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Hi there
has anyone had experience paiting a stone wall like ours? We would like to do surfmist and wonder if we could do some sort of sponge paint wash?
any advice is appreciated
Hi @emmawigg,
Painting masonry retaining walls is definitely possible, but there are some important factors to be aware of before you start, especially if you’re aiming for a light colour like Surfmist.
One of the main issues is moisture coming through the wall from the soil behind it. Retaining walls often get damp from rain or groundwater, and that moisture can push through the stone or masonry, which can cause paint to blister, peel or discolour over time. Lighter colours are particularly prone to showing this staining, so they often don’t hold up as well unless the wall has been properly waterproofed from the rear. Darker colours generally perform better because any staining or damp marks are less visible.
Regarding a sponge paint wash, this is a technique that typically involves thinning paint with water to create a translucent finish. Standard exterior masonry paints aren’t really designed to be thinned like that, so the paint may not adhere properly or could break down quickly. If you really want a wash effect, you would need a specialised masonry paint formulated for that kind of finish.
In short, while you can paint a retaining wall, it’s important to manage expectations with a light colour and to consider moisture issues. A solid paint coat is possible, but to reduce the risk of staining or discolouration, the wall should ideally be waterproofed from behind, and using a more forgiving colour may save headaches down the track.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
