No matter if you are in a humid coastal setting, a rainy seasonal climate, or simply trying to protect your investment, having a strong and dry brick exterior on your home is imperative. The brick is very porous and naturally breathable, meaning over time, it can absorb moisture. This just opens up a door for water damage to occur (i.e., efflorescence, mold, freeze-thaw issues) and potentially the overall structural integrity as well on unprotected surfaces. Waterproof brick coatings are fantastic, modern methods to ensure your property is protected well into the future while improving the property’s performance and value.
Waterproof Brick Coating is a water-resistant layer of protection (coatings) applied to masonry surfaces (bricks) to help protect them against moisture. Unlike traditional types of coatings, these coatings keep out water but also allow for vapor to be expelled from the surface (brick) that is being coated. So it is allowing the brick to breathe. The modern versions of these types of coatings are comprised of hydrophobic nano-coating, breathable sealers, and advanced polymers meant specifically for brick remediation.
These types of technologies rarely just end up sitting on top of the masonry surface; multiple waterproof brick coatings will actually penetrate deep into the brick channels, which creates a barrier from moisture entering while maintaining the classic look of the natural brick.
Even though bricks are hardy, they will inevitably absorb water from their surroundings over a period of time due to the porous nature of the bricks. As water seeps through a brick veneer, several issues, including aesthetic and structural ones, will develop. These issues, however, can be averted in the initial stages through the application of a waterproof coating to bricks.
Water absorbed into Brick-and-Mortar joints experiences temperature fluctuation, causing the water to expand and then later contract. Over a period of time, these temperature changes, which are a result of water freezing and then later thawing, could cause the bricks to crack, leading to spalling and erosion of the brick face, which will weaken the exterior of your home.
Uncoated brick surfaces that come in contact with rain and wind will become dirty by collecting dust, mosses, mud, and other organic materials that may grow on the surface. When a waterproof coating is applied, a hydrophobic surface is created so that moisture cannot attach to the brick and cause dirt retention. This will allow for cleaner, brighter bricks to be seen while also requiring the minimal amount of maintenance or upkeep.
Dry walls provide insulation at a higher level than damp walls. A wall that has moisture in its bricks can lose heat, thus making the home less energy efficient. Waterproof coatings maintain the dry state of the bricks, which increases the home’s retention of heat during cold months and decreases the amount of cooling needed in warm months, thereby providing you with savings on your utility bill and a higher level of comfort.
If bricks absorb too much water, they will provide a good place for the growth of molds, mildews, and fungi, which would detract from the beauty of your home, but also may affect indoor air quality to the detriment of your health. The use of waterproof coatings can help limit the moisture that the bricks will be able to absorb and will therefore eliminate the possibility of growing biological organisms.
Waterproof coatings provide long-lasting protection against the damage caused by weather. In climates where there is a significant amount of rainfall, high humidity, or where there are frequent freeze-thaw cycles, waterproof coatings will withstand the rigors of the surrounding environment and protect your home from the water damage that it experiences yearly.
When deciding on which waterproof solution is best, it is essential to consider your needs as well as the climate of your area. Below is a list of factors to help guide your purchase of a product or professional service:
Look for coatings with water-beating properties, but allow vapor to escape from the structure through the use of breathable films. The purpose of air is to keep air and moisture in the air, and this prevents moisture from being trapped inside, which may ultimately damage the building.
Bricks that have been treated with a good-quality waterproof coating will typically dry clear, allowing homeowners to maintain the original appearance of their brick, adding the performance benefit without a noticeable change in appearance.
Waterproof products that penetrate to the deepest pore structure of the brick (as opposed to only coating the top surface) provide superior long-term performance while minimizing the potential for cracks to develop on the surface due to rising moisture or freeze-thaw cycles.
When installed properly by a trained contractor, the installation of a waterproof coating on bricks is an easy process. However, before the application of a waterproof finish, the surface must be clean, dry, and devoid of any substance that may compromise the integrity of the waterproof finish. Most waterproofing products may be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer (low-pressure), and they tend to cure into a state where they will be effective and durable without the need for regular reapplication.
Periodic inspections of your waterproof coating, especially after severe weather conditions, will also help you determine whether or not the waterproof coating is working properly. This will help you increase the lifespan of your waterproofing investment.
Homeowners today are building for today and tomorrow. Waterproof brick coating is a smart upgrade for any home because it is a cost-effective solution for adding durability and energy savings to your home.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home with lower maintenance costs because of cold weather conditions or you want a way to preserve the beauty and strength of your brick home exterior, waterproof brick coating is a solution that will help you get your home ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at it. By forming a barrier of water that prevents moisture but allows for perspiration and will maintain its visual appeal, you are making an investment in your home’s health and performance for many years to come one brick at a time.
Waterproof brick coating is a protective treatment that prevents water from penetrating brick surfaces while allowing trapped moisture vapor to escape. This helps protect the brick without affecting its natural appearance.
Most high-quality waterproof brick coatings dry clear and preserve the natural color and texture of the brick. Some specialty products are also available in tinted or decorative finishes.
Depending on the product, climate, and surface condition, a professional waterproof brick coating can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years before reapplication is needed.
Yes. It is especially beneficial in areas with heavy rain, high humidity, coastal environments, and regions that experience freeze-thaw cycles.
Yes. Dry brick walls provide better insulation than damp walls. Keeping masonry dry can help reduce heat loss in winter and improve energy efficiency throughout the year.
