Masonry Paint and Dampness.

Masonry Paint and Dampness

It is common for our surveyors to find dampness concerns related to masonry paint, this is found on many properties and is a common defect.

Throughout the years, masonry paint was used particularly throughout London and York, older buildings in other parts of the UK are noted for masonry paint, and rows of Edwardian townhouses in the UK. In some cases, when masonry paint is applied to timber-framed buildings, this may not be an issue at first, but if the masonry gets wet, dampness can start to affect the building, causing the paint to blister and the masonry to perish, decay and components will eventually fail. We can help you if you have noticed masonry paint has been used on a property you are considering purchasing during our inspection we will look to see if the masonry paint is causing problems to the building. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need assistance identifying any issues. During the inspection, we will look for issues that may be caused by masonry paint, such as dampness.

Is it Masonry Paint

There is no guarantee that any surveyor can identify the type of paint that has been applied to a building, but mineral paint has the advantage of allowing the masonry to breathe. Paints that are impervious to moisture, including microporous coatings, may cause damp problems in the future. Therefore, if impervious paint has been applied to the property, removing it and repainting the property with mineral-based paint is the best solution.

Stucco or stone dressings and window sills can also be painted with masonry paint, as well as brickwork directly. Unfortunately, it can also cause problems when used on these surfaces. To quantify the cost of any necessary remedial work, a surveyor may recommend further investigation or seek advice from a specialist in external rendering or external decoration. There is also the possibility of problems with the render itself, depending on the type of material used, and it may be necessary to remove the render in order to apply an appropriate finish.

Painting Exterior Walls of Properties

The task of painting a wall or surface outside is always challenging due to many factors.

The right coating and paint will not only provide a professional finish but will also protect the building’s structure. It’s worth your time to consider which paint is the best to use to avoid future problems.
In any case, let’s look at some of the most common problems with masonry paint;

  • Walls with cracks in the paint finish can and will trap moisture
  • The paint on brickwork and masonry causes internal dampness which can lead to expensive repairs.
  • Rendering problems are increased.
  • Patches of mould and dampness can become visible

Please contact our surveyors if you have any of these concerns when buying a home. When it comes to detecting and identifying masonry paint problems, our experts are able to pinpoint the problems for you and provide you with the best advice and guidance as to what you should do next.

Aesthetics of Masonry Walls – Peeling

The Great British weather can cause masonry paint to crack, flake, and peel, especially on exterior walls. A split or hairline crack in the masonry paint indicates that you have probably purchased poor-quality paint or that a primer was not applied before painting. In light of the fact that exterior walls will be exposed to very cold and wet weather, preparation is vital. We may recommend completely removing peeling paint and reapplying a breathable type of paint if we notice walls where the paint is peeling.

For masonry paint to work properly, the wall must be properly prepared before it can be applied, otherwise, it will be necessary to repaint the entire surface in order to prevent any future issues from occurring.

Mouldy Walls

Your masonry paint could be the cause of mould forming on your home’s interior walls if you have a damp problem. Choosing the correct breathable paint will prevent brickwork from deterioration and last for many years. The wall will often begin to deteriorate when painted with synthetic, non-breathable paints. The damp problem must be treated and mould removed internally before preparing and repainting the wall externally.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our surveyors and team if you need assistance or advice before purchasing a property.

Residential Valuations across Tyne and Wear

As RICS-registered valuers, we provide accurate, independent and professionally prepared building valuations across Tyne and Wear. Our valuations are carried out in accordance with current RICS standards and are suitable for a wide range of formal and statutory purposes, including:

  • Help to Buy and Shared Ownership
  • Probate and Inheritance Tax matters
  • Matrimonial or Divorce proceedings
  • Insurance Reinstatement Costings and assessments
  • Re-mortgaging and Independent Valuations
  • Independent Asset Valuations

All valuations are carried out to RICS standards, ensuring professionalism, accuracy, and reliability.

Why Choose Andrew James Property Surveyors in Tyne and Wear?

  • RICS-Accredited Expertise: Our reports and property valuations meet the highest professional standards.
  • Regional Knowledge: Based in the North East, our surveyors have extensive experience across Tyne and Wear’s varied residential property market, from period homes to modern developments.
  • Personal Service: Our surveyors maintain a small case load, so every client receives prompt attention and detailed care.
  • Post-Report Review Call: Every client benefits from a personal follow-up call with the surveyor to discuss findings and next steps.
  • Clear and Understandable Reports: No jargon – just transparent insights you can act on.
  • Impartial Advice: We work solely for you, our client.

Whether you are purchasing your first home, expanding your Tyne and Wear property portfolio, or preparing a property for sale, we provide the clarity and reassurance needed to make informed decisions.

What Our Clients Say

“We chose Andrew James Property Surveyors based on their excellent reputation. In a very short timeframe after contacting them, they scheduled a Homebuyers Survey (Level 2) for a price we considered to be very reasonable. Within 5 days of completing the survey, they sent a detailed report that was easy to understand and clearly outlined the areas to focus on for us and our solicitors. I couldn’t have asked for a better service. Andrew James Property Surveyors is definitely a company I would recommend.”
— Mr Alan B

“Exceptional service. We booked to have a Level 3 survey and valuation done on a property we were hoping to purchase. Both the survey and valuation were very thorough and I felt like no stone was left unturned. Andy was amazing, calling the same day the reports were issued to help understand the conclusions, plus we knew we could call if we had any further queries. We felt like we were in very safe hands and that we’d really been looked after. What a great team! Will definitely use them again.”
— Jane Paterson

Read More Testimonials Here

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a building survey?
Yes – even newer homes can hide issues that aren’t visible during a viewing. A professional survey gives you peace of mind and leverage in negotiations.

Which survey level should I choose?
For modern properties in good condition, a Level 2 Home Buyers Report is often sufficient. For older homes, listed buildings, or properties with extensions, a Level 3 Building Survey is recommended. We’re happy to advise on the best option.

Are your valuations accepted by lenders and official bodies?
Absolutely. As a RICS-accredited practice, all our valuations meet the required professional standards and can be used for official purposes.

How quickly will I receive my report?
We aim to deliver reports within five working days of inspection – and we’ll call you personally to explain the findings.

Pricing and Quotes
Every property is unique, so we provide tailored quotes based on the type, age, and location of the building. You’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive price before we begin, with no hidden fees. For an accurate quote, simply contact us using the details below.

 

Get a Quote Today

Find peace of mind with a professional building survey or valuation in Tyne and Wear.

Our qualified RICS surveyors are ready to help you make an informed decision about your next property purchase.

Call:  03301 749 745

Email:  admin@andrewjamessurveyors.co.uk or info@andrewjamessurveyors.co.uk

Or fill in our Get a Quote form and we’ll respond promptly.