Internal Wall Paints — Simple Choices That Work With Damp-Proofing

Solve moisture first, then use easy-clean paints for fresher, longer-lasting rooms across Dorset & Hampshire.

Common wall problems (and what they say about damp)

If paint keeps peeling, bubbling, or staining, the wall likely has a moisture problem—condensation, a small leak, or penetrating damp. Repainting without fixing the source only hides the issue for a few weeks.

Quick clues it’s damp, not just old paint:

Bubbling/flaking, salty powder, or dark patches that grow after rain.
Black mould in corners, ceilings, or behind furniture.
Cold walls and heavy condensation after showers or cooking.

Paint that supports the cure (not replaces it)

Use paint as the finish, not the fix. Pair your choice with the right damp solution—ventilation for condensation, repairs for leaks, and proper damp-proofing for water ingress.

Simple picks that play nicely with damp control:

Wipe-clean matt/eggshell for busy rooms—easy to maintain once moisture is under control.
Kitchen/Bathroom paint in steamy areas—resists surface mould while ventilation does the heavy lifting.
Light, calm colours in small or north-facing rooms to brighten once walls are dry and sound.

No-Stress Painting Routine That Protects Your Damp Fixes

Tackle moisture first—improve airflow, repair leaks, or book a damp survey if patches keep returning. Once walls are dry, do quick prep: clean, fill small cracks, sand lightly, spot-prime stains, then apply two thin coats for an even finish.
If you’ve had damp treated—external repairs, ventilation upgrades, or tanking—follow the contractor’s dry-down period before painting to protect your new finish and any warranty.
Proofterior doesn’t just paint; we solve the moisture that ruins paintwork, make-good neatly, and deliver long-lasting results across Dorset & Hampshire (Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will paint fix damp on internal walls?

No—internal wall paint is a finish, not a damp cure. If you see bubbling, peeling, or dark patches, you likely need damp proofing or condensation control first, then repaint. Proofterior can carry out a quick damp survey in Dorset & Hampshire to fix the root cause before we apply a long-lasting finish.

Persistent peeling usually points to hidden moisture from condensation, minor leaks, or penetrating damp. Until the wall is dry and sound, fresh coats won’t adhere. We diagnose moisture sources, make-good, then use the right internal wall paint system so the finish lasts.

Current UK building regulations recommend around 270mm of insulation for maximum energy efficiency.

What’s the best paint for bathrooms and kitchens?

Choose a moisture-resistant bathroom or kitchen paint that’s wipe-clean and designed to resist surface mould. Pair it with good ventilation—openable windows and a working extractor fan—because paint helps the surface, while airflow tackles condensation. We can advise the best product for steamy rooms during your survey.

When should I call a professional instead of DIY?

If patches keep coming back, walls feel cold and damp, or mould reappears despite cleaning, get a professional damp survey and repaint plan. A pro handles moisture diagnosis, neat making-good, and a clean, durable finish—saving you repeat weekends and extra costs.