Sandtex Masonry Paint has long been a staple in the painting industry, particularly known for its durability and ease of use on external surfaces. While it has remained a popular choice among professionals, recent discussions have highlighted both strengths and weaknesses in its current formulation. In this review, we will explore professional feedback on Sandtex Masonry Paint, focusing on its performance, coverage, durability, and market alternatives.
Strengths of Sandtex Masonry Paint
Durability and Longevity
One of the main advantages of Sandtex is its durability, especially in tough external conditions. Professional painters such as Sean O’F and Leigh B appreciate its resilience, with Leigh B noting that Sandtex “will outlast Weathershield” in many cases. Steven N, a long-time user of Sandtex, emphasises that it’s the only paint he trusts for his exterior work, stating, “Sandtex hasn’t let me down yet.”
For coastal or high-exposure properties, Kristian A recommends Sandtex Extreme Exposure due to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a go-to for projects where weather resistance is paramount. This sentiment is echoed by Aaron S, who finds that Sandtex’s durability in high-exposure environments provides peace of mind on challenging projects.
Smooth Application and Coverage
When it comes to ease of application, Sandtex Masonry Paint has been praised for its smooth texture, particularly the smooth masonry variant. Phil B, a professional decorator, notes that Sandtex smooth “sprays well” when using airless spray systems, which is a huge time-saver for larger projects. Additionally, professionals like Daniel R recommend thinning Sandtex slightly for optimal spray application, with many painters confirming that the smooth version works well in both traditional and spray applications.
A Trusted Brand
Several professionals, including Steven N and Mark S, have remained loyal to Sandtex over the years. They consider it to be a reliable brand with solid performance, especially for residential exteriors. Len M shared that when it comes to exterior paints, “Sandtex is hard to beat,” a sentiment supported by numerous professionals who continue to use it for both smooth and textured finishes.
Weaknesses of Sandtex Masonry Paint
Coverage Issues
Coverage is one of the main complaints professionals have voiced about Sandtex Masonry Paint. Paul G, who has used Sandtex for many years, noted that his recent experience was disappointing, requiring “three coats, with no body to it at all.” Edward C expressed similar frustration, mentioning that he needed to apply “four coats” to achieve proper coverage, which significantly increased labor time.
This issue seems to be more pronounced when using the white variant of Sandtex. Bradley M, a professional who has used Sandtex for years, said he now finds himself needing to apply “at least two extra coats” of white to achieve the same results as before. Billy D further criticised the white version, stating, “Sandtex white is only good with colour in it,” suggesting that the tinted versions perform better in terms of opacity.
Drying Time and Sheen
Another downside mentioned by professionals is Sandtex’s drying time and sheen level. Jason R noted that Sandtex often requires extended drying times, which can be a drawback in colder or more humid conditions. This sentiment is echoed by James Y, who finds that Sandtex has a higher sheen level than expected for a smooth masonry paint, resulting in a finish that can sometimes appear too shiny for exterior walls.
Additionally, Craig H experienced issues with a Sandtex-painted property peeling after only three years, which raises questions about its long-term durability. While this could be attributed to poor preparation, it highlights the importance of meticulous surface prep when using this product.
Market Alternatives to Sandtex
Dulux Weathershield
Dulux Weathershield is frequently compared to Sandtex in terms of coverage and durability. John R recommends Dulux for new projects, stating that it offers better opacity and coverage in fewer coats. However, it’s worth noting that some professionals, such as Steve C, have raised concerns about recent batches of Dulux Weathershield being “watered down,” leading some painters to reconsider their loyalty to the brand.
Johnstone’s Stormshield
Another alternative that has gained traction among professional painters is Johnstone’s Stormshield. Andrew I mentioned that Stormshield is “decent stuff,” and many professionals, including Craig H and Graham P, have had great results with it. Johnstone’s pliolite version is also praised for its adhesion and coverage in challenging conditions, especially for older or more porous surfaces.
Wethertex AP77
For those seeking a higher-performing paint, Wethertex AP77 has been recommended as an excellent alternative to Sandtex. James Y explained that Wethertex offers better breathability and self-cleaning properties compared to Sandtex and Dulux. Its higher price tag is justified by the longevity and finish it delivers, particularly in coastal or high-exposure environments. Andy W, who recently started using Wethertex, is impressed with the results, noting that it’s “a good all-around product for finish and longevity.”
Emperor Masonry Paint
For premium projects, Emperor Masonry Paint is often cited as one of the best, though it comes with a high price tag. Rich R, who has used Emperor paint several times, remarked that while the quality is “impressive,” it’s only viable for projects where budget is not a concern. Emperor is praised for its advanced weather resistance and durability, making it ideal for high-end projects.
| Product | Durability | Coverage | Drying Time | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sandtex Masonry Paint | High | Moderate (requires 3 coats) | Slow | Moderate | Residential, general external use |
| Dulux Weathershield | High | Good (2 coats) | Moderate | Moderate to High | Residential, general external use |
| Johnstone’s Stormshield | Very High | Good (2 coats) | Fast | Moderate | Challenging weather conditions |
| Wethertex AP77 | Very High | Excellent (2 coats) | Fast | High | Breathable surfaces, longevity |
| Emperor Masonry Paint | Exceptional | Excellent (1-2 coats) | Moderate | Very High | High-end, premium projects |
Sentiment Analysis
The feedback on Sandtex Masonry Paint from professional painters was largely positive, with 64.7% of decorators expressing satisfaction, particularly regarding its durability and smooth application. However, 35.3% of the surveyed decorators were more critical, focusing on issues like poor coverage and extended drying times.
Conclusion: Is Sandtex Masonry Paint Worth It?
Sandtex remains a popular choice among professional painters for its durability, smooth application, and reliable performance in various weather conditions. It is especially favoured for high-exposure projects where weather resistance is crucial. However, recent concerns about coverage, particularly with the white variant, and its long drying time have caused some professionals to explore alternatives like Johnstone’s Stormshield, Wethertex, and Emperor Paint.
Ultimately, Sandtex Masonry Paint still holds its place in the market as a reliable and cost-effective option, especially for tinted finishes. However, for professionals seeking better coverage and faster drying times, alternatives like Dulux Weathershield or Wethertex AP77 may offer better value for time and money. As always, proper preparation is key to achieving the best results with any exterior paint, and Sandtex is no exception.
