Do it yourself - tips and tricks
Why Should You Waterproof Your Facade? Benefits, Explanation & Step-by-Step Guides
With the increasingly unpredictable Dutch climate, the demand for facade waterproofing products is growing rapidly. Under the umbrella term impregnation products, we include all solutions that penetrate the surface to make it water-repellent, durable, and protected.
What Is Facade Impregnation (Hydrophobization)?
Waterproofing exterior walls and facades is officially called hydrophobization. This process involves applying a product that:
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Makes the outer surface of the wall water-repellent
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Keeps the wall vapor-permeable from the inside
This means rainwater can no longer penetrate, while moisture from inside can still escape. The result? No mold growth, a drier wall, and better insulation performance.
How Do Hydrophobic Agents Work?
Hydrophobic agents consist of two components:
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Carrier – ensures deep penetration into the pores of the substrate
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Active substance – chemically reacts with the mineral components of the wall
Because the product penetrates deeply into the pores, it creates a long-lasting protection that does not peel or discolor. The wall remains breathable but no longer absorbs water.
At Impregneeroutlet.nl, we use the term impregnation products for convenience, but technically, we mean hydrophobic agents.
Why Waterproof Your Facade? Key Benefits
A treated facade offers numerous advantages:
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Prevents penetrating damp
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Makes the facade water-repellent for years
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Reduces algae and mold growth
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Improves insulation by keeping walls dry
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Protects against acid rain
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Guards against graffiti
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Provides fire-retardant properties
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Prevents frost damage
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Stops lime, salt, and rust efflorescence
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Avoids unsightly stains on windows and frames
With the right product, your facade will last for years, remain visually appealing, and stay structurally strong. Use our Product Selector to easily find the best solution.
Is Facade Impregnation Expensive?
Many people think waterproofing is costly, but that’s a misconception.
DIY Impregnation
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50–80% cheaper than hiring a professional
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Save on labor, travel costs, and height work
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Control the quality of the final result
Professional Service
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Expert application
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Higher costs due to labor, materials, and safety regulations
DIY impregnation is an excellent choice for cost-conscious and handy homeowners.
What Do You Need to Waterproof a Facade?
General Supplies
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Impregnation product (calculate required amount + 10–20% extra)
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Low-pressure sprayer (weed sprayer) for liquids
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Block brush or long-pile roller + paint bucket for creams
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Protective sheets and tape (not needed for creams)
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Old clothes and gloves
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Ladder or scaffolding
Step-by-Step Guide: Waterproofing with Liquid Products
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Clean the facade – Use hot water and optionally high pressure. For heavy dirt or weathered walls, sandblasting or chemical cleaning is recommended.
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Protect surroundings – Cover paving and tape windows and frames if necessary.
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Wear protective clothing – Gloves and old clothes advised.
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Prepare the product – Shake well and fill the sprayer.
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Adjust spray nozzle – Choose a soft, full jet (do not mist).
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Apply the product
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Start at the bottom
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Work in clear horizontal bands upward
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Ensure full saturation
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Apply a second wet-on-wet coat if needed
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Clean tools and spills immediately – Use a turpentine solution.
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Drying time – Allow at least 5 hours.
Congratulations – your facade is now waterproofed!
Step-by-Step Guide: Waterproofing with Cream Products
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Clean the facade – Same as above.
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Protect paving – Cover only; taping windows usually unnecessary.
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Wear protective clothing
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Prepare the cream – Stir well and pour into a paint bucket. Follow the technical datasheet on our website.
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Apply the cream
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Start at the bottom
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Work in manageable sections upward
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Use roller, brush, or airless sprayer
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Usually, one coat is enough
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Clean tools – Use soapy water.
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Drying time – About 30 minutes.
Your waterproofing project is complete!
