paint exterior brick below DPC (2024)

FAQs

Can you paint bricks below DPC? ›

Generally, the painting of any surface that is damp is likely to fail. If it stays perfectly dry then you could use any good quality masonry paint system. On the assumption that this brickwork is slightly damp then your best chance of success would be to use an epoxy pool paint.

A brick classed as “F2 S2” is suitable for use below damp proof course (DPC) level going into the ground.

PermaSEAL damp proof paint is a multi-purpose high performance product. It can fulfil a range of purposes, including: A general interior damp proof paint for multiple surfaces including render, plaster, brickwork. Suitable for both walls and ceilings.

Permaseal Damp Proof Paint

The damp proof paint can be applied simply by using a brush, roller or spray and can dry within one hour of the application. The paint dries to a semi-gloss finish and can be painted over with ordinary emulsion paints.

It depends on the paint and the water absorption quality of the bricks, but speaking generally it is probably best not to. The paint can trap the moisture in the brick and in turn lead to more problems such as increased risk of frost damage. Let it breath!

DPCs should:

at ground level, generally be a minimum of 150mm above finished ground or paving level.

But if you were using bricks under the dpc level you would usually lay an engineering brick because they are stronger and non pourus,so are suitable for underground use,or you can use a concrete block until you reach ground level and then lay a normal brick upto dpc."

Dense Common Bricks are designed to be used for all types of construction above and below dpc level. Can be used independently or in conjunction with dense aggregate blocks.

A clear cavity of at least 225mm below the DPC should be maintained. When specialised foundations are used, including those for timber framed buildings, this depth may be reduced to 150mm below the DPC where weepholes are provided and other necessary measures are taken to ensure that the cavity can drain freely.

If You Do Decide To Paint Over Damp

However, as we've just said, moisture can still build up behind the paint and continue to cause damage. So, while waterproof paint may be a good short term fix, it's always best to stop the damp itself so as not to deal with problems later on.

Does painting brick trap moisture? ›

If you paint over damp brick with no air flow, you trap any remaining moisture and the paint will bubble and chip. The good news is there are paints and lime washes designed just for masonry and have breathability characteristics. One phenomenal exterior masonry product is called ROMABIO.

"You want a primer that will 'bite' into the brick; the better it can wrap around those pores and get into all the nooks and crannies, the better the paint will adhere," says Villar. Primers made for brick and masonry are your best bet, like Kilz 2 All-Purpose Interior and Exterior Primer.

Damp Proof Membrane Paint

If so, look no further than the Kingfisher Damp Proof Paint. This amazing damp proof membrane paint is a little-known trade secret. It can be applied to concrete, brick, renders and more. Our damp course paint can help to protect against water ingress by forming a damp guard liquid membrane.

We advise that you use a vapour permeable, water based micro porous emulsion. It is important that permanent decoration – especially wall papering – should not be applied for at least 12 months, or until such times as all residual moisture has dried out of the walls.

The truth is that people cite the application of non-breathable paints to brickwork that causes moisture to become trapped underneath the paint film, which will damage brickwork. This is correct, as non-breathable masonry paints or brick sealers should never be applied to bricks.

Can you paint over damp walls? No. Even if you use waterproof emulsions, damp will eventually seep through and restain your walls, so it's a waste of time and money. You need to treat the cause of the damp and eradicate it before applying any new coats of paint.

The Building Regulations require at least 150mm between the dpc and the ground or any paving. This is what is known as 'Best Practice'.

Air bricks may be located either above or below DPC level and where possible on all sides of the building. Ideally air bricks should be located at least 75 mm above hard and soft landscaped areas to reduce the risk of being obstructed or flooded (see diagram 1).