Fading/Poor Color Retention

Definition

Premature and/or excessive lightening of the paint color that typically occurs on surfaces with a southern exposure. Fading/poor color retention can also be a result of chalking of the paint film.

Causes

• Use of a low-quality paint, or interior grade of paint for an exterior application
• Use of a paint color that is prone to ultraviolet deterioration (e.g., certain bright reds, blues and yellows)
• Painting masonry surfaces, such as stucco and concrete, that are not cured properly, resulting in alkali "burn"
• Tinting a white paint that has not been designed to be tinted or adding too much colorant to a light or medium paint base

Solutions

• When fading/poor color retention is a result of chalking, it is necessary to remove as much of the chalk as possible.
• When fading/poor color retention is a result of alkali “burn,” the surface should first be primed with an alkali-resistant primer before applying the finish coat.
• When repainting, be sure to use a high-quality exterior paint and colors that are recommended for exterior use.