7 Damp-proofing products for walls, ceilings and other surfaces
Damp can be a frustrating problem for homeowners, causing unsightly staining, peeling paint and deterioration of interior walls, ceilings and other surfaces. Whether you’re dealing with persistent moisture in a basement, damp patches in a garage or water staining on internal walls, choosing the right damp-proofing product can help protect your property and improve the appearance of affected areas.
From specialist damp-proof paints and basement waterproofing coatings to moisture-resistant sealers, there are several options available for different surfaces and situations. In this guide, we look at seven damp-proofing products and treatments to consider, explaining what they do and where they may be suitable, so you can make a more informed choice for your project.
1. Damp-proof paint for persistently damp walls
Rustoleum Durbocem paint for wet walls is ideal for renovating permanently damp walls. It can be used to give walls a new look again and to rid them of ugly damp spots by building a strong bond with the damp substrate. Durbocem also contains cement and is suitable for use on damp chalking surfaces. If you have persistently damp, stained or flaking walls indoors or in the cellar or garage, Durbocem is well worth considering.
2. Basement waterproofing paint
Specialist coatings such as Zinsser Watertite Waterproofing Paint can help protect suitable basement walls against water penetration, and can even withstand up to 34 lbs (2.3 bar) of water pressure. Zinsser Watertite is a ready to use coating for waterproofing both interior and exterior concrete, stucco, cement, cinder block and other masonry surfaces. It is ideal for interior basement walls and for sealing concrete basement slabs prior to installing flooring. It is also a great product for using on exterior foundations and retaining walls.
3. Damp-proof primer and sealer
Centrecoat Damp Proof Basement Paint is ideal for use in basements or on any interior walls where damp is an issue. It incorporates a water reactive agent which will resolve any residual moisture on the surface. It is suitable for use on brick, concrete, plaster and cement and can be used as a primer or sealer before overpainting, or as a finish in its own right.
4. Cementitious waterproofing coatings for masonry
Mapei Planiseal 88 is a great option for waterproofing masonry and concrete structures, including projects where a cementitious waterproofing system is required. It can be used for the waterproofing of foundation walls, interior and exterior walls, cellars, basements, lift-rooms, swimming-pools, underground passages and irrigation canals.
5. Damp-proof primers for concrete floors
Centrecoat Epoxy Damp Proof Basement Primer is a solvent free epoxy primer which inhibits water vapour transmission and isolates moisture, allowing floor coverings to be laid earlier. Centrecoat Epoxy Damp Proof Basement Primer is best used as a basecoat to seal concrete floors that are prone to damp, such as basements and garages. Centrecoat Epoxy Damp Proof Basement Primer is not a topcoat and is intended for use as a primer that should be over-coated with an appropriate top coat once dry.
6. Flexible sealants for damp-affected surfaces
Beko Hydro-Stop is a single pack, ready to apply, highly flexible sealant for bridging suitable gaps up to 5mm on mineral surfaces subject to damp. It is the ideal product to call on when a paint coating is not appropriate. Beko Hydro-Stop is suitable for use as a waterproof sealant on terraces and balconies and can be used as a foundation base and wall coating. Suitable for use as a waterproof sealant on terraces and balconies. It can also be used for the repair and installation of roofing areas.
7. Specialist coatings for older and historic buildings
Classidur ModernPlus2 AF Mat is a high quality matt paint which blocks stains and has a very high resistance to the growth of mould. It is not only ideal for historic buildings, such as stately homes and churches, but can also be used in school buildings, basements, breweries, and even swimming pools. Recommended for indoor renovation work, directly as a primer and finishing coat, on all kinds of dry and coherent substrates and surfaces contaminated with soot, grease, nicotine or dry water stains.
Choosing the right damp-proofing product starts with understanding the source of the moisture and the surface you need to protect. While specialist paints, sealers and waterproofing coatings can help manage certain damp conditions, they are not a substitute for identifying and resolving the underlying cause, whether that is water ingress, a plumbing leak, condensation or another building defect. Once the cause has been addressed, selecting a suitable coating system can help protect affected surfaces and provide a more durable finish.
Explore our range of damp-proofing paints and waterproofing products from trusted manufacturers, or contact our technical team on 01462 421 333 for help choosing a product for your application.