Our customers often ask, what is the difference between waterproofing and painting? Good question. While both waterproofing and painting add to the longevity and look of a building, they serve different purposes and involve unique materials and application techniques. In some cases, waterproofing can be quite technical, compared to paint application, requiring certified applicators. Understanding differences between paint and waterproofing is critical for property groups, and property management companies when making decisions about building maintenance.

Waterproofing: Sealing Surfaces and Keeping Water Out
Waterproofing is the process of creating a barrier on a building’s substrates to prevent water penetration. This is achieved through the application of membranes, sealants, and coating systems that form a continuous, impervious layer. Waterproofing is essential for preventing water damage and structural issues in your building.
At High-Rise and Mid-Rise Building, Waterproofing is used:
- To Prevent cracking, concrete spalls, and deterioration of concrete due to water ingress at foundations
- To create a waterproof barrier to protect the underlying structure (concrete or wood) from water damage at balconies and decks. Also, to prevent leaks into lower levels.
- To contain moisture and prevent water damage to other building components at planters.
- To seal cracks and joints to maintain the building envelope.
Paint: Aesthetics and Surface Protection
Painting serves a dual purpose: enhancing the visual appeal of a building and providing a protective layer against weathering and minor damage. While some paints offer water resistance, they are not a substitute for dedicated waterproofing systems.
Painting Applications in High-Rise and Mid-Rise Buildings
- Exterior Walls: Apply high-performance coatings to protect the facade from UV degradation, moisture damage, and environmental pollutants.
- Interior Walls and Ceilings: Enhance the aesthetics of common areas and individual units with durable and aesthetically pleasing finishes.
- Doors and Trim: Provide a protective and decorative finish for wooden and metal components.
- Metalwork: Apply anti-corrosive primers and topcoats to protect metal elements like railings, structural steel, and stairwells from rust and degradation.
Key Differences: Waterproofing vs Paint
Feature | Waterproofing | Painting |
Primary Function | Prevent water penetration | Enhance aesthetics, provide surface protection |
Materials | Liquid membranes, cementitious coatings, polyurethane sealant | Water-based, alkyd, or epoxy paints |
Application | Requires specialized techniques and surface preparation | Applied by brush, roller, or spray |
Performance | Measured by water resistance, tensile strength, elongation | Measured by color fastness, gloss, retention, and scrub resistance |
Longevity | Typically longer lifespan, depending on the system | Requires more frequent reapplication |
Examples of Waterproofing and Paint Systems
Waterproofing:
- PPG Permeacrete Pitt Flex: An elastomeric waterproofing system that will bridge cracks that develop in a masonry or concrete wall. This flexible crack-bridging coating system results in a long-lasting, uniform finish that enhances the appearance of the masonry building.
- Sherwin-Williams Loxon Waterproofing Masonry Coating: A direct-to-concrete and masonry high-build waterproofing system that offers maximum performance compared to conventional paint.
Paints:
- Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint: delivers outstanding performance and protects a building’s substrates against the elements. Its acrylic resin technology offers outstanding adhesion and color retention. SuperPaint is a dirt-resistant and mildew-resistant paint system.
- Dulux Diamond: 100% Acrylic High-Build Latex Paint specially formulated with outstanding technologies to withstand the ever-changing Canadian weather. This paint provides advanced UV protection and dirt resistance to keep exterior colors looking like new.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I paint over a crack to fix it?
A: For hairline cracks yes, for all others, no. Paint is for aesthetics and surface protection but is not a substitute for crack filling. Cracks, especially on concrete, need to be routed with a grinder, sealed with a polyurethane sealant, and then top-coated with a waterproofing system to ensure they are sealed.
Q: How often should I waterproof my building?
A: This depends on the substrate you are waterproofing. As an example deck surfaces with polyurethane membranes have a service life of roughly fifteen years. Exposed concrete walls waterproofed with elastomeric coating systems typically have a service life of ten years. Service life varies from product to product and is always dependent on proper application
Q: Can I paint over a waterproofed surface?
A: Some waterproofing systems are compatible with paints but many are not. For example, applying paint over an elastomeric waterproofing system will lead to adhesion problems. The elastomeric will continue to move under the newly applied paint eventually leading to cracks which will allow for water ingress. This type of failure can lead to costly repair. It allows the best to confirm the original paint or coating system used to ensure compatibility when it comes time to recoat.
Q: How do I choose the right waterproofing system for my building?
A: The best waterproofing system depends on the type of substrate you are restoring, the level and the level of weather exposure. It’s best to consult with a waterproofing or building renewal professional to assess your building and recommend the most suitable system.
Need Expert Advice?
Still not sure if you should paint or waterproof? If you have more questions, we are here to help. Contact us at [email protected] or 604.420.5552 with any questions.