![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-alkalai-resistance-thb.jpg)
Alkali Burning / Discoloration
Color loss and overall deterioration of paint film on fresh masonry, concrete, or stucco.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirchalkingpowder-thb.jpeg)
Chalking (Powdering)
The formation of fine, white powder on the surface of the paint film due to weathering.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirdarkeningdecay-thb.jpeg)
Darkening / Decaying of Wood
Appearance of mildew, but affecting a widespread area and does not lighten when tested with bleach.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirdirtysoiled-thb.jpeg)
Dirty / Soiled
Accumulation of dirt, dust particles, and/or other debris on the paint film.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirefflorescence-thb.jpeg)
Efflorescence (White Crystal Deposits)
White, fluffy deposits of salt crystals on masonry surfaces.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirmildew-thb.jpeg)
Mildew
Black, gray, green, or brown spots on any surface.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-rust2-thb.jpg)
Rust
Reddish, brown (or sometimes black) stains appearing as blotches or streaks on surface or paint (see also Tannin Staining).
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirstainingwater-thb.jpeg)
Staining - Water, Smoke, Etc.
Stains in the paint surface caused by virtually anything that would bleed, leak, or stick to the paint film
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-artdirtanninstaining-thb.jpeg)
Tannin Staining
Brownish or tan discoloration on the paint surface (see "Rust").
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-stain-resistance-thb.jpg)
Stain Resistance
Failure of the paint to resist absorption of dirt and stains.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-surfactant-leaching-thb.jpg)
Surfactant Leaching
Concentration of water-soluble paint ingredients called “surfactants” on the surface of a latex paint.
![](https://images.sherwin-williams.com/content_images/sw-wax-bleeding-thb.jpg)
Wax Bleed
The problem appears as a splotchy dirt collection.