How to Paint Over Efflorescence

All surfaces must be clean and free from anything that will interfere with the adhesion of the materials to be applied. Remove loose material by scraping or brushing with a stiff bristle brush to a sound edge. Remove any efflorescence with a suitable efflorescence remover / brick cleaner in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. For areas with sound paint, clean down with Zinsser Universal Degreaser and Cleaner to remove any contaminants. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residues. Allow to dry.

Remove all visible signs of interior organic growth and treat the areas with Zinsser Mould Killer and Remover in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Treat exterior mould with a proprietary mould killer and remover in accordance with manufacturers instructions. Allow to dry.

Fill any cracks and surface defects with a quality hydraulic cement as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow to dry. Rub down with a fine grade abrasive paper. Remove all dust.

Liberally apply the first coat of Zinsser WaterTite® by painting a square metre at a time using the brush to work the WaterTite® into the pores of the masonry. Apply as much paint as necessary to produce a continuous, pinhole free film. Allow to dry for a minimum of 4 hours before overcoating.

Decorate with one full coat of WaterTite® and apply by roller in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Note: walls can be damp, but must be free of any active leaks. Stir product thoroughly before and during application. Do not thin. Substrates should have a textured profile prior to application of WaterTite®. Smooth surfaces may need to be abraded or blasted to create a surface profile. For use on bare masonry.