Poor print resistance is the tendency of paint film to take on the imprint of an object that is placed on it (e.g., a shelf, table, window sill, or countertop with books, dishes, and other objects).

What Causes It?
Using a low-quality semi-gloss or gloss paint can lead to poor print resistance. Also, putting a painted surface back into use before paint has fully dried can lead to this problem.How to Solve It
Use only top-quality acrylic semi-gloss or gloss latex paint. Low-quality latex semi-gloss and gloss paints can have poor print resistance, especially in warm, damp conditions. Acrylic latex paints generally have better print resistance than vinyl latex paints. Fully cured alkyd paints also have excellent paint resistance.

Make sure you allow for the recommended “cure” time for the paint before it is put into service. Cool or humid conditions require more curing time.

Note: Images provided by The Rohm & Hass Paint Quality Institute.