Waterproof paint for brick walls protects against moisture, prevents efflorescence, and preserves masonry aesthetics. This guide compares five top choices to help homeowners and DIYers pick the right option for interior or exterior brick surfaces. Best for basements and exposed exterior walls, these selections address moisture barriers, adhesion, and durability across various climate conditions.
Choosing at a glance
- KILZ Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint — Strong water barrier for concrete, brick, and masonry; best for below-grade walls and spaces with high moisture.
- Hensire White Exterior Wall Paint — Versatile outdoor brick and concrete paint with durable finish and color choices; best for curb appeal and exterior brick facades.
- GLAINTE Brick Transformation Paint — Direct-application brick paint with water resistance and optional custom finishes; best for DIY texture and pattern projects.
- Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint — Classic whitewash look with dilution guidance; best for light, decorative brick updates.
- Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew-Proof Interior Paint — Interior-focused mold/mildew defense; best for damp basements and interior brick accents.
Product comparisons
| Product | Best Use | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| KILZ Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint | Interior/Exterior brick, concrete, masonry | Blocks up to 12 PSI water pressure; alkali resistant | Not for floors or walls with active water leaks |
| Hensire White Exterior Wall Paint for Concrete & Masonry | Exterior brick and concrete walls | Strong adhesion; multiple colors; outdoor durability | Outdoor-use timing matters; follow dry-weather guidance |
| GLAINTE Brick Transformation Paint | Brick, fireplaces, interior/exterior walls | Direct application on varied surfaces; eco-friendly, low odor | Outdoor use should avoid rain during application |
| Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint | Brick walls and fireplaces (decorative) | 200 sq ft coverage per kit when diluted | Requires dilution and kit-specific instructions |
| Zinsser 02774 PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew-Proof Interior Paint | Interior brick walls in moisture-prone spaces | Self-priming; 5-year mold/mildew resistance | Interior use only; not a bulk exterior barrier |
KILZ Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint
Best for moisture-heavy spaces. This nanotechnology-based paint forms a robust water barrier, capable of blocking up to 12 PSI of water pressure on concrete and masonry surfaces. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, including brick, stucco, and cinder blocks. For below-grade applications, seal cracks with hydraulic cement before painting. The finish resists alkali buildup, ensuring durability in basements and damp exterior walls. Use this if you need a strong, long-lasting moisture shield in challenging environments. A limitation is that it should not be used on floors or on walls with active water leaks.
Hensire White Exterior Wall Paint for Concrete & Masonry
Best for exterior brick or concrete facades where color options and robust weather resistance are priorities. It offers strong adhesion to rough textures and resists peeling and moisture damage in outdoor conditions. Choose this if you want a durable, long-lasting exterior finish that complements brick textures. A caveat is that outdoor projects should be planned during favorable weather to avoid moisture exposure during application.
GLAINTE Brick Transformation Paint
Best for DIY brick projects where you want direct brick painting with a water-resistant finish. It can be applied to brick, concrete, wood, and more, with sun exposure and weather resistance rated for outdoor use. The formula is low-odor and VOC-friendly, and it supports adjustable opacity by mixing with water (1:1 for light veiling, 1:2 for bolder effects). Limitations include outdoor-use timing and ensuring fully dry surfaces before exposure to rain to preserve the finish.
Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint
Best for achieving a classic whitewashed brick look. This product requires dilution with water to cover up to 200 square feet and is designed for brick surfaces and fireplaces. It is low in odor and VOCs, making it suitable for indoor applications where a lighter, decorative finish is desired. A potential limitation is the need to follow dilution guidance to achieve the intended coverage and appearance.
Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew-Proof Interior Paint
Best for interior brick walls in moisture-prone rooms. This self-priming paint reduces prep time, and its film resists mold and mildew for up to five years when properly applied. It resists dirt and moisture on the coating, helping maintain a cleaner surface in basements or bathrooms. Avoid exterior use; this is designed for interior environments and may not provide exterior weather resistance.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Brick Wall Waterproofing
What surface are you treating?
Exterior brick and masonry require durable, weather-resistant coatings with strong adhesion to rough textures. Interior brick in damp spaces needs mold- and moisture-resistant formulas that tolerate humidity without peeling.
Do you need a direct-apply finish or a primer-included solution?
Some products are self-priming and ready for top coats, while others may require surface preparation or primers to improve adhesion and performance on brick or concrete.
Is DIY texture or color important?
Options range from solid, uniform finishes to decorative whitewashing or textured effects. Consider whether you want to preserve brick texture or hide imperfections with color choices.
How weather-aware is your project?
Outdoor brick projects should be scheduled for dry, mild days to avoid rain during application. For interior basements and damp spaces, look for moisture-barrier performance and alkali resistance.
What is the maintenance expectation?
Choose finishes that resist dirt buildup and are easy to clean. Some paints offer long-term mildew resistance, reducing frequent repaints in humid environments.
Quick buying tips
- For basements or masonry walls with active moisture concerns, prioritize products with water blocking and alkali resistance.
- For exterior brick facades, select high-adhesion, weather-resistant finishes that tolerate UV exposure and temperature swings.
- When updating interior brick accents, consider mildew-proof formulas to minimize mold risk in moist rooms.
FAQ
- Q: Can I paint brick walls directly without primer?
- A: Some products are self-priming on properly prepared surfaces, but check the label to confirm if a primer is recommended for your brick texture and condition.
- Q: Is brick paint waterproof?
- A: Many brick paints offer water resistance and moisture barrier properties, but level of waterproofing varies by product. Review the product claims and surface recommendations.
- Q: Can these paints be used indoors and outdoors?
- A: Several options are designed for both interior and exterior use, while some are intended for interior spaces only. Verify the product’s intended environment before purchasing.
- Q: Do I need to seal brick after painting?
- A: Sealing requirements depend on the paint type and project exposure. Some paints provide built-in protection, while others may benefit from a separate sealant for extended moisture resistance.
- Q: How should I prepare brick surfaces before painting?
- A: Clean the surface to remove dust, efflorescence, and loose paint. Fill cracks with appropriate masonry filler and allow it to cure before applying the coating.
- Q: How long does a painted brick surface last?
- A: Longevity depends on product type, surface preparation, climate, and weather exposure. Choose a finish with the highest resistance to moisture and environmental conditions for the best durability.