The Problems with Standard Masonry Paint
Masonry Paint and Proteks: do they do the same job?
No! Masonry paint lacks the long-lasting weather protection and breathability of Proteks. Masonry paint can actually damage your walls by trapping moisture.
The UK’s challenging climate puts exterior paint to the test. Traditional masonry paints often fail due to cracking, peeling, flaking, bubbling, and poor adhesion. These issues arise from moisture entrapment, inadequate surface preparation, low-quality paint and primer, and exposure to extreme weather conditions. Over time, these weaknesses not only compromise the building’s appearance but also lead to potential structural concerns.
In harsh weather conditions, masonry paint is recommended to be reapplied every 3 to 5 years. Although masonry paint is cheaper than Proteks, the labour costs involved in repainting every few years make it a lot more expensive in the long run. A buildup of multiple coats of non-breathable paint can actually significantly damage your walls and lead to dampness and mould issues in your home.
Masonry paint requires near-perfect conditions for effective application. If the surface isn’t meticulously prepared – cleaned, dried, and primed – issues like uneven coverage, weak adhesion, and premature failure can occur. Additionally, painting in cold or humid conditions increases the risk of peeling and blistering.
Proteks isn’t a standard paint (it’s an epoxy coating). It’s much stronger and more durable and can be applied in more variable conditions. When you choose our Platinum package, our own installers carry out the application to the highest standard, and your installation is fully guaranteed.
Why not get a free, no-obligation quote?
Masonry Paint vs Proteks
Masonry paint traps moisture, leading to damp problems
Most masonry paints lack breathability, trapping moisture within the wall instead of allowing it to escape. This can result in bubbling, peeling, and even internal damp issues, which may lead to costly repairs down the line. The only ‘paint’ solution is limewash. Limewash has been used for hundreds of years and works great. The main problem is that it isn’t durable and doesn’t stand up to harsh weather.
The Proteks Solution:
Masonry paint is NOT breathable despite some dubious claims made by manufacturers. In fact, with multiple coats, it can often form a thick plastic sheet that has water pouring down behind it. The wall underneath is saturated with water. Proteks is breathable and will not trap moisture.
Masonry paint is prone to efflorescence (white salt deposits)
Standard masonry paints often struggle with efflorescence—white salt deposits that appear on the surface when moisture moves through the masonry. Not only does this ruin the aesthetics, but it also signals deeper moisture problems that traditional paint fails to address.
The Proteks Solution:
As walls treated with Proteks can breathe, there will be no moisture buildup in the first place.
Masonry paint cracks, flakes, and peels under pressure
Moisture buildup behind the paint is a major culprit of flaking and peeling. When sunlight heats the wall, trapped moisture pushes outward, forcing the paint to lift and fail. Even high-quality primers can’t fully prevent this issue when using standard masonry paint.
The Proteks Solution:
At the risk of repeating ourselves, as walls treated with Proteks are breathable, this means no moisture issues and no flaking, cracking or peeling. It’s one of the main reasons Proteks lasts so long.
Masonry paint develops a chalky, faded finish over time
As traditional masonry paint weathers, it often forms a powdery, chalky residue that dulls the original colour. This not only reduces the building’s kerb appeal but also signals the paint’s breakdown, requiring frequent repainting.
The Proteks Solution:
Proteks is an epoxy coating. It’s incredibly tough, flexible and is resistant to fading.
Masonry paint encourages mould and algae growth
Damp and shaded areas create the perfect environment for organic growth, including mould, algae, and lichen. Standard masonry paint offers little resistance to these problems, leading to discolouration and potential health risks.
The Proteks Solution:
Epoxy resins are excellent for resisting mould, mildew, and other biological growth. They are often used in things like pool liners due to their ability to prevent algae from growing.
Masonry paint can cause underlying damp issues
Painting over damp or damaged masonry only masks the problem temporarily. Without addressing underlying damp concerns, traditional masonry paint can exacerbate moisture-related issues, leading to costly repairs.
The Proteks Solution:
With the Proteks Platinum package, our own installers carry out the application. If there are underlying dampness issues, these will be pointed out to you at the survey stage, and we will fix them before applying Proteks. Our installers work to the highest standard, and your installation is fully guaranteed.
Proteks is Waterproof
Proteks creates a water repellent barrier against the harsh British weather.
Proteks has a Long Life
It’s been protecting homes, offices, hotels and multi-story blocks for over 30 years.
Proteks is Breathable
Proteks is microporous. It will stop water penetration, yet allow walls to vent moisture.
Textured or Smooth
The Proteks System offers a finish to suit a vast range of problems.
