Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush

Substrate Suitability

The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush (2”) is specifically designed for rough and very rough external masonry surfaces. It is ideally suited for application onto brickwork, concrete, stone, render, and similar uneven or porous substrates where conventional brushes may struggle to provide even coverage.

This brush is compatible with a wide range of masonry coatings including masonry paint, damp proof paints such as Wykamol Technoseal, and water-repellent masonry creams like Wykamol Dryseal and Platinum AquaSolve Pro. Its firm bristles are engineered to work these products into coarse textures, making it suitable for both domestic and commercial applications.

Surface Preparation

Before using the Harris Masonry Brush, ensure the surface to be coated is clean, dry, and structurally sound. Remove loose debris, dust, flaking paint, moss, algae or efflorescence using a wire brush or scraper, followed by a stiff-bristle sweeping brush if necessary.

Although the brush is designed to perform well on rough textures, a stable substrate is essential to achieve uniform coverage and optimal adhesion. Where necessary, apply a suitable primer or stabilising solution in accordance with the coating manufacturer’s recommendations.

Application Method

Before beginning work, rub the dry brush bristles with a clean hand to dislodge any loose fibres or dust. The brush should remain dry prior to use—do not pre-wet.

Load the brush generously with paint or coating, ensuring the bristles are sufficiently coated but not overloaded. Apply the product using a firm, controlled stroke, pressing the bristles into crevices and textured recesses to ensure full coverage. The 2-inch width offers greater control in corners, edges, or detailing, making it ideal for cutting in around windows, pipework, or structural joints.

For larger surfaces, use in conjunction with rollers or wider brushes for maximum efficiency, reserving this brush for precision work or initial cutting-in. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance on the coating being applied, including overcoating times and recommended film thickness.

After Care

Upon completing your project, remove as much excess paint from the brush as possible using a clean rag or by scraping against the edge of the paint container. If water-based coatings have been used, wash the brush in warm soapy water, taking care to remove all residual paint from the bristles.

Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry naturally, laying the brush flat to preserve its shape. In the case of oil-based paints or masonry waterproofing creams, clean the brush using a suitable solvent such as white spirit, as per the instructions on the paint tin. Never leave the brush soaking in water or solvent, and do not store it in damp or enclosed areas as this may cause bristle damage or loss.

Proper cleaning and storage will significantly extend the life of the brush and maintain its performance on future applications.

Other Information

The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is designed for repeat use under typical site conditions, but its durability depends heavily on proper maintenance and correct use. Bristle loss can occur if the brush is mishandled or stored improperly.

This product is best used in combination with appropriate protective clothing and safety equipment when applying paints, particularly those containing solvents.

For best results, always refer to the coating manufacturer’s product guidance before beginning any job.

Q) What is the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush designed for?

A) The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is purpose-built for applying masonry paints and protective coatings to rough or very rough exterior surfaces. Its 2-inch head, combined with densely packed bristles and NO-LOSS technology, allows users to work thick, heavy coatings into coarse textures such as brickwork, rendered walls, and natural stone. The design ensures that paints, damp-proof coatings, and masonry creams can be applied evenly and deeply into textured substrates, making the brush especially suitable for outdoor use. This makes it a highly practical tool for both professionals and DIY users tackling exterior painting or damp-proofing projects.

Q) Can the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush be used with waterproofing products?

A) Yes, the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is compatible with a wide range of waterproofing products, including masonry waterproofing creams like Wykamol Dryseal and Platinum AquaSolve Pro. Its bristles are strong enough to apply thick, paste-like substances while still ensuring the coating is worked deeply into the substrate for proper penetration and coverage. Whether applying a water-repellent treatment or a damp-proof membrane, the brush provides excellent control and distribution, making it a reliable choice for protective coating tasks on exterior masonry.

Q) What types of surfaces are suitable for use with the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush?

A) The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is ideal for application on coarse and irregular surfaces including brick, render, concrete, and natural stone. It performs especially well on exterior walls where the surface texture would usually make paint application challenging. Its firm bristles are designed to navigate the uneven contours of such substrates, ensuring that paint or waterproofing treatments reach into all crevices, mortar lines, and recesses. This makes it particularly useful for older properties or heavily textured finishes where standard paint brushes might struggle to provide even coverage.

Q) Is the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush suitable for damp-proofing work?

A) Absolutely. The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is well suited for applying damp-proof paints such as Wykamol Technoseal, as well as other water-based or solvent-based paints. Its 2-inch profile allows users to cut in around tight corners, window frames, or pipework, ensuring precision during damp-proofing jobs. The bristle configuration ensures that thick coatings are spread uniformly, allowing for effective sealing of porous masonry. Whether working internally or externally, this brush provides the necessary durability and control for damp-proofing tasks in both domestic and commercial settings.

Q) What makes the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush different from standard paint brushes?

A) The Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is designed specifically for masonry work, which sets it apart from typical decorating brushes. Its NO-LOSS bristle technology prevents bristle shedding during application, ensuring a cleaner finish without bristle contamination. The dense bristle pattern is tailored to carry and release thicker coatings efficiently, while the firm structure helps push paint deep into uneven surfaces. Combined with its ergonomic handle and 2-inch profile for precision work, this brush delivers enhanced performance where traditional brushes would be less effective, particularly on rough or porous substrates.

Q) Can the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush be used indoors?

A) While the brush is primarily designed for exterior masonry work, it can also be used indoors on rough, unplastered or porous internal walls requiring masonry paint or damp-proof coatings. This includes cellar walls, basements, or utility rooms where a robust coating is needed to protect against moisture. Its 2-inch size allows for precision application in tight interior spaces, and the brush handles water-based paints effectively. However, for smooth interior surfaces, a different type of brush or roller may offer better results, as the stiff bristles of the masonry brush may leave texture behind on flat, finished walls.

Q) How should I prepare the surface before using the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush?

A) Surface preparation is critical for achieving a professional finish with the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the masonry surface to remove loose dust, dirt, and flaking material. This can be done using a wire brush or scraper followed by a stiff-bristle broom. If mould or algae is present, treat it with a suitable biocide. Make sure the surface is dry and structurally sound before application. In cases where the substrate is particularly powdery or chalky, a stabilising solution or masonry primer should be applied to improve adhesion and paint performance.

Q) What is the best way to apply paint using the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush?

A) To use the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush effectively, begin by loading the bristles with paint or coating, making sure not to overload to avoid dripping. Use firm, controlled strokes to press the bristles into the textured surface, allowing the coating to work into all the recesses and gaps. The 2-inch width is especially useful for cutting in around windows, pipes, or other detailed areas. For larger surfaces, it is recommended to use this brush in conjunction with a roller, reserving the brush for precision work or initial application in hard-to-reach areas. Follow the paint manufacturer’s guidance on coverage and recoat intervals.

Q) Is the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush reusable?

A) Yes, the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is fully reusable and built for extended use, provided it is cleaned and stored correctly after each project. After use, remove as much excess paint as possible, then clean the bristles thoroughly with warm soapy water for water-based coatings or an appropriate solvent for oil-based products. Rinse thoroughly, reshape the bristles, and allow the brush to dry flat in a well-ventilated space. Avoid soaking the brush for long periods or storing it while damp, as this can weaken the bristle structure. Proper maintenance significantly extends the life and performance of the brush.

Q) How does the NO-LOSS bristle technology in the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush work?

A) NO-LOSS bristle technology is a key feature of the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush, ensuring that the bristles remain firmly anchored during use. This is achieved through a secure bristle-fixing method that prevents bristle shedding, which can otherwise spoil the finish of a paint job. This not only results in a cleaner and more professional application but also saves time that would otherwise be spent picking loose bristles out of wet paint. It also enhances the longevity of the brush, as it maintains its structure and performance across multiple uses without degradation.

Q) Can the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush be used with solvent-based coatings?

A) Yes, the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is compatible with both water-based and solvent-based paints. When using solvent-based products, it is important to clean the brush with the correct solvent, such as white spirit, immediately after use. The bristles are designed to withstand the harsher properties of solvent-based products without degrading, provided proper cleaning and care are observed. Always check the product instructions on the paint or coating being used to ensure compatibility and follow any safety precautions regarding ventilation and protective equipment.

Q) Are there any limitations to using the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush?

A) While the Harris Seriously Good Masonry Paint Brush is highly effective on rough masonry surfaces, it may not be suitable for smooth or delicate substrates where a finer finish is required. The firm bristles designed for textured surfaces may leave visible brush marks on flat surfaces such as interior plastered walls or smooth wood. Additionally, the 2-inch head, while ideal for precision and detail, is not intended for high-volume coverage on large areas. For broad surfaces, it should be used in conjunction with rollers or wider brushes to maintain efficiency. As with any tool, selecting the right brush for the right job is key to achieving the best results.