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Carey on Cozumel

Jun 8, 2002, 7:16 PM

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Thompson's Water Seal?

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I have painted my houses with a substance called mapla which looks sort of like gooey plaster but can be colored in any fashion one wishes and applied in a variety of textures. It is applied by a mason and is reputed to last 15 years or longer -- far longer than the most expensive and applied paint. I have talked with people who used it 10 years ago, examined their walls and feel sure this was a long term money=-saving investment.However, it's not getting rid of the mildew problem, of course. Where my palapas drain on the southeast corner wall, the black stuff builds up fast and looks unslightly. Esteban mentioned Thompson's water seal in another topic re my ugly looking tile flooring and it reminded me that someone suggested that a coating of this stuff would do a world of good for preventing mildew on my walls.I am very skeptical. Wouldn't just keeping up on the scrubbing with waterdown bleach or pressure hosing work just as well and cost a lot less? And what happens when the sealer starts to fail?I am willing to keep an open mind about this but as you can see I have my prejudices. Anyone have good solid experience with this stuff on maplaed plaster walls that has had good success with it.All replies would be vastly appreciated. And if I don't get back right away to read them and comment, it's because the wretch internet connection went out AGAIN. (DSL has reached the island at $500 pesos/month plus the $3000 modem yo have to buy so perhaps things are looking up.)Thanks in advance for any input!Carey on Cozumel

Earl

Jun 9, 2002, 9:53 AM

Post #2 of 4 (13025 views)

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Thompson's Water Seal?

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If you are a member of Consumer Reports you can
find their report on sealers. Esentially it says
the best sealers when exposed to sun, rain, etc.
are only good for four years and most are only
good for two years. There are only two that are
in the best category and the one you mention isn't
one of them.Hope this helps.

Esteban

Jun 9, 2002, 8:49 PM

Post #3 of 4 (13025 views)

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Thompson's Water Seal?

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There are chemicals that can be put into paints that inhibit mold growth as well as UV inhibitors although I don't know the names of them. Standard oil used to make a "shake" oil that had both. You might try zinc flashing strips which when wet, will leach out a chemical that kills things that grow.

shawn

Jun 15, 2002, 9:52 AM

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zinc strips

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: i use the zinc strips on my roof in the seattle area [where moss growth on roofs is a problem] The strips work great -- after seven years they are still very effective. There are chemicals that can be put into paints that inhibit mold growth as well as UV inhibitors although I don't know the names of them. Standard oil used to make a "shake" oil that had both. You might try zinc flashing strips which when wet, will leach out a chemical that kills things that grow.