How to treat damp masonry?

HamishN

Hi Team,

A couple of months ago where we had a lot of rain I had leaks in my roof.

A builder came through an said that the masonry was damp and that it was likely wet from all the rain.

I was wondering what masonry waterproof product would be the best for exposed brickwork?

Regards,

Hamish 

MitchellMc

Hi @HamishN,

The fact that the masonry is damp isn’t necessarily a major concern on its own. Masonry on the exterior of a home will almost always become damp during periods of heavy rain, and some of that moisture can transfer through the wall and slightly darken internal linings or finishes. However, if you’ve had a visible leak inside, that suggests there’s likely a specific path where water is making its way from the outside to the interior. For example, through a gap, crack, flashing fault, or a point where water is pooling and tracking inward.

Before applying any waterproofing product, I’d strongly recommend having the area properly assessed by a leak detection specialist to identify where the water is entering. Fixing that source first is essential, because surface coatings won’t stop water that’s actively finding a way inside.

Once you’re confident the cause has been addressed, you can consider applying a waterproofing treatment to the brickwork, such as Crommelin 1L Natural Finish Penetrating Sealer and Water Repellent. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell