What paint stops penetrating damp?

Author: Perry Bechtelar  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 31, 2025

While the masonry paint is a coloured paint, the masonry cream is an invisible waterproof treatment, which allows both painted and non-painted properties the ability to prevent penetrating damp.

Can you paint over penetrating damp?

Unfortunately, you can't just paint over damp or mould in the hope it will disappear. Even if you use waterproof paint, it can still seep through over time. Depending on how bad the problem is, you may be able to remove the mould by cleaning the area without repainting.

How do you stop penetrating damp?

The best way to treat penetrating damp is to apply a water-repellent treatment like Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream to halt further dampness and allow walls to dry out.

How do you dry out penetrating damp?

Open windows and doors to allow air to circulate freely, and use fans to speed up the drying process. If possible, use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. A dehumidifier absorb moisture from the air, which helps to reduce dampness and prevent mould growth.

What paint doesn't absorb moisture?

Satin and semi-gloss paints have a higher sheen value, meaning it provides a harder finish that proves more moisture resistant. Along with the benefits of moisture resistance, satin and semi-gloss finishes are also very washable and scrubbable.

How to remove penetrating damp

Which type of paint is best for damp walls?

This is ideal for damp properties, as it will prevent moisture from building up on the surface. The most common breathable paint is called claypaint, but some emulsion paints will also have breathable qualities.

What paint blocks moisture the best?

What Paint to Use on Damp Walls?
  • Dulux Damp Seal Undercoat and White Primer.
  • Zinsser Perma-White.
  • Dulux Trade Weathershield High Gloss for Exterior.
  • Dulux Mouldshield Fungicidal.
  • Polycell Damp Seal.
  • Johnstone's Damp Paint.
  • Ronseal White Anti-Damp Paint.
  • Polar Damp Seal Paint.

Is penetrating damp easy to fix?

Damaged Or Blocked Guttering – This is the most common source of excessive water affecting your property and causing penetrating damp. Fortunately, it is a very simple fix with regards to stopping penetrating damp. Unblock the gutters or repair the deficiencies in your downpipes and gutters.

What draws moisture out of walls?

Use fans to move air around the damp walls. Also use dehumidifiers, which can help remove moisture from the air and walls. Professionals use tools like moisture meters, infrared imaging devices, dehumidifiers and heavy-duty fans. That ensures the walls are truly dry before further repair, painting or refinishing.

How to treat penetrating damp walls internally DIY?

How to repair a damp internal wall
  1. Locate the cause of your damp walls and fix this before continuing.
  2. Buy or hire a dehumidifier to completely dry out the room. ...
  3. Use a stain blocker to prevent future staining.
  4. Replaster your walls.
  5. Redecorate using paint, tiles or wallpaper.

What is the best product for penetrating damp?

Microshield. Permagard's Microshield is an effective high-performing water repellent suitable for external use on masonry materials such as brick, concrete and stone. In one single coat, this microporous water repellent will protect masonry materials against penetrating damp.

Does masonry paint stop penetrating damp?

Unfortunately, standard masonry paints do not prevent this absorption as they are most often acrylic-based masonry paint. Acrylic masonry paints can actually absorb some moisture, which is why they are often referred to as 'weatherproof' or 'weather resistant', rather than waterproof.

Is penetrating damp expensive to fix?

Penetrating Damp Internal Wall Treatment

Costs vary significantly between areas and suppliers, but a rough average is around £70 per metre of the treated wall or around £280 per wall. The costs could easily reach several thousand pounds if you need to treat every wall.

What stops penetrating damp?

Using a masonry protection cream will not only prevent penetrating damp but also provide a thermal barrier helping to prevent heat from escaping your property.

Does Zinsser stop damp?

Made with a unique solvent-based formula that combines a state-of-the-art waterproofing resin with Portland cement to create a coating that stops up to 34psi of water pressure. WaterTite® Waterproofing Paint can be applied to dry, damp or wet surfaces, so water problems can be cured immediately.

Can you get paint to stop damp?

Paints designed for damp often have properties that treat the problem as well and stop it from coming back. They also let moisture escape meaning there won't be a build-up of damp. So if you've fixed the root cause, using a specially formulated damp paint should put a stop to the problem for good.

How to dry out penetrating damp?

Place one or more fans in front of the damp spot and turn them to their highest setting. This helps dry the wall and also gets moisture out of the air. If the fan has an oscillation feature, you can use this to clear more than one damp spot that is within its reach.

Will mold always grow on wet drywall?

No mold doesn't always grow after a leak. If the temperature isn't right or if the leak is properly dealt with quickly, there's a chance that mold spores won't be able to take root or grow.

How do you permanently get rid of damp walls?

To resolve rising damp, either a chemical or osmotic damp proofing course (DPC), or a new damp membrane must be installed. A DPC is often used and is injected via holes in the masonry, the DPC repels water whilst a damp membrane acts as a physical barrier to stop damp.

Is penetrating damp covered by insurance?

Penetrating dampness occurs when water leaks through roofs, windows, and cracks in walls, causing damp patches on internal walls. Penetrating dampness is generally not covered by buildings and home insurance, as the gradual deterioration of the building materials mostly causes it.

How to tell the difference between condensation and penetrating damp?

To determine which one is the problem, look for discoloration and mould on walls and ceilings. If the dampness is due to condensation, the walls will be cold and the air will be humid. If the dampness is due to penetrating dampness, the walls will be damp and there will be water stains.

Will tanking stop penetrating damp?

Tanking is a reliable way of dealing with the effects of penetrating damp once the root cause has been fixed.

What is the best paint for high moisture walls?

Paints with a glossy sheen—like satin or semi-gloss—are best for humid rooms. Instead of absorbing moisture like matte or eggshell paint, they deflect it. Glossy paints can resist moisture because they have a more complex finish. Another benefit of using glossy paint is that it is easy to clean.

Is there a moisture proof paint?

If you are dealing with a leaky roof that is letting water in, Rust-Oleum's waterproofing Fillcoat Fibres paint will be a great solution. This waterproofing paint can also be applied directly to wet areas and in any weather conditions, so it's perfect for quick repairs.

Is there an anti condensation paint?

Dryzone Anti-Condensation Paint has been developed to reduce condensation and mould growth on interior walls. The paint is simply applied to clean and debris-free surfaces using a standard paintbrush or roller, as per standard decorating practice.

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