When painting on to timber, you may wonder whether Masonry Paint is a suitable option, especially when considering how Masonry Paint is a much more accessible paint when compared to other exterior paints. The short answer is yes, but its usage largely depends on the specific application method, as well as the type of wood you’re working with. This paints versatility is one of the main reasons as to why the many people consider Masonry Paint popular choice for various projects, not just brick.
Essential Preparation Steps for Painting on Wood:
Regardless of the type of paint you use, proper preparation of the timber is essential for the best results. Ensure the timber is dry, ideally with a moisture content of less than 18%. Remove all loose debris, rot, and dead timber to provide a clean surface for painting. Priming the wood and treating any knots with knotting or suitable sealers will ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish. Furthermore, as when preparing to work with an external based paint, you must always consider weather conditions before planning any painting project.
Although it may seem obvious to not paint outside during a wet day, it is also as important to not paint on days of scorching hot sun, especially if this sun also comes with wind. Painting during these weather conditions will make your Masonry Paint dry too quickly, which means that when painting onto your wooden surface, the paint will not soak in and grip your timber surface, which will eventually leads to the surface becoming susceptible to water damage and could wash off overtime.
Unsuitable Applications for Masonry Paint:
While Masonry Paint can be used on wooden surfaces, there are several areas you may consider where this paint is suitable and other options would be preferred. For instance, interior trim and high-traffic areas are not ideal for Masonry Paint as it does not dry to a hard finish. This makes it less suitable for areas frequently touched or bumped, such as interior trim, doors, and window frames. The soft, flat finish of Masonry Paint marks easily, which can be problematic in high-traffic areas. Additionally, certain hardwoods like teak, walnut, oak, rosewood, and mahogany are not recommended for use with Masonry Paint. These woods often require specific types of coatings to enhance their natural beauty and provide effective protection.
Furthermore, decking and floor areas are unsuitable for Masonry Paint due to its soft finish. The paint will wear away quickly and mark easily. While it may suffice for short-term applications, it does not offer longevity or durability in high-traffic or outdoor floor areas.
Ideal Uses for Masonry Paint on Timber:
However, Masonry Paint can be beneficial for certain timber applications. For example, it’s a practical choice for painting sheds and fences. These structures often benefit from the protective qualities of masonry paint, even though it won’t provide a hard finish. External timber furniture such as tables, chairs, and benches can also be painted with masonry paint. It’s important to note that masonry paint is not recommended for internal furniture, as the soft finish marks easily. Masonry paint works well on planed softwoods, providing adequate coverage and protection for outdoor applications.
For timber substrates, HydroPro Garden Paint is often a better alternative to masonry paint. This paint offers several benefits, including water resistance due to its wax content, which prevents water ingress and makes it more suitable for protecting wood from moisture. It also ensures better adhesion by penetrating the wood, providing a more durable finish. Additionally, HydroPro Garden Paint is eco-friendly, not harmful to animals and plants during application, making it a safer choice for garden furniture and structures. Specifically formulated for rough sawn timber, it offers superior coverage and adhesion compared to masonry paint.
Similarly to wooden fences, Masonry Paint can also be used in substitute to Garden Paint for your wooden shed. Due to Masonry paints exterior advantages, many Masonry Paints will protect your shed from many types of weather damage. As with any wooden surface, you must make sure that you prepare your fence and shed before applying your paint. By simply applying your paint without any preparation, it is extremely likely that your wooden surface will become susceptible to patches or peels, which can be avoided with the correct application methods.
For this reason, once your wood is prepared, clean and dry, you can begin your painting project using your Masonry Paint.
On the whole, by following these guidelines, you can achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish on your timber projects. For further advice, especially on painting floor areas, consider contacting a technical department or applying for a specialized guide to painting floors.
Lastly, if you would like more information on the specifications of a typical Masonry Paint, please see our Masonry Paint Product Information Sheet. If you are interested in using Masonry Paint for your garden project, we would recommend looking at our new formulation for masonry paint, HydroPro Masonry Paint:
