Q: What is SPO Anti-Condensation Paint and how does it work?
A: SPO Anti-Condensation Paint prevents condensation by warming the surface. The formula contains thermal insulating particles that create a slight textured finish—these particles raise the surface temperature by several degrees, stopping warm, moisture-laden air from condensing when it meets cold walls or ceilings. By preventing condensation forming, it eliminates the damp conditions that cause black mould growth, dripping water, and peeling wallpaper. The water-based formula also contains biocidal additives that resist mould and mildew growth.
Q: Where can I use SPO Anti-Condensation Paint?
A: Use it on interior walls and ceilings where condensation forms—particularly bathroom ceilings (not shower enclosure walls), kitchen walls and ceilings, bedroom walls, basements, cellars, and areas with metal roofing or poor insulation. It's ideal for cold walls and poorly ventilated spaces. Not suitable for surfaces exposed to direct water contact (such as shower walls or splashbacks) or exterior use. For rising damp or penetrating damp, use SPO Anti-Damp Paint instead.
Q: Can I use this paint in a shower area?
A: Yes, but only on shower ceilings—not on shower enclosure walls or surfaces exposed to direct water contact. The thermal particles warm the ceiling surface to prevent condensation forming and dripping, but the paint is not designed for direct water exposure like shower walls or bath surrounds. For general bathroom walls away from direct water, it works perfectly.
Q: Why does the paint have a slight texture?
A: The slight texture comes from the thermal insulating particles that warm the surface—this texture is essential for the product to work. The particles raise the surface temperature by several degrees, preventing condensation from forming. The texture is barely noticeable (subtle matt finish) but critical for performance. If you need a completely smooth finish, this product won't be suitable, but you can overcoat it with emulsion once dry (the thermal layer continues working beneath).
Q: How do I apply SPO Anti-Condensation Paint?
A: Apply by brush or short-pile roller in temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. Stir thoroughly before use. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and properly prepared (see Application & Maintenance section). If mould is present, treat with Fluxaf Mould Remover first. Apply first coat evenly, allow to dry for minimum 4 hours, then apply second coat. Two coats provide optimal thermal insulation and condensation prevention. Coverage is approximately 8–10 m² per litre per coat.
Q: How long does SPO Anti-Condensation Paint take to dry before re-coating?
A: At 20°C, SPO Anti-Condensation Paint is touch dry in 2–4 hours and hard dry in 4 hours. For re-coating, wait a minimum of 4 hours between coats. Full hardness is achieved in 3–5 days. Drying times may be longer in cooler temperatures or high humidity. Ensure good ventilation during application and drying.
Q: Can I overcoat SPO Anti-Condensation Paint with emulsion or wallpaper?
A: Yes, SPO Anti-Condensation Paint can be overcoated with emulsion or decorative finishes, or left as a matt white topcoat. If overcoating, wait for full hardness (3–5 days) before applying topcoat. The thermal insulating layer will continue to warm the surface and prevent condensation forming even when overcoated. Ensure the topcoat is breathable to maintain the condensation-prevention properties.
Q: Does SPO Anti-Condensation Paint prevent mould growth?
A: Yes, in two ways: (1) By warming the surface to prevent condensation forming—eliminating the damp conditions mould needs to grow, and (2) The biocidal additives actively resist mould and mildew growth. However, if mould is already present, treat the surface with Fluxaf Mould and Mildew Remover before applying this paint for best results. This paint prevents future mould by stopping condensation at the source.
Q: Will SPO Anti-Condensation Paint fix rising damp or penetrating damp?
A: No, SPO Anti-Condensation Paint is designed to prevent condensation (surface moisture caused by warm air meeting cold surfaces), not rising damp or penetrating damp (structural water ingress). If you have rising damp or water coming through walls from outside, use SPO Anti-Damp Paint or address the underlying moisture source first. This paint works by warming the surface to prevent condensation forming.
Q: How much coverage can I expect from SPO Anti-Condensation Paint?
A: SPO Anti-Condensation Paint provides approximately 8–10 m² per litre per coat, depending on surface porosity and texture. A 500ml tin covers 4–5 m², a 1L tin covers 8–10 m², and a 2.5L tin covers 20–25 m². For a typical 10 m² bathroom ceiling with 2 coats, you would need approximately 2–2.5 litres total (one 2.5L tin). Porous or rough surfaces may require more paint. We recommend ordering 10–15% extra for surface variation and touch-ups.
Q: Is SPO Anti-Condensation Paint safe to use in occupied spaces?
A: Yes, SPO Anti-Condensation Paint is water-based with very low VOC content (max 30 g/L) and is safe to use in occupied spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. It's non-flammable and cleans up with water. Ensure good ventilation during application and drying. The biocidal additives are safe when used as directed and help create a healthier indoor environment by preventing mould growth.
Q: Can I use SPO Anti-Condensation Paint on metal surfaces?
A: Yes, but bare metal must be primed first with SPO All Metals Primer for proper adhesion and corrosion protection. Once primed, apply SPO Anti-Condensation Paint as normal. This is ideal for interior metal roofing, steel beams, or metal ceilings where condensation drips cause rust and damage. The thermal insulating particles warm the metal surface to prevent condensation forming, protecting against rust and water damage.
