Many people hear of masonry paint but don’t know it is different from the regular household paint.
Exterior masonry paint is meant specifically for use on exterior walls, and it can be used on brick, stone, concrete, plaster, lime, cement render, and pebble dash.
Since it is meant to be used on exterior walls, masonry paint must perform exceptionally well. It protects your exteriors from weather damages, molds, rain, pollution, and general deterioration.
Exterior masonry paint adds a layer of protection, sealing the masonry but still allows the moisture to escape for the walls to breathe.
Maintaining a high-quality exterior veneer is crucial because it boosts the resilience and aesthetics of your property.
A. Types of exterior masonry paint
1. Water-based masonry paint
Water-based masonry paint is common and readily available. It is made with an acrylic binder that enhances the layer of protection for your exteriors, protecting against weather extremities and water.
Water-based masonry paint is a good option since it protects the walls while allowing the brickwork to breathe.
2. Mineral masonry paint
Initially invented in the 1900s, mineral masonry paint employs a chemical reaction that allows it to knit into the masonry of the building. It is also known as silicate-based paint.
What happens is that, instead of creating a new layer on the wall, mineral masonry paint absorbs into the surface, and the coating becomes part of the wall rather than forming a layer.
That means it is very durable and also breathable, but it is expensive than water-based masonry paint.
3. Limewash
Limewash is common since it has been in use for many years. It is the traditional way of protecting exterior walls against weather damage and other external elements.
However, you should reapply it after every few years because it can become unstable with age. It is an authentic finish and is breathable.
4. Oil-based masonry paint
Oil-based masonry paints also come in handy to protect your walls, especially in the winter. It can dry within an hour and has stain blocking properties, so you can use it to conceal stains on garden walls.
But, oil-based masonry paint can be hard to clean up and requires a special cleaning solution, so it may not be the best for your environment.
It is not easy to thin down, so many people choose water-based masonry paint that is easier to work with.
B. Benefits of exterior masonry paint
- Enhances the resilience of your property- exterior masonry paint offers a durable, hard-wearing surface that is effective against water and other external weather elements. It can also cover existing stains, and most importantly, it enhances the resilience of your exterior walls. That is why you should choose masonry paint that is resistant to the effects of the weather.
- It gives a unique appearance- you can use masonry paint to bring out a distinctive look of your exteriors. Exterior masonry paints are diverse and can be used on every type of property.
- Improves your curb’s appeal- many homeowners choose exterior masonry paint for aesthetic reasons. It creates an appealing exterior look that enhances your entire curb appeal. It is beneficial, especially when you are selling the property, to attract potential buyers.
C. How to do exterior masonry paintwork
The proper application of masonry paint can bring to life any brickwork, concrete, and exterior wall, or any other surface you wish to transform.
Here are the steps for doing exterior masonry paintwork.
1. Clean the surface
The first step for good paintwork is to clean and prep the surface before anything else. You can power wash the surface to get rid of any old flaking paint.
Ensure you deal with mold and algae by adding some mildewcide in the water or some bleach during the cleaning. You can also use a brush and scraper to clean the dirt off.
Note that any grease and oil on the surface can cause the discoloration of the paint or impact its longevity. You should scrub thoroughly into the masonry to ensure that the masonry paint will adhere well.
2. Repair the defects
If the surface has any defects such as cracks, uneven texture, etc., repair it before applying the paint. For instance, if working on a concrete surface, you can use a fresh concrete mix to patch up then wait for the surface to dry off completely.
3. Select your masonry paint
Your selection of masonry paint largely depends on the surface you want to paint. While some paints are meant explicitly for floor surfaces, others come in handy for that extra grip on slippery surfaces.
Consulting with a masonry paint specialist is vital at this point to guide you into the best paint for your needs.
4. Priming
When it comes to exterior masonry painting, you need to seal and prime the surface before the final paint application. The sealer is essential for stopping moisture or water from seeping through your paint.
Use a quality masonry sealer and a primer that complements it. This process forms a strong, moisture-resistant layer and base for the final painting.
5. Painting
After the sealant and primer are completely dry, that is when you should start your masonry paintwork. Ensure you have all the painting tools, including brushes, for that extra detail on windows and trim.
The brush also comes in handy to meticulously paint between the floor and the wall. You can do the rest of the painting using a roller but ensure you have at least three roller covers; one for the sealant, another for the primer, and the rest for the masonry paint.
When doing masonry paintwork, it is best to work in several thin coats rather than applying one thick coat. Remember that masonry paint creates a harder surface when thin coats are laid on top of each other.
Also, paint cures to different thicknesses depending on its chemistry to ensure sufficient curing time before use. Two full coats of masonry paint are sufficient to provide smooth masonry paintwork on a surface well prepped and in good condition.
By using the right type of masonry paint and proper initial preparation, you should end up with masonry paintwork that will remain vibrant for many years to come.
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