Anti condensation paint: What it is and how it works

Some rooms in our homes are more prone to being exposed to moisture and humidity, such as our bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Without adequate protection, these areas can suffer from condensation building up on walls and ceilings leading to property issues like water damage and black mold growth.

To deal with this, a lot of homeowners are turning to a product that claims to be anti-mold growth and anti-condensation paint. But what exactly is anti-condensation paint? How does it work? In this short read, we’ll answer these questions and more, so that you know what to expect if you decide your home needs some anti-condensation paint.

What is anti-condensation paint?

Anti condensation paint is a type of paint containing thermal insulators. These help regulate surface temperature, making colder surfaces less likely to attract water droplets. When you apply anti condensation paint to walls or ceilings, it creates a layer of insulation that helps reduce condensation problems by preventing warm air from coming into direct contact with a cold surface. This, in turn, helps prevent mold and other forms of moisture-related damage.

However, it’s important to note that anti-condensation paint is not the same as anti-mold paint; anti-mold options typically contain fungicides that kill mold spores directly.

Where should anti-condensation paint be applied?

Condensation commonly forms when warm air meets a colder surface, such as on cold walls in humid rooms like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or entryways. These are the spaces where anti condensation paint is most effective.

Condensation is also often mistaken to be the same thing as dampness. However, the two are not the same, even though the result is moisture on the walls. While condensation is caused by a lack of ventilation causing moisture from humid air to settle on interior walls, damp issues are caused when the building lacks efficient protection that prevents outside moisture from entering the home. You will not find condensation on external walls.

The best way to damp proof your home would be to check and upgrade the insulation. Damp-proof paint can help reduce dampness as well.

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How effective is anti condensation paint?

Anti condensation paint is not designed to prevent condensation completely. It is designed to reduce condensation and make dealing with mold growth and other water damage easier. So if your basement turns into flood every spring, this paint will not prevent that from happening. It is only meant for walls where some moisture forms as a result of condensation. For example, while it won’t stop severe water intrusion, it can effectively deal with mild condensation problems.

What textures and colors does it come in?

While you obviously get flat anti condensation paint, it is also available in some textures. These textured paints look more appealing than the flat finishes and are easier to apply a well. This is because they are thicker than flat paints, which makes them less likely to drip when brushed onto a wall.

These paints are also available in a wide range of colors for you to choose from. Our advice would be to choose a color that does not allow the water on the surface to be seen easily. For example, a darker shade might hide water stains better than a light-colored paint, where water droplets are more visible.

Should you buy water-based, latex-based or oil-based anti-condensation paint?

Among the three, latex-based paints are known to have the best anti-condensation properties and therefore, offer the best protection. However, people with latex allergies can opt for oil-based or water-based paints. 

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What is the process to apply anti condensation paint?

Buying paint

The first part of the process is deciding how much paint you need to buy. On average, a gallon of anti-condensation paint can cover around 1600 square feet with two coats of paint. Considering this is more expensive than regular paint, measure the actual area that needs to be covered and buy only as much paint as is needed.

Prep work

Some amount of prep work is necessary before you start painting the walls. 

• If your walls have mold, use a mold killer to get rid of them. Any other method may spread the spores and make the infestation worse.

• Any damp spots on the walls are best dealt with in advance by covering them with a damp seal.

• Make sure you remove wallpaper and existing paint completely before you begin painting. The best way to do this is to sand it down.
• Wipe the wall clean. Make sure it is completely dry before you start painting.

The painting process

Now that the prep work is complete, here’s how to go about the painting process.

• Begin by stirring the paint thoroughly to make sure you get a smooth consistency. Then, pour it into a tray.
• Use a brush or roller into the tray and begin applying the paint onto the surface. Make sure you apply (anti condensation paint a reasonably thick layer)
• Always start from the top and work your way down. 
• Once you’re done with one coat, you need to allow for a drying time of between two and four hours before adding a second coat.
• After the final coat, wait for the recommended dry time before painting over it or adding wallpaper.

Always remember to double-check

Anti-condensation paint is meant to prevent condensation on the walls of humid rooms but is not really a waterproofing or mold removal solution. So, if you’re not sure if what you need is this paint or a different solution altogether, it is always best to get the advice of a professional painting contractor. 

Bottom line

Anti condensation paint is a practical solution for managing condensation problems and protecting your walls from black mold and moisture-related damage. By applying anti condensation paint to colder surfaces in humid rooms, you can reduce heat loss, improve wall durability, and help maintain a healthier living environment. While it won’t completely eliminate condensation or serve as a waterproofing measure, its ability to address common issues makes it an excellent choice for areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Proper prep work and application can ensure maximum effectiveness. For best results, consult a professional painting contractor if you’re unsure about the right solution for your home.

Written by Narayan Shrouthy. June 9, 2022

Narayan is a content writer for Kukun. With experience in both content writing and editing, Narayan mixes his writing and love for reading with his passion for music. As an active musician, He aims to be a key player in Kukun's content experience.