Will Waterseal change the appearance of my brickwork?
No. Waterseal dries invisible and does not darken, gloss or discolour brick, stone or concrete. It soaks in to repel water from within the surface rather than forming a visible film, so the wall looks exactly as it did before – just protected against rain and water-borne dirt.
Is Waterseal breathable?
Yes. Waterseal is a breathable water repellent, so it stops rain soaking in while still letting moisture vapour escape from the wall. Trapping moisture behind a non-breathable coating can cause spalling and damp, so breathability is what makes it suitable for solid masonry walls.
Does it protect against frost damage?
Yes. Most frost damage happens when masonry absorbs water that then freezes and expands, cracking the surface. By keeping water out of the brick or stone, Waterseal greatly reduces that freeze-thaw damage – which is why it is best applied before winter sets in.
How many coats do I need and what is the coverage?
Apply two coats for best results. Coverage is roughly 3 m² per litre on porous stone and up to 5 m² per litre on hard brick. Brush the first coat on generously, allow about 6 hours to dry, then apply the second coat.
Can I apply Waterseal in winter?
Apply it to a dry surface in dry, frost-free conditions, ideally in autumn before persistent wet weather. The masonry must be dry and rain must not be forecast for several hours after application, so pick a clear, mild spell rather than a wet or freezing day.
What surfaces can I use it on?
Waterseal is suitable for exterior brick, stone, concrete and cementitious render. It is not a substitute for a damp-proof course and is not intended for surfaces that will be painted over – it is designed to leave the natural masonry finish protected and unchanged.
Will it stop penetrating damp?
It significantly reduces penetrating, rain-driven damp by stopping wind-driven rain being absorbed through the face of the wall. It will not cure rising damp, which comes up from the ground and needs a damp-proof course, but for wet walls caused by exposure it is an effective barrier.
How long does Waterseal last?
A correctly applied two-coat treatment typically protects for several years before it needs refreshing, depending on how exposed the wall is. South- and west-facing elevations that take the most driving rain will usually need re-treating sooner than sheltered walls.
