sheen level. Clean painted surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge and non-abrasive cleansers; rinse with clean water.