What is impregnating a facade?

Impregnating a facade is a technique in which a water and dirt-repellent liquid is applied to the exterior wall. This liquid penetrates deep into the pores of the masonry bricks and forms a water-repellent layer. This special liquid prevents rainwater, melted snow, and other types of moisture from penetrating the wall while still allowing the wall to breathe. This process helps to prevent moisture problems and extends the lifespan of the facade. A floor can also be impregnated to maintain, for example, tiles.

Sometimes you will also come across the term hydrophobation, but this means the same as impregnation. Both terms refer to the process of making the wall water-repellent.

The advantages and disadvantages of impregnating an exterior wall

Impregnating the exterior wall has many advantages. However, there can also be some disadvantages. We have listed everything so you can get a good overview.

Advantages:

1. Protection against moisture: An impregnated facade prevents rainwater from penetrating the walls, helping to prevent moisture problems and mold growth. A common issue in homes is moisture damage, which is prevented in this way. This applies to both old and new exterior walls.
2. Longer lifespan: The special liquid sprayed on the exterior wall ensures that your facade remains beautiful for a longer time. The protective layer makes the facade less susceptible to weather influences, extending the lifespan of the facade.
3. Dirt is less likely to adhere: Sometimes dirt such as moss can cling to a wall. An impregnated exterior wall ensures that dirt is less likely to stick. If there is dirt on your exterior wall, it is easier to remove than on a non-impregnated facade.
4. Increase in insulation value: Impregnation can help to better insulate the wall, which can lead to lower energy costs. This may also result in a higher value of the property.

Disadvantages:

1. Costs: Having a facade impregnated can be expensive, especially if done by a professional. Also, consider any potential cleaning costs.
2. Reapplication: The impregnation needs to be reapplied over time. How long the facade is protected depends on the quality of the liquid and the weather conditions. Severe weather conditions may require reapplication sooner. The average duration of protection provided by the liquid is 10 years.
3. Preparation work: To impregnate an (old) facade, the exterior wall must be in good condition. This means that the facade must be cleaned and repaired. This can increase costs.

How is a facade impregnated?

Impregnating a facade is a process that must be carried out carefully to achieve optimal results. Below is a step-by-step plan on how a professional approaches this:

1. Preparation: The facade is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, moss, algae, and loose paint residues. This can be done using high-pressure cleaning or special cleaning agents.
2. Inspection: After cleaning, the facade is inspected for any damages or cracks that need to be repaired before the impregnation liquid can be applied.
3. Sealing: If there are damages, the cracks and holes are sealed with the appropriate filler.
4. Applying the impregnation agent: Once the damages are repaired, the impregnation liquid is evenly applied to the facade. This can be done with a roller, brush, or spray equipment, depending on the size of the facade and the type of liquid. The type of liquid used depends on the substrate of the facade.
5. Drying time: The facade must be given time to dry properly, and the impregnation liquid must have the opportunity to penetrate deeply into the pores.

What does it cost to impregnate a facade?

The costs for cleaning and impregnating a facade can vary widely. Some factors include: the provider, the size of the facade, the type of liquid, and the condition of the facade. Generally, you can expect to pay between €8 and €15 per square meter. Keep in mind that if the facade needs to be cleaned and repaired, the total price may increase.

Can you impregnate a facade yourself?

Yes, it is possible to impregnate a facade yourself, but it requires some preparation and the right materials. First, it is important to know that impregnation cannot be done during wet days or freezing weather.

What do you need to impregnate the facade yourself?

• High-pressure cleaner
• Cleaning agent
• A scaffold
• Filler for damages
• Impregnation liquid and a roller, brush, or spray device to apply it

Here are the steps you should follow if you want to impregnate your facade yourself:

1. Cleaning: Ensure that the facade is clean by cleaning it with a high-pressure cleaner or cleaning agent.
2. Inspection and repair: Check the facade for cracks and holes and repair them if necessary.
3. Applying the impregnation agent: Use a roller, brush, or spray device to evenly apply the impregnation agent to the facade.
4. Drying time: Allow the facade to dry properly according to the instructions of the impregnation agent’s manufacturer.
5. Check: After drying, check the facade to ensure that the impregnation agent has been absorbed well everywhere.

Doing it yourself can save costs, and it is certainly possible to do it yourself. However, it is important to know that professional craftsmen have experience and special materials and techniques.