Masonry Paint: How Does It Perform in Practice?
These paints are used for the covering of most facings. In fact, their use in construction is truly diverse; they can be used on rendering, concrete, bricks, existing emulsions, building blocks and masonry painted surfaces, to name just a few.
The surfaces you can paint with this product include: metal, wood, masonry, composites and vinyl/plastic. The basic principle for masonry paint is the same as for wall insulation; it’s designed to decorate and protect the entire surface of the masonry.
Masonry tends to be more porous than woods and metals, which is why these primers and paints have been made to counteract the porous nature of this material.
Masonry is not a good insulating material, due to one predominant feature; the porous nature makes it susceptible to moisture absorption and retention.
Masonry paint is used to provide an insulating value to the wall. In order to be effective, the paint must be fully breathable. Breathable paints allow the moisture to escape to the surface, whilst simultaneously reducing the risk of moisture penetrating the surface and substrate..
The expansion and contraction of the masonry can pose some serious challenges to preparation, with dust, chalking and flaking adding further frustrations to the mix
Why Is Thorough Preparation Important?
Masonry will present you with a number of preparation challenges which can include: dust, chalking, flaking and more.
The most common is the expansion and contraction of the material. It is essential that the surface is effectively prepared to ensure oil based, or latex masonry paints and primers, can work effectively.
Preparation will ensure that you enjoy the best finish. Any products designed to clean and etch the surfaces , any defects must be repaired, and cracks and deterioration must be dealt with effectively before you start using your product.
When asking what is masonry paint used for, you will find that it is used to seal and coat the external walls, while remaining durable, breathable and elastic; enabling it to handle the constant expansion and contraction of the substrate.
It is imperative that the paint doesn’t dry too fast; it must be wet enough to roll, spray or brush onto the wall, ensuring complete consistency. An effective weatherproof paint can be used as a masonry paint if the walls have been prepared and primed in the correct manner.