• Manifestations
  1. Paint film on fresh masonry undergoes a loss of color and overall deterioration.
• Causes
  1. Fresh masonry may contain lime, a very alkaline component.
  2. Until the new masonry has “cured” for a year it can have a detrimental effect on paint film.
  3. Curing is accomplished by the masonry reacting with carbon dioxide in the air, thereby dissipating its natural alkalinity.
• Solutions
  1. Prior to painting new masonry, allow it to cure for a minimum of 30 days. The ideal curing time is one year.
  2. When that is not possible, coat the masonry with a high-quality, sealer or latex primer that is alkali resistant.
  3. Then apply a top quality, all acrylic latex exterior paint.
  4. This type of paint contains an acrylic binder that is resistant to the detrimental effects of alkali on fresh masonry.