All Blogs
Choosing the Right Waterproofing Coating for Your Project
10
Oct
Oct
Water intrusion, damp, and leaks are frequent culprits behind building damage, mould, and costly repairs. A well-chosen waterproofing coating doesn’t just mask issues — it protects your structure for years. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through selecting the correct waterproofing solutions UK homeowners and professionals trust, highlight leading product types (based on what people search for), and show you how to apply the best damp proof coating for lasting protection.
Why Waterproofing Is Essential
Before diving into product selection, let’s understand why investing in quality waterproof paint for exterior walls and other surfaces matters:
- ✅ Prevents structural decay – Moisture compromises concrete, masonry, and steel over time, leading to cracks, spalling, and corrosion.
- ✅ Improves internal comfort – Dry walls and floors discourage mould, mildew, and musty smells that affect air quality and health.
- ✅ Extends service life – A proper moisture barrier paint system reduces the need for repeated patching or expensive rework.
- ✅ Adapts to different materials – From brick and stone to timber and metal, modern coatings can be tailored to suit any substrate.
- ✅ Protects your investment – Whether it’s a home, warehouse, or industrial facility, waterproofing safeguards property value.
Did you know? According to industry research, untreated damp can reduce a property’s value by up to 20% and cost thousands in remedial work. Prevention with the right waterproofing coating for concrete floors or walls is always more cost-effective than cure.
Step 1: Assess Your Surface and Conditions
Before buying any waterproof coating, you need to identify two critical factors:
- What surface are you protecting? (Concrete, brick, metal, timber, render, etc.)
- What conditions does it face? (Rising damp, rain exposure, UV damage, chemical contact, foot traffic, etc.)
Here’s a quick reference table to help you match surface to the best waterproof coating for your needs:
| Surface | Common Issue | Ideal Coating Type |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete floor / basement | Rising damp or vapour transmission | Liquid Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) |
| Masonry or brick walls | Rain penetration or moisture ingress | Breathable masonry water repellent |
| Flat or pitched roof | UV exposure, pooling water, weathering | Acrylic or bitumen roof coating |
| Metal structures | Corrosion, rust, chemical exposure | Bitumen paint or flexible epoxy coating |
| Timber (sheds, fences) | Rot, decay, moisture absorption | Bitumen-based or wood-specific waterproof paint |
| Render or stucco | Cracking, water ingress, frost damage | Flexible masonry sealer or silicone repellent |
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your surface type or the source of damp, consider consulting a surveyor or damp specialist before applying any waterproof paint for basement walls UK. Treating the symptom without addressing the cause can lead to recurring problems.
Step 2: Understand Coating Types & How They Perform
Different waterproofing solutions UK professionals rely on are engineered for different challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:
| Type | Best For | Key Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitumen-based coatings | Roofs, tanks, metal, timber | Cost-effective, flexible, excellent adhesion, UV-resistant when modified | Can be difficult to overpaint; not suitable for potable water |
| Liquid DPM / Epoxy membranes | Concrete floors and basements | High impermeability, durable, resistant to rising damp | Requires careful surface prep; not breathable |
| Acrylic or silicone repellents | Masonry, brick, and render | Breathable, weather-resistant, UV-stable, easy to apply | May require reapplication every 5-10 years |
| Polyurethane / Polyurea systems | Industrial floors, chemical environments | Hard-wearing, chemical and abrasion resistant, fast-curing | Higher cost; often requires professional application |
| Cementitious coatings | Basements, water tanks, tunnels | Excellent for negative water pressure, rigid, long-lasting | Not flexible; can crack with structural movement |
What Does “Breathable” Mean?
A breathable waterproof paint for exterior walls allows water vapour to escape from within the wall while preventing liquid water from entering. This is crucial for older properties with solid walls, as trapping moisture inside can cause more damage than the rain outside.
Rule of thumb: Use breathable coatings on exterior masonry and non-breathable (impermeable) moisture barrier paint on concrete floors or areas with rising damp.
Step 3: Match Your Project to the Right Palatine Product
Here’s a detailed comparison of Palatine Paints waterproofing products to help you find the perfect match:
| Application | Recommended Product | Ideal For | Coverage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basement / concrete floor | Damp Proof Membrane Paint | Domestic floors, industrial slabs, garages | 4-6m² per litre | Prevents rising damp & moisture vapour; tough, solvent-based formula |
| Roof or guttering | Acrylic Roof Coating | Domestic & trade roofing projects | 5-8m² per litre | Quick-drying, flexible barrier; UV-resistant; suitable for felt, metal, concrete |
| Exterior walls | Masonry Water Repellent | Homes, warehouses, heritage buildings | 3-5m² per litre | Breathable, UV-resistant; invisible finish; protects against driving rain |
| Metal or timber | Bitumen Paint | Posts, sheds, gates, steelwork, tanks | 6-10m² per litre | Tough, economical & rust-resistant; excellent adhesion to metal and wood |
| Below-ground structures | Tanking Slurry / Membrane | Cellars, retaining walls, foundations | Varies by product | Waterproof under hydrostatic pressure; suitable for internal and external use |
How to Choose Between Products:
For damp basements: Start with a Liquid DPM on floors and a tanking system on walls if water pressure is present. This creates the ultimate moisture barrier paint system.
For leaking roofs: Use Acrylic Roof Coating for quick repairs or Bitumen Paint for long-term heavy-duty protection against UK weather conditions.
For exterior walls: Choose Masonry Water Repellent if the wall needs to breathe (most UK homes), or a flexible coating if there’s movement or cracking. This is the best damp proof coating for breathable masonry.
For sheds and fences: Bitumen Paint offers the best value and durability for timber and metal in outdoor conditions.
Step 4: How to Apply Waterproof Coatings Like a Pro
Most Palatine waterproofing paints are DIY-friendly, but proper application is essential for long-lasting results.
Surface Preparation (The Most Important Step)
Clean thoroughly: Remove all dirt, dust, oil, grease, algae, and loose material. Use a stiff brush, pressure washer, or degreaser as needed.
Repair damage: Fill cracks, holes, and gaps with appropriate filler or mortar. Allow to cure fully before applying your best damp proof coating.
Dry completely: Most waterproofing coatings require a dry surface. Check moisture levels with a damp meter if unsure. Concrete should be cured for at least 28 days.
Prime if necessary: Porous or dusty surfaces benefit from a primer to improve adhesion and reduce absorption of your moisture barrier paint.
Application Techniques
Tools: Brush, roller, or airless sprayer depending on product type and surface area.
Conditions: Apply waterproof paint for exterior walls in dry weather, ideally between 10-25°C. Avoid application in direct sunlight, rain, or frost.
Coats: Most products require 2-3 coats for full waterproof protection. Apply each coat at the recommended thickness (check the datasheet).
Drying Time:
- Touch dry: 2-4 hours
- Recoat: 4-24 hours (product-dependent)
- Full cure: 2-7 days
Coverage: Always calculate based on the technical datasheet. Porous surfaces will absorb more and may require an extra coat.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping surface preparation before applying waterproof paint for basement walls UK
❌ Applying too thin a coat to “stretch” the product
❌ Not allowing adequate drying time between coats of moisture barrier paint
❌ Working in wet, cold, or humid conditions
❌ Ignoring manufacturer guidelines on primers and thinning
✅ Pro Tip: Always do a small test area first, especially on porous or previously painted surfaces, to check adhesion and coverage of your best damp proof coating.
Step 5: Maintenance & Longevity
Even the best waterproof coating needs occasional maintenance to perform optimally.
Inspection Schedule:
- Annually: Check for cracks, peeling, or areas where water may be pooling
- After storms: Inspect roofs, gutters, and exposed walls for damage
- Every 5-10 years: Consider recoating high-exposure areas (roofs, south-facing walls)
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment with the Right Coating
Whether you’re sealing a garden shed, waterproofing a warehouse floor, or protecting a factory bund, choosing the right waterproofing coating will safeguard your investment for years to come.
At Palatine Paints, we design coatings that are:
✅ Durable and easy to apply – Trusted by DIY enthusiasts and trade professionals alike
✅ Engineered for harsh UK conditions – Rain, frost, UV, and coastal exposure
✅ Cost-effective – Professional performance without the premium price tag
✅ Backed by technical support – Our team is here to help you choose and apply the right product
✅ Engineered for harsh UK conditions – Rain, frost, UV, and coastal exposure
✅ Cost-effective – Professional performance without the premium price tag
✅ Backed by technical support – Our team is here to help you choose and apply the right product
Ready to Get Started?
Shop Waterproofing Products
Need advice? Contact our technical team for project-specific recommendations
Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive tips, product launches, and special offers
Need advice? Contact our technical team for project-specific recommendations
Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive tips, product launches, and special offers
FAQs About Waterproof Paint & Coatings
Q: What surfaces can I use waterproof paint on?
Waterproof coatings from Palatine Paints can be used on a wide range of surfaces — including brick, concrete, metal, wood, render, and roofing materials. Whether you’re protecting an exterior wall, sealing a flat roof, or waterproofing a garage floor, there’s a product designed for your specific substrate.
Important: Always check the product datasheet to ensure compatibility with your surface type.
Q: What’s the difference between bitumen, epoxy, and acrylic waterproof coatings?
Each type serves a different purpose:
Bitumen-based paints are great for roofs, metal, and wood — offering a tough, weatherproof barrier with excellent adhesion. They’re cost-effective and flexible but can be harder to overpaint.
Epoxy coatings are heavy-duty and ideal for industrial or high-moisture areas like basements, tank rooms, and chemical storage. They create an impermeable barrier but aren’t breathable.
Acrylic waterproof coatings are water-based and breathable, perfect for exterior masonry, render, or brick. They’re UV-resistant and easy to apply but may need recoating every 5-10 years.
Choosing the right type depends on your surface, exposure to elements, and whether breathability is required.
Q: Do I need a primer before using waterproof paint?
A: In most cases, yes. A primer improves adhesion and ensures the waterproof coating performs as intended — especially on:
- Porous surfaces (bare concrete, brick, render)
- Dusty or powdery substrates
- Previously painted surfaces
- Metal (to prevent corrosion)
Palatine offers compatible primers designed to pair with our waterproofing systems for best results. Check the product datasheet for specific primer recommendations.
Exception: Some products are self-priming on certain surfaces. Always read the technical information first.
Q: Can I use waterproof paint indoors?
Some products are suitable for interior use, such as cellars, basements, utility areas, or garages — but not all.
Indoor-safe products:
- Water-based DPMs
- Low-VOC acrylic coatings
- Cementitious tanking systems
Not suitable for living spaces:
- Solvent-based bitumen paints (strong odour, high VOCs)
- Industrial epoxy coatings (unless specifically rated for indoor use)
For bathrooms and kitchens, use a moisture-resistant interior paint rather than an exterior waterproof coating, which may not be safe or low-odour enough for occupied spaces.
Always ensure adequate ventilation and wear appropriate PPE during application.
Q: How many coats do I need?
Usually two coats are recommended for full waterproof protection, though:
- Highly porous surfaces (bare concrete, brick) may need three coats
- Exposed or high-traffic areas (roofs, industrial floors) benefit from an extra coat
- Metal surfaces often need a primer plus two topcoats
Allow the recommended drying time between coats (typically 4-24 hours depending on product and conditions) to achieve optimal adhesion and waterproofing performance.
Contacting us is easy!
Email: [email protected]
Call Us: 01942 884 122
Contact form: https://www.palatinepaints.co.uk/contact-us
Live Chat Service: Press the small blue icon at the bottom left of your screen.
