Treating damp and mould can be a headache. Taking care of the damp and the issues that are causing it can be difficult enough, but what about the mould that often comes with it? That can be unsightly and even a health hazard.

Once you have solved any damp issues, you should try to protect your walls against mould in the future. The easiest way of doing this is to use some anti mould paint. The best anti mould paints can effectively stop the growth of mould in the future and help to protect against damp.

The best anti mould paints contain biocide chemicals. These kill off the bacteria that creates mould to give you a clean looking wall and future protection. However, anti mould paint is a bit of a controversial topic. When it comes to anti mould and damp proof paint, there are plenty of people out there who insist that it just doesn’t work. This comes down to using it incorrectly.

You must make sure you’re using the mould paint correctly by addressing the initial cause of the damp as well. Using the right mould paint is also important since they vary in effectiveness and potency.

We have scoured the market to find the best anti mould paints, for a variety of different scenarios. These are the paints that we have used personally, as well as the ones where customers report the best results. If you’re looking for anti mould paints that just work, then these are great contenders.

Ronseal Anti Mould Paint – Our Best Anti Mould Paint

Ronseal makes a variety of different anti-mould and damp proof paints, but when it comes to anti mould this is our number one choice. This Ronseal anti mould paint just gets the job done. It contains a biocide inside the formula. This kills off bacteria and mould when they start to form. The protection should last up to 6 years, so you don’t have to worry about mould any time soon.

Ronseal anti mould paint is available in different colours and as an emulsion. With a lot of choices, you can seal your walls against mould without sacrificing how they look. You’ll get a good coverage per can with 13m2 per litre. It only takes around 2 hours to dry, so applying this anti-mould paint can be finished quite quickly.

Ronseal is one of, if not the best all-round anti mould paints available on the market. It is quite affordable, and most customers get what they need from it. Few have complaints about it not working when it is used correctly. This paint is protective against moisture too, but it is primarily for treating mould.

Pros

• Lasts up to 6 years
• Good coverage for price
• Different colours and styles available
• Quick to dry

Cons

• Requires multiple coats
• Less effective against damp

To learn more about Ronseal 6 Year anti mould paint click here

Dryzone Anti- Condensation Paint – Anti-Mould Paint for Condensation

This Dryzone anti condensation paint is formulated to fight against the damp that forms from condensation. It is also effective against the growth of mould that results from condensation damp. This is a more specific anti mould paint than the Ronseal. If you’re looking for protection against condensation damp and mould specifically, then this is the best anti mould paint for you.

This paint fights condensation with a thermal effect. It keeps the wall slightly warmer than average paint, which makes it harder for condensation to form. It also has an open-pore structure which makes it resistant to moisture while still being breathable.

Condensation damp can be a real hassle, but this type of paint does a great job at stopping it. It acts as a layer of protection against the growth of mould. This fights both condensation and its effects. It’s a paint that is tough on mould and tough on the causes of mould.

Pros

• Keeps walls warm to discourage condensation settling
• Open-pore structure to reduce moisture build up
• Fights against the growth of mould
• Dry After 1-3 Hours

Cons

• Short shelf life can cause problems for some people
• Very thick paint so poor coverage per litre

To learn more about Dryzone anti condensation paint click here

Rempro Thermal Paint – Good Anti Mould Paint for Painting Over

Many anti mould paints look good enough on the wall to not require a second coat. But that doesn’t work for everyone though. If you want to use a non-white colour or use wallpaper, it can be trickier to prevent mould. This is an anti mould and condensation paint that is formulated to be repainted. You can paint over it, and this paint won’t lose any effectiveness.

You can apply this paint as a thick layer over a wall to act as an insulator against condensation. It’s glass microspheres helps a wall retain heat, which stops condensation from building up. It also effectively treats mould that could grow from condensation.

Rempro thermal paint is great if you want something that gets the job done and can be hidden away after. Reviews find it to be functional and does what it says. It insulates your walls, and works fine if you paint over it with something a bit nicer looking.

Pros

• Thermal Paint Keeps Surfaces Warm to Prevent Condensation
• Works on Different Surfaces like Wallpapered Walls, Plaster, Brickwork, and Concrete
• Blocks Mould and Fungal Growth
• Can be Painted Over Without Losing Effectiveness

Cons

• Very Thick
• Difficult to Use with a Roller

To learn more about Rempro thermal paint click here

Dulux Easy Care Anti-Mould Paint – The Best Mould Paint for Bathrooms

Dulux’s anti mould paint is specifically formulated for use in bathrooms. With a lot of hot water and often poor ventilation, bathrooms are some of the most common rooms for mould to grow in. This Dulux paint protects against mould, but also against all the steam and moisture that will hit a bathroom.

This is an anti-mould paint that looks good on your wall without having to use anything else. Coming from Dulux, you can get it in a variety of colours to match how your bathroom is decorated.

Reviews of this paint are generally positive, particularly in its ability to block mould. The paint is supposed to protect for up to five years. This is definitely one of the best anti mould paints available on the market, particularly if you’re trying to protect a bathroom.

The main drawback with this one is that it takes quite a few coats to finish. The paint isn’t very thick, so it can take more than two coats to cover an older colour in some cases. 

Pros

• Resistant to Moisture and Steam
• Protects Against Mould
• Clean Presentable Look
• Available in Different Colours

Cons

• Requires Multiple Coats
• More Expensive Per Litre Than Others

To learn more about Dulux easy care anti mould paint click here

Polycell Damp Seal – Our favourite Paint for Treating Damp Patches

A common source of mould is damp patches on walls. This Polycell damp seal paint is formulated to prevent the damp on walls from showing up. Once you’ve treated the cause of your damp, this anti-mould paint will help you to make sure the damp patches aren’t visible anymore.

This paint seals damp spots to prevent them from showing through. It also conveniently works in only one coat. That makes it simpler to apply than most of the others on this list of anti mould paints.

Reviews for this paint show most customers are satisfied with their results, it even works well on damp chimney breasts. This is a great paint to prevent mould and hide the damp patches that lead to mould in the first place. A lot of the best anti mould paints are more directed at condensation mould than damp patches, so this is a great alternative.

Pros

• Seals Damp Patches
• Only Needs 1 Coat
• Can be Painted Over

Cons

• Coverage Could Be Better

To learn more about Dulux easy care anti mould paint click here

Rempro Anti-Mould Paint Additive

This Rempro additive is something a bit different. Rather than being paint formulated to stop damp, this is an additive for existing paint. It contains anti-mould agents that you can add to any tin and have it function as an anti-mould paint.

This is a great option if you want to only paint a wall once, and preferably still be able to use the exact colour that you want.

Paint options are more limited when you’re looking for a damp proof paint, so this additive can make things a bit easier. Reviews show that this paint additive does work pretty well. It might not get the same results as some of the more specific anti-mould paints on this list, but it is great if you want to use a certain paint for your walls.

One thing to keep in mind with this is the smell. Most people report it to have quite an unpleasant spell! This will pass, but you might want to make sure you have a window open while painting!

Pros

• Can Be Added to Any Water Based Paint
• Even Works with Wallpaper Paste
• Stops Mould Growth
• Easy to Use

Cons

• Strong unpleasant smell

To learn more about Dulux easy care anti mould paint click here

Buying Guide – What Do You Need to Know About Anti Mould Paint?

Above we have listed some of the best anti mould paints on the market. Each offers something different, so there should be one to suit any problem.

As important as your choice of paint is, you should also consider the method that you use for applying it. Using anti-mould paint right can have great results. If not used properly, it won’t be as effective.

There is a lot of misinformation out there about anti-mould paints, mainly stemming from people using them incorrectly. So this is what you need to know about the best anti mould paints and how they work.

Does Anti-Mould Paint Really Work?

Anti mould paint does really work. It does more than just cover up the problem. Different paints use different methods, but most contain an agent that stops mould from growing. This effectively kills the mould before it starts to form on surfaces.

It is important to keep something else in mind though. You need to treat the source of damp that is causing your mould as well. The best anti mould paint can stop it from growing, but you need to address why it is growing in the first place. You need to fix the problem that is causing your damp to stop it from coming back, as well as treating your wall to stop the growth of mould.  

Should You Paint Over Mould?

Before applying your anti mould paint you should clean the wall and either remove the mould or allow it to dry. This will treat the wall and prepare it to be coated in the paint. Painting straight over the top of the mould itself won’t get as good results as cleaning the mould that is already there. This is especially the case if the mould is still damp and wet.

How Do I Stop Mould from Coming Through Paint?

You can stop mould from coming through your paint by using an anti-mould paint and addressing the cause of mould. Usually, the cause is going to be a form of damp. The first step is to diagnose what type of damp you have, this will help you to choose the correct damp proofing solution. Whether it is penetrating, rising, or condensation damp, the source needs to be fixed first. Otherwise, your protection against mould won’t work as well, because mould will still be forming.

After that, you need to treat the surfaces that had the mould to prevent it from coming back again. This is where your anti mould paint comes in. Each of these uses a different method or biocide to prevent the mould from growing. Whichever you use, removing the mould and then protecting your wall is the most effective way to stop mould from coming through the paint.

Damp proof paint is a deceptively simple cure to problems with damp or mould. This has a lot of people wondering how does damp-proof paint work, or if it even works at all. There is a lot of misinformation out there. However, it can work when you approach damp proof paint properly. It does a great job of treating some damp problems on external and internal walls. So how exactly does it do that?

Damp proof paint contains a water-reactive agent. Once applied to a surface, this stops moisture from soaking through into the wall. It forms a damp proof, protective barrier that will not allow water in, but still lets moisture evaporate and the wall breathe.

Doing this effectively is different depending on the wall’s material and how you’ve applied the paint. That’s why it’s important to do your research before you use damp proof paint. You need to know if it actually works for your type of damp.

Different Damp Paints and How They Work

Damp proof paint is a more general term you’ll often see on paint, but there are a few different types. Each can treat a different type of wall and contains a different water-reactive material. These are the main types and how they work:

Internal Damp Proof Paint

Internal damp proof paint is formulated to stand up to the moisture that will hit a wall from the inside. It is one of the simplest ways to damp proof internal walls. This damp proof paint will typically form an interior seal. This allows the walls to breathe and let out trapped moisture by evaporating. However, it stops the moisture built up on the wall from actually soaking in and becoming damp.

External Damp Proof Paint

External walls can be a bit trickier to damp proof, especially only using paint. They can be made from a lot of different materials, and hit by rain and snow. External damp proof paints have to stand up to this and dramatically different temperatures.

External damp proof paints are made from different materials depending on what they’re waterproofing. Masonry paint is applied to last a long time and work on brick. Whereas paint that works for wood or interiors needs to be more breathable. Get the right paint for the right surface, or it won’t be able to form a breathable seal. You should also make sure the surface you’re applying it to is clean. Debris or cracks can cause a hole in that damp proof seal that renders it less useful.

Does Damp Proof Paint Actually Work?

Despite what you might have seen, damp proof paint does actually work. However, it works in specific situations and when applied properly.

Damp proof paint will not work as a cheap ‘fix-all’ solution for every damp problem. It works great for treating damp that occurs from condensation but not from structural flaws. In these situations, damp proof paint can be applied to a wall once the damp has been removed. It will act as a waterproof layer, stopping moisture that forms on the walls from soaking in again. If applied properly, it will also allow moisture to evaporate. It is often most effective when used in tandem with damp proofing courses inside of the wall.

What is important for making sure that it actually works is to approach the problem from the right angle. Figure out what type of damp you have, and make sure that damp proof paint can actually fix that problem. Then, make sure you’re applying the right damp proof paint for the material and conditions of your wall.

When is Damp Proof Paint Not the Solution?

There are some situations when internal damp proof paint is not going to work. Internal paints do work, but they will not if the damp is being caused by a more serious issue, such as penetrating damp or rising damp. While helpful for preventing mould forming via condensation, these types of damp aren’t going to be stopped by paint.

On external walls, there are a few more caveats for damp proof paint working. The paint isn’t going to be able to make a proper seal over walls with a lot of holes or cracks. Equally, if you use paint designed for brick on a different surface then the paint will not allow water to evaporate out as well as it should. This will eventually cause your paint to fail.

Damp proof paint does work. However, you need to make sure you’re using it in the right situations.

Examples of Popular Internal Damp Proof Paints

Not all damp proof paints are created equal. Since a lot of people use it as a quick fix for any damp problem, there is a lot of paint out there that does little more than provide a quick fix. Essentially, some are just normal paint to cover up damp rather than waterproof the wall. These are some of the better options on the market, those that seem to actually work for most people:

• Thompson One Coat Damp Seal – This is for interior walls and acts as a primer that is a waterproof seal and the wall to breathe. It is relatively low cost and most customers are happy with the results. To learn more about Thompsons One Coat Damp Seal Click Here
• Ronseal One Coat Damp Seal – This can be used on walls, ceilings, and even applied to damp surfaces. This is a good choice if you have a lot of surfaces to treat. To learn more about Ronseal One Coat Damp Seal Click Here
• Johnstone’s Damp Proof Paint – This treats your wall and dries fast. While you can add a layer of matt or emulsion on top, this paint won’t look as bad without it. To learn more about Johnstone’s Damp Proof Paint Click Here

To read our full guide for internal damp proof paints Click Here.

Examples of Popular External Damp Proof Paints

Exterior damp proof paints need to be able to stand up to different temperatures and a bit more moisture from rain or even snow. It’s important to find the paint that is right for the material it’s for. These are some of the better options available at the moment:

• Polar Exterior Wall Guard Smooth Masonry Paint – This is an external damp proof paint that is resistant to weather and water. Reviews for this paint are very positive and it boosts a long-lifetime. To learn more about Polar Exterior Masonary Paint Click Here
• Dulux Weather Shield – This is a masonry paint for smooth walls which makes it great for the exterior side of a wall. This one needs two coats, but 30 minutes after application it will be rainproof. This can make it much easier to paint since you don’t have to wait for perfect weather. To learn more about Dulux Weathr Shield Click Here
• Black Jack Bitumen Paint – This paint, or bitumen paint in general, is great for outside use. It provides a waterproof protective coat that is formulated to stand up to heavy rain and prolonged oxidation. This one works great on metal, wood, roof felt and even concrete, but isn’t great for brick walls on a house. To learn more about Black Jack Bitumen Paint Click Here

Conclusion

If damp proof paint actually works is a common question. The paint can definitely work as intended. Damp proof paint works by forming a waterproof membrane on your wall, keeping moisture out and allowing evaporation. Like most things this comes with a condition though, you’ve got to use it properly.

Damp proof paint might not be the easy fix it looks like, but in the right situation, it works well. Make sure you treat and clean the surface first. Then, apply the right paint for your surface. if done correctly, your damp proof paint should offer a decent layer of protection against damp.

In this article we will be looking at damp proof paint and answering the question, “does damp proof paint work?” Firstly, we will be looking at internal damp proof paint. This will be followed with a section on external damp proof paint.

Damp proof paint works because it contains a water-reactive agent. This takes care of residual surface moisture. As a result, the likelihood of damp occurring decreases.

It also contains a range of polymers. This means that damp proof paint is longer-lasting than conventional paint. For these reasons, many people turn to damp proof paint as a solution. After experiencing problems with damp in the home it seems a natural course of action. Damp proof paint is seen to be a good preventative measure to guard against the return of damp.

Yet, if you look online at reviews and forums, you’ll find a mixed bag of comments. Some people say it works well while others suggest that damp proof paint doesn’t work at all. So, does damp proof paint work? Damp proof paint is effective against surface moisture. But damp proof paint won’t help in all situations. For example, if it is a structural fault allowing water to penetrate the surface of a wall. It doesn’t stop all types of damp from occurring. It also needs to be applied correctly for it to be most effective.

How internal damp proof paint works

It’s the water-reactive agent in internal damp proof paint that makes it work. The paint makes sure that moisture doesn’t appear on the surface of the wall. It is not a treatment, in itself, for damp though. It works as a preventative measure that protects against damp re-emerging. You will need to fix any underlying issues that are causing the damp prior to applying a damp proof paint.

After the damp problem is treated, the next logical step is to apply damp proof paint to the wall. It covers up any damage that may have been visible. It also gives you that extra peace of mind and level of protection.

Damp proof paint has its water-reactive agent fighting the fight against damp resurfacing. Not only that, damp proof paint is also easy to maintain. It can be wiped down and reapplied at any time, once the original first coat is dry. This means you should years of service from the damp proof paint. You can rest assured that damp proof paint looks good. It compares with standard emulsions and matts.

When to use internal damp proof paint

Internal damp proof paint is suitable for many situations. But you must appreciate, it is a protective measure, it will not always treat the cause of the damp. It is vital that you deal with the cause of the damp problem. Damp proof paint is applied to a wall, afterwards.

If the house has had an issue with rising damp, a new DPC, or chemical DPC injection could treat the damp and fix the issue. Alternatively, if you have damp patches caused by penetrating damp. You will need to fix the defect allowing water to penetrate first.

Once the problem causing the damp is fixed you can apply the damp proof paint afterwards. This gives you a handy extra level of protection against the damp resurfacing.

Internal damp proof paint is great for adding a layer of protection. It is also a great way of covering up stains. These can be left after treating and removing black mould or damp patches. It’s important to note that damp proof paint only works against surface moisture. So, as we mentioned previously, if the damp on the walls is caused by structural defects, damp proof paint will not work on its own.

This is where the confusion comes from about the question of whether damp proof paint works or not. For example, you may have used damp proof paint as a way of dealing with excess moisture in your home. Further down the line, a property could suffer another type of damp. For instance, penetrating damp caused by structural defects. To all intents and purposes, it may look like the damp proof paint hasn’t worked. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. You’ve had the misfortune to experience a different type of damp in the home. This is one that damp proof paint is powerless to prevent.

Avoiding poor application

It’s, vital that you apply damp proof paint correctly. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The surface you apply the paint to needs cleaning. It needs to be free from dirt and have any previous or existing coats of paints removed. You need a clean and bare surface. The water-reactive agent contained in damp proof paint will not be effective otherwise.

How external damp proof paint works

External damp proof paint works in a very similar way to internal damp proof paint. In that, it offers an extra level of protection. Applying a coat of damp proof paint to the external walls of a property can be an excellent preventative measure.

When to use external damp proof paint

External damp proof paint is a protective measure. Just like internal damp proof paint it will not perform miracles. For example, if a property is affected by penetrating damp, from poorly sealed windows and doors or damaged brickwork. External damp proof paint may not be effective on its own, to stop the problems you are seeing internally.

To get the best results from external damp proof paint, you need to treat the actual cause of the damp in a property. Before applying a coat of exterior damp proof paint, you will need to make sure you have fixed any other defects. These could be allowing damp to penetrate and may not be fixed by painting over.

Also, the surface you are painting needs to be clean of dirt and debris before painting. This will ensure the paint adheres well to the surface and provides the best finish.

All in all, damp proof paint on exterior walls is an excellent idea. External damp proof paint will provide years of waterproofing protection for your property.

Conclusion

Both internal and external damp proof paints do exactly what they say on the tin. They provide a useful layer of protection. A coat of damp proof paint reduces the risk of damp resurfacing. However, it comes with one, very important caveat. Damp proof paint is not a treatment that will fix every possible damp problem. In most instances, it is a prevention, not the cure.

Damp proof paint should be the icing on the cake. Deal with and treat whatever is causing the damp first and then damp proof paint can add additional protection.

Essentially you should only apply a coat of damp proof paint, after the main damp issue has been treated. Make sure the surface is clean and that you follow all product instructions to the letter.

In conclusion damp proof paint can work very well if used correctly. It provides a cost-effective extra level of protection against damp.

Painting the exterior walls of your home can have several benefits. Firstly, it is a great way to freshen up its appearance. It even has the potential to add value to your home. But more importantly, painting an outside wall will offer a level of protection against the elements.

An important thing to remember, is painting an exterior wall will require a degree of planning and preparation. If you get this right, it will ensure good results and a wall that benefits from long-lasting protection.

But what do you do if the outside wall is damp? Can you paint a damp exterior wall? You should not paint a damp exterior wall until you have resolved any issues and allowed the wall to dry. You may also need to treat the wall to prepare it for painting. How you treat it will depend on the condition the wall is currently in.

In this article, we will set out the three steps you need to take before you can paint a damp exterior wall:

1) Establish what is causing the damp

2) Treat the cause of the damp

3) Drying and preparing the wall’s surface for painting.

Preparation is key when painting any wall

Giving the exterior walls of your property a ‘fresh lick of paint’, can be an inexpensive way to improve its appearance. It also provides an effective barrier from outside elements. Also, for many people painting an exterior wall can be a relatively easy DIY project. But, do not forget, preparation is important. You will need to properly prepare the surface before you paint, to get the best results.

This is especially true if you have damp on an outside wall. It is very important that you resolve this type of issue before you start to paint.

How to treat damp exterior walls before painting

To treat the problem correctly, you will need to understand what you are dealing with. In some cases, you may need the help of a professional, but often the cause is obvious.

Fixing the cause of the damp is essential before you paint your wall. If you don’t deal with the problem, it could return after the wall has been painted. You also need to allow the wall to dry out.

In most cases an exterior wall will just be wet from rain. But, if the wall has visible damp patches, or other issues such as water running on to it, this will need fixing. After you fix any issues, you must allow time for the wall to dry out thoroughly.

If your property is rendered, damage to the render can also be a serious issue. If neglected, it can cause serious problems – such as penetrating damp. Signs of trouble are cracks or bulges to the render. This can expose bare patches to damp. Fix and seal even small hairline cracks as soon as you notice them. Otherwise, water can penetrate and cause further damage.

Prepping exterior walls before painting

Once you have treated the cause of damp, you can move onto then next step. This is preparing the exterior wall before painting.

Firstly, you need to determine if ladders or scaffolding are needed? Assess the risk involved and also consider your own confidence level. If you do need scaffolding, you should hire a qualified builder or scaffolding contractor to erect and secure any scaffolding. You can find the rules for scaffolding here.

If the outside wall is old, it’s likely there is damage to the pointing. In this scenario, the old mortar will need removing and repointing. Any cracks or other problems should also be repaired.

You should always paint on a clean wall. Remove any moss or algae beforehand. A soft brush and a small hobby knife are perfect for the job. Once removed, treat the wall with water & bleach (50/50 diluted). Next, rinse the wall and allow to dry. This should not take long, but it will depend on the weather

Another option is to use a pressure washer on the wall. This is an effective way of removing dirt, debris, and loose paint from the surface. After use, you will need to leave the wall to completely dry out.

Dealing with plant roots and powdery deposits

If you find plant roots are visible behind render or in the pointing, scrape the roots off with a scraper. Scrub any signs of root fragments and tendrils from the surface using a nylon scrub brush. For anything that remains, prepare a mild detergent solution. Mix 1 gallon of water with 1 tablespoon of liquid detergent and apply to the surface. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

Walls that have been painted previously, are often affected by powdery deposits. This means that you will need to fix the surface with a primer before applying a new coat of paint. If you skip this step, you run the risk that newly applied paint will become loose and start to flake off.

The best choice of paint for exterior walls is usually an acrylic masonry paint. This gives the surface waterproof protection. Not only that, it enables moisture in the wall to evaporate to the outside. You can read more about exterior paints here

Benefits of painting an exterior wall

The main benefit of painting an exterior wall, is it provides a layer of waterproof protection. This will stop water from getting into your home and causing internal damp problems. It effectively adds an extra waterproof barrier around your property.

The three common types of internal damp are condensation, penetrating damp and rising damp. Penetrating damp is the main issue that can be caused by external problems. Defects on an exterior wall can lead to issues inside. So, repairing and painting an exterior wall is a great way to guard against internal damp issues later.

Key takeaways: Painting a damp exterior wall

The key takeaway about painting a damp exterior wall, is to have patience. Having established what is causing the damp, you need to treat it correctly.

Finally, the wall needs to be dried out and prepared. These steps can be frustrating and time-consuming. However, if you want to enjoy the best results, it’s well worth the effort. With this type of job, 80% of the time will be spent on preparation. If you bear this in mind, you are more likely to achieve a high quality finished job.