Tips of Cleaning Interior Walls
Interior walls can be subject to all kinds of marks such as dirt, scuffs or hand prints. Cleaning interior walls requires some consideration, excessive cleaning or cleaning using inappropriate cleaning methods can cause irreparable damage to the coated surface.
Within this article we discuss the best practices for successfully cleaning interior walls.
Determine substrate
Before you carry out any cleaning it is best to determine what type of coating has been previously applied to the surface or substrate (if any)
Low gloss coatings – are less durable than higher gloss coatings making them more susceptible to damage from harsh abrasion and chemical cleaning.
High gloss coatings – are more durable, so will endure more abrasion and chemical cleaning, but are less often used on interior walls because they tend to enhance any surface defects, making them more visible.
Cleaning solutions When choosing a cleaning solution check for any abrasives, alcohols or harsh chemicals. Low gloss latex coated interior walls especially cannot endure this type of cleaning product, but some other products would fail if alcohol, bleach or other harsh chemicals are applied to them.
Test patch
Before commencing any cleaning on the full surface, carry out a test patch in an out-of-the-way area to assess the effect on the coating.
Rinse thoroughly
Whatever cleaning solution is used must be removed thoroughly or risk leaving streaking, especially if repainting the surface over the solution. Washing procedures should always be from the “bottom up” to also avoid streaking.
Recommendations
For best results, if you know what coating has been used to coat the surface, speak to the coating manufacturer about any recommended cleaning products or methods to be used.
Products tested by MPI are listed in the MPI Approved Products List (APL) under the relevant standard #. Look out for the MPI Approved Product Label on paint cans!
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