Keeping the elements out
Super hydrophobic vs water-resistant
Not all exterior paint works in the same way. Many standard masonry paints are only water-resistant, meaning they are only designed to reduce the absorption of moisture. As a result, rain can stick absorb into the surface.
Emperor Masonry Paint is different, using super hydrophobic technology to repel rain before it can absorb into your home.
What is a water-resistant masonry paint?
Most standard masonry paints are described as water-resistant, meaning they can reduce the absorption rain and provide a protective barrier against normal weather exposure.
However, water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Over time, persistent rain, standing water, driving wind or prolonged exposure to moisture can still allow water to soak into the surface. As moisture enters exterior walls, it can become trapped, particularly in areas with frequent rainfall and colder weather.
When exterior walls stay wet for extended periods, this prolonged dampness can eventually lead to issues such as peeling or flaking paint, reduced performance and moisture-related damage. In the long run, this can result in increased maintenance requirements, more expensive repairs and the need to repaint far sooner than expected.
What makes Emperor Paint super hydrophobic?
Emperor Masonry Paint is super hydrophobic through the advanced nano-technology used within our masonry paint. Under a microscope, the surface is made up of millions of microscopic pyramid-like structures that are invisible to the naked eye.
Because the contact area between water and these pyramid-like structures is so small, rainwater cannot grip the surface. So, instead of soaking in to the walls, water just beads and rolls off the wall.
What happens when walls stay wet?
Exterior walls are constantly exposed to rain, moisture and changing weather conditions. While many standard water-resistant paints are designed to help slow water penetration, they still allow moisture to soak into the surface.
When water penetrates the masonry, walls can stay damp for long periods of time. Over time, this excess moisture can lead to a range of problems. Damp walls are more likely to develop organic growth, staining and eventually failing paint.
Wet walls can even affect a home’s thermal performance, as damp masonry loses heat faster than dry masonry.
Masonry paint designed to withstand British weather
Homes in the UK can face constant exposure to rain, damp conditions and changing weather throughout the year. This will eventually put pressure on exterior walls, especially when moisture is absorbed into the surface.
That’s why Emperor Masonry Paint is designed to do more than your standard masonry paint. Combining both our advanced super hydrophobic technology and its high breathability, water vapour can escape freely while preventing water from soaking into the surface. This means walls stay dry, clean and protected from the British weather all year round.
Personal advice, made simple
Stop water getting into your wallsNot sure how to stop rain from getting into your walls? Take our quick quiz and we’ll recommend the right Emperor products for your home.
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Explore more
What is A Super Hydrophobic Paint?
Discover how Emperor Paint's super hydrophobic technology is revolutionising what is possible with an exterior paint.
How super hydrophobic technology works
Find out how Emperor's super hydrophobic technology makes water bead up and roll off instead of soaking into the surface.
The benefits of super hydrophobic
Discover the benefits of super hydrophobic technology and how it helps protect your home from the damaging effects of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a surface super hydrophobic?
A super hydrophobic surface causes water to completely repel from the surface, leaving it to create a perfectly spherical bead of water. To be classed as super hydrophobic, the contact angle of the bead of water must be higher than 160° or in other words, the bead of water must be circular. If you drop water on to a non-super hydrophobic surface such as a bare brick or a wall painted with standard masonry paint, the bead of water will not repel and will begin to soak into the surface.
Is Emperor Masonry Paint worth it?
Yes, if you want to help protect your home from damp-related issues and repainting sooner, many homeowners feel a premium masonry paint is worth the investment.
Emperor Masonry Paint is designed to combine super hydrophobic technology, high breathability and long-term durability, helping reduce water absorption while still allowing water vapour to escape.
While it costs more upfront than other masonry paints, many choose it for the reduced maintenance and longer-term protection.
Do Emperor Paint products seal?
Emperor Paint products are highly breathable, ensuring that while moisture cannot enter the surface due to our super hydrophobic technology, moisture from inside the surface can naturally breathe out in order to keep your home dry.
Can wet exterior walls cause heat loss?
Yes. Wet exterior walls can lose heat faster than dry walls because moisture reduces the insulating performance of masonry. When walls absorb rainwater and stay damp, heat can transfer through them more easily, which may make your home feel colder and potentially less energy efficient.
What masonry paint is best for the British weather?
The best masonry paint for the British weather is one that can handle heavy rain, damp conditions, changing temperatures and long-term exposure. Look for a masonry paint that is highly breathable, water-repellent and durable, as UK homes are regularly exposed to wet and unpredictable conditions.
Silicone-based masonry paint, such as Emperor Masonry Paint, is often considered one of the better options for British homes because it’s super hydrophobic technology is designed to repel rainwater while still allowing walls to breathe naturally. This can help reduce problems linked to excess moisture, such as damp, peeling paint, staining and organic growth, especially on exposed or older properties.
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