As decorators, we all know the trials and tribulations associated with external painting.
Some of us do it and some avoid it like the Plague…..
The reason behind this?
The good old British Weather!
I`m sure the song “Four Seasons in one Day” was written specifically about British Summertime.
Only this morning I woke to find myself basking in 24-degree full sunshine before going online and reading about the tube stations in London being closed due to flooding!
There seems to be a huge divide from North to South. So much so that around 15 years ago, I decided to make the change to Pliolite based Masonry Paint.
So, what is Pliolite and what are the benefits?
Unlike standard water-based masonry paints, Pliolite contains a form of synthetic rubber resin. This dries rapidly, which makes the product ideal for using in damp/cold (to -10) climates or where rain is never far away (anywhere in Scotland then).
It is solvent based and has fantastic adhesion properties, so does not need a stabilising solution of seperate primer prior to painting. Contrary to popular belief, Pliolite is also breathable, despite being waterproof, so doesn’t damage the substrate by trapping moisture or sealing the brickwork.
It is tintable into almost any colour and most are guaranteed for 15 years.
It can be used much later in the year than water-based products due to its rapid drying capabilities and ability to withstand lower temperatures.
The Downside of Pliolite!
EVERYTHING needs covered up! You do not want to get Pliolite on anything other than the masonry you are painting, otherwise it is an absolute g!t to get off. Trust me, I have had to use white spirit as a pre-shower treatment on a number of occasions. Oh, and don’t spill pliolite-based masonry paint… Clean-up is impossible.
It isn`t sprayable so painting pebbledash is labour intensive and hard going, it needs well worked in to get into all the nooks and crannies which tends to make the roller clog up with chips. The only way to get these out is to spin the roller and that covers your dust sheets in coloured pebbles!
16-24 hrs before its cured enough for a 2nd coat, much like an oil-based paint.
Brushes, rollers, dust sheets, overalls, scuttles, whatever you use on the job all go straight in the bin once the job is done. There`s NO saving any of them so you have to cover the costs in your estimate. There`s also the environmental impact of everything being disposed off.
If you’re interested in finding a good quality pliolite masonry paint, you may want to check out the review I wrote on Sandtex 365, which you can pick up at any Crown Decorating Centre, but unless you qualify for a trade discount, it will almost certainly be cheaper to buy this product online. Click here to see online prices.
FAQs
What is the technology of pliolite?
Pliolite is a synthetic rubber resin that is dissolved in solvent and used in paint. It isn’t like other solvent-based paints because it dries relatively quickly.
Can I paint my shed with masonry paint?
I probably wouldn’t! masonry paint will adhere to the wood without issue, but you might have problems with tannins bleeding through over time. Pliolite-based masonry paint may last a bit longer. But why not go for a multi-surface paint like Sadolin Superdec?
Can I use masonry paint on concrete fence posts?
Masonry paint looks fantastic on concrete fence posts. It looks sharp, especially when you use white.
How long does it take for pliolite paint to dry?
Most pliolite paint is showerproof after half an hour, touch dry after two hours, and recoat after 16 hours. Each brand might be slightly different, and weather conditions play a part.
Final Thoughts
Using pliolite-based masonry paint is like a safety net against sudden showers. Plus, you can use it in cold conditions, where water-based just wouldn’t cut it. Pliolite also feels more substantial (if that makes sense). Like you’re using a “heavy-duty” masonry paint, which gives me great confidence about its longevity.
It may not be as good for the environment and clean-up can be a pain, but my decorating work is always bang on.
In September 2014 I had the most exposed part of my house painted with Glidden Pliolite Mason paint.
The rain just runs to the bottom still.
I need to paint the whole outside of the house, so I am wondering if the ordinary outdoor paint will stick to the portion painted with the pliolite.
Apart from the normal water wash, is there any other precaution I should be taking to ensure adhesion?
Location: Mid West Ireland
Regards,
providing you use trade masonry paint and the walls are clean, adhesion will not be an issue.
My house is right on the coast in North Wales and gets the full force of the winter storms. Sometimes it feels like the house is being driven through a car wash when there’s a Force 10 blowing and the sea spray is hitting us! I use Pliolite and wouldn’t even think of using anything else. Some of my neighbours still use water based Masonary paint and they generally have to re paint twice as often. Pliolite is tough stuff. I agree that it wrecks your brushes and is difficult to get off anything it touches including your hands, but nothing protects your house better. Take it from me.