The Complete Guide to Masonry Waterproofing

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Image Source: FreeImages

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Waterproofing your masonry is an essential step in building maintenance, particularly in places like Peoria, Illinois, where weather conditions can be unpredictable. This comprehensive guide offers insights into why waterproofing is critical, the best products to use, and how to apply them correctly.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Why Protect Your Brick Walls

3. Waterproofing Brickwork & Stone Walls

4. Water Repellent Creams & Sealants for Unpainted Brickwork

5. Waterproofing Cracked & Treated Brick Walls

6. Masonry Waterproofing FAQs

7. Masonry Paint

8. Is Masonry Paint Waterproof?

9. What is a Breathable Masonry Paint?

10. Best Waterproof Masonry Paints

11. How to Apply Masonry Paint

12. Conclusion

Introduction

Waterproofing masonry is the process of applying a protective layer to masonry structures to shield them from moisture and other external factors. This is a crucial investment for both residential and commercial properties to prevent structural damage, which can lead to costly repairs or replacements.

Why Protect Your Brick Walls

Bricks and mortar, though sturdy and durable, are not 100% waterproof. Even modern homes built with cavity walls and largely impermeable materials can suffer from penetrating damp, leading to internal damage and mold growth. Long-term exposure to atmospheric pollutants and severe weather conditions can also result in corrosion, algae and lichen growth, loss of structural integrity, and damage to timber elements.

Waterproofing Brickwork & Stone Walls

Before you proceed with any waterproofing measures, ensure the structural integrity of your walls. Any building faults, cracks, and faulty mortar must be repaired. Once these are addressed, a waterproof façade cream creates an invisible barrier between the elements and your home's exterior, protecting it against driving rain, potential frost damage, and pollutants.

Water Repellent Creams & Sealants for Unpainted Brickwork

If your wall is exposed brick or unpainted render, you can apply a water-repellent cream, such as PermaSEAL Facade Cream or Remmers' Funcosil FC. These creams penetrate deep into the masonry, reducing water absorption and providing a long-lasting invisible barrier against water penetration. They are also breathable, allowing existing dampness in your walls to evaporate.

Waterproofing Cracked & Treated Brick Walls

In situations where traditionalwaterproofing is challenging, such as painted, treated or cracked brickwork, use a product like Remmers Colour Flex. This is a water-repellent paint that is highly impermeable and offers high crack-bridging capacity.

Masonry Waterproofing FAQs

Masonry paints last between 20-30 years, depending on weathering. It's time to reapply the coating when the façade cream gets absorbed into the brickwork.

Masonry Paint

Masonry paint is designed for various vertical wall surfaces, including brick, stone, concrete, plaster, and cement render. It offers weather protection, making it a reliable choice for exterior walls.

Is Masonry Paint Waterproof?

While many masonry paints offer some level of weather protection, they are not 100% waterproof. Advanced masonry paints like Emperor Paint use nano-technology to create a superhydrophobic surface that repels water.

What is a Breathable Masonry Paint?

A breathable masonry paint allows moisture to escape the property, preventing damp issues. Emperor Paint, for example, is a waterproof masonry paint that is also highly breathable.

Best Waterproof Masonry Paints

Some of the best waterproof masonry paints available in the market arePermaSEAL Facade Cream,Microshield Ultra,Remmers Funcosil Facade Cream, andEmperor Paint. These paints have gained a reputation for their exceptional water resistance properties, making them highly recommended choices for anyone looking to protect their masonry. With their ability to withstand the harshest weather conditions, these paints offer long-lasting protection that will keep your masonry looking great for years to come. In fact, their lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years, which is a testament to their durability and reliability. When you invest in these paints, you can have peace of mind knowing that your masonry will be safeguarded against water damage and other potential issues. So, whether you're a homeowner or a professional contractor, consider these top-notch waterproof masonry paints to ensure the longevity and beauty of your masonry structures.

Conclusion

Investing in masonry waterproofing is a wise decision for any property owner. It not only protects your property from water damage but also extends its lifespan and maintains its aesthetic appeal. With the right products and techniques, you can ensure that your property remains well-protected from the elements for many years to come.