When using brick repair products such as Stonelux Brick Tint , you may come across a label stating:
"Do not use on non-porous surfaces."
This is because some products rely on the brick’s ability to absorb moisture to ensure proper adhesion and long-lasting results.
What is a Porous Brick?
A porous brick absorbs water, meaning it can soak up moisture from rain, humidity, or treatments like brick tints and coatings . In contrast, a non-porous brick repels water, preventing proper absorption.
How to Test Your Brick’s Porosity
You only need one thing: water.
Step 1: Splash Water Onto the Brick
- Pour or splash a small amount of water onto the brick's surface.
Step 2: Observe the Water Reaction
- If the water soaks in quickly → The brick is porous .
- If the water beads up or stays on the surface → The brick is non-porous .
Example: Sealed vs. Unsealed Brick
- In some cases, a brick sealant can make a previously porous brick non-porous .
- To test this, apply water to different areas of the brick.
- If one side absorbs water while the other repels it, the brick has been partially sealed .
Why Does This Matter?
- Porous bricks allow moisture-based treatments like Brick Tint to penetrate and bond properly.
- Non-porous bricks will not absorb treatments effectively, leading to patchy or ineffective results.
- If your brick is non-porous , consider using a brick coating instead of a tint, as coatings sit on the surface rather than soaking in.
Conclusion
Always test your brick before applying any treatment to ensure you get the best results!
🧱 For Porous Bricks: Use Brick Tint – Absorbs into the surface for a natural, long-lasting finish.
🚫 For Non-Porous Bricks: Use Brick Coating – Forms a protective layer on the surface.
The Stonelux Team
We’re the passionate team behind Stonelux, a family-run business dedicated to creating premium stone effect paints that blend beauty and durability. With a commitment to quality and innovation, we aim to inspire and empower you to transform your spaces with the timeless elegance of authentic stone finishes.
