previous page Back
Close up image of a surface that resembles mildew growing because of dirt, dust particles accumulating on the paint film.

DIRT PICK-UP - EXTERIOR

Accumulation of dirt, dust particles and/or other debris on the paint film; may resemble mildew.

Causes

  • Use of a low-quality paint.
  • Soil splashing onto siding.
  • Air pollution, car exhaust and flying dust collecting on house body and horizontal trim.

Solutions

  • Text BoxWash off all surface dirt before priming and painting. If unsure whether the problem is dirt or mildew, conduct a simple spot-test (see Mildew). Clean off dirt with a scrub brush and detergent solution, followed by thorough rinsing with a garden hose. Heavier dirt accumulations may require careful power washing. Dirt may be permanently embedded in the paint.
  • While dirt pickup can’t be eliminated entirely, high-quality exterior latex paints typically offer superior dirt pick-up resistance. Also, higher gloss paints are more resistant to dirt pickup than flat paints, which are more porous and can more easily entrap dirt.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Contact a Behr Pro Rep Icon

CONTACT A BEHR PRO® REP

Your reputation depends on your ability to do the job right. BEHR can help.

Find a rep
Technical Services Icon

TECHNICAL SERVICES

1-800-854-0133 ext. 2
Mon - Fri, 6am-5pm PST
Sat, 7am-3:30pm PST
Sun, Closed

PRO XTRA logo

JOIN THE HOME DEPOT® PRO XTRA LOYALTY PROGRAM

Save up to 20% OFF
BEHR® Paints, Stains & Primers.

sign up on homedepot.com
CUSTOMIZE & BUY
Tahitian sky
Small Behr logoS480-5
Compare
BLACK
BLACK
What Sheen Do I Need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when stripping is needed.
$0.00
The Home Depot logoSold Exclusively at The Home Depot