The Top Masonry Paint Brands You Should Consider

Introduction

Masonry paint plays a critical role in the maintenance and appearance of exterior walls, providing protection against the elements and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a property. Whether you’re refreshing the exterior of your home or undertaking a commercial project, selecting the right paint can make all the difference in both appearance and durability.

It’s no secret that the UK’s weather is often unpredictable, with its fair share of rain, frost, and sunshine. Therefore, it’s essential to invest in high-quality masonry paint that offers strong weather resistance, excellent adhesion, and long-lasting results. With many brands on the market, finding the most suitable option for your specific needs can be daunting.

This article explores the top masonry paint brands you should consider. We evaluate their unique features, product offerings, and suitability for different applications, helping you make the most informed choice for your next painting project.

Why Choosing the Right Masonry Paint Brand Matters

Before we delve into the top masonry paint brands, it’s important to understand why selecting the right brand matters. Masonry paint is not just about aesthetics—it’s an essential protective layer for your brickwork or concrete surfaces. A poor-quality product can lead to peeling, cracking, and frequent reapplications, costing you more time and money in the long run.

By choosing a reputable brand, you ensure:

1. Robust Protection: Top-tier masonry paints resist water penetration, UV damage, and frost, preventing structural issues like dampness or cracking.
2. Long-Lasting Results: High-quality paints often last for 10 years or more, ensuring minimal maintenance.
3. Wide Colour Options: Leading brands offer versatile ranges of colours to suit traditional, modern, or creative designs.
4. Easy Application: Trusted brands formulate their paints for smooth application, saving you time and effort during the job.

Now, let’s dive into the best masonry paint brands available and what sets them apart.

The Top Masonry Paint Brands

1. Dulux Weathershield

Dulux is a household name in the paint industry, and its Weathershield masonry paint range is one of the top choices for exterior painting projects. Known for exceptional durability and weather resistance, Dulux Weathershield is formulated to withstand the toughest UK weather conditions.

Features:

1. Rainproof technology ensures the painted surface resists water within just a few hours of application, making it ideal for unpredictable weather.
2. Protects against mould, algae, and fungal growth, keeping your walls looking fresh for years.
3. Available in a wide variety of colours, from traditional shades like white and magnolia to modern hues like stone grey and coastal blue.

Homeowners appreciate Dulux Weathershield’s 15-year guarantee, reflecting its reliability. This brand is suitable for brick, concrete, and stone surfaces, commonly found in residential and commercial properties alike.

2. Sandtex

Sandtex is another trusted name in masonry paint, offering a premium range of products that are designed to endure extreme weather while delivering an exceptional finish. With over 60 years’ experience, Sandtex is a go-to brand for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Features:

1. Microseal technology ensures providing breathability and weatherproofing for exterior walls.
2. Excellent coverage with a smooth finish, making it easy to apply even for beginners.
3. Highly resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading.
4. Up to 15 years of durability with minimal maintenance requirements.

Sandtex’s smooth and textured options make it versatile, allowing users to choose between a sleek modern finish or a ripple-textured effect. Popular colours include Sandstone, Brick Red, and Chalk Hill, which are perfect for traditional British homes.

3. Leyland Trade

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on quality, Leyland Trade masonry paint is an excellent choice. Leyland Trade offers cost-effective solutions for painting exterior walls, making it a popular selection for large-scale projects.

Features:

1. Good weather resistance, protecting surfaces against rain, frost, and UV exposure.
2. Easy to apply with rollers, brushes, or sprayers.
3. Cost-effective without sacrificing quality.
4. Available in a limited but practical selection of colours.

While it may not have as many advanced features as other brands on this list, Leyland Trade is perfect for properties needing a quick refresh without breaking the bank. It is particularly popular among tradespeople and commercial painters.

4. Johnstone’s

Johnstone’s masonry paint brings a perfect balance of affordability and performance. Designed for long-lasting performance on exterior walls, Johnstone’s products are formulated to protect surfaces against the British climate.

Features:

1. Weather-resistant formula designed to prevent cracking and peeling.
2. Offers great breathability to reduce the risk of damp and moisture build-up.
3. Good coverage, with fewer coats needed compared to many alternatives.
4. A mix of smooth and textured finishes to suit your preference.

The brand’s Stormshield range is particularly popular for high-performance applications. Colours include classic neutrals as well as trendier shades, ensuring something for everyone.

5. Zinsser

Zinsser is well-regarded for its advanced paint technologies, and its masonry paint options are no exception. Known for offering problem-solving paints, Zinsser is an excellent choice for surfaces that need extra care and protection.

Features:

1. Quick-drying formula, allowing swift project completion.
2. Mould and mildew-resistant properties, ideal for damp-prone areas.
3. Self-priming paints that save time and effort during application.
4. Exceptional adhesion on challenging surfaces.

Zinsser’s exterior paints, such as AllWeather Exterior Masonry Paint, are well-suited for demanding environments. They’re particularly effective for restoration projects or repainting surfaces with existing damage.

6. Ronseal

Ronseal is synonymous with straight-talking, high-quality paint products, and its masonry paint range is no different. With easy-to-use formulas and standout durability, Ronseal is a favourite among DIY painters.

Features:

1. 10-year performance guarantee for lasting coverage.
2. Choose from smooth or textured finishes to suit your preferred aesthetic.
3. Highly water-resistant and UV-resistant paint formulations.
4. Can be applied to brick, stone, concrete, and render.

For those seeking a no-nonsense solution for painting masonry surfaces, Ronseal delivers reliability and ease of use. Popular for mid-sized residential projects, Ronseal’s colour palette includes timeless shades such as Charcoal Grey and White.

How to Choose the Best Masonry Paint Brand for Your Project

Now that you’re aware of the top masonry paint brands, how do you decide which one is best for your needs? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Longevity: Consider the durability of the paint. Premium brands with 10-15 year guarantees are ideal for long-term results.
2. Surface Type: Some paints are better suited for specific surfaces, such as concrete, brick, or render.
3. Weather Resistance: Choose a brand that offers excellent water and UV resistance, particularly for areas exposed to harsh climates.
4. Finish Style: Decide whether you prefer smooth, textured, or satin finishes.
5. Budget: While premium brands are often worth the investment, budget options like Leyland or Johnstone’s still provide good performance.

Always read product reviews, test a small area first, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about your choice.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality masonry paint brand is crucial for protecting your exterior walls from wear and weather damage while achieving a visually appealing finish. Whether you prioritise durability, budget, or specific finishing styles, there’s an option in this guide to suit your requirements.

Dulux Weathershield and Sandtex stand out for their premium performance and long-lasting results. However, budget-conscious buyers will find great value with Leyland Trade or Johnstone’s. Meanwhile, Zinsser and Ronseal offer specialised solutions for tougher jobs and unique requirements.

By choosing one of these top masonry paint brands, you can complete your project with confidence and ensure your property remains protected and stylish for years to come.