Basements, garages, and garden outbuildings tend to suffer from damp and condensation. These types of spaces are colder and less ventilated, meaning they're prone to trapped moisture and mould growth.
Using the right type of paint in these spaces is vital. Get it wrong, and the paint can make things worse, trapping damp inside walls which can cause peeling, flaking, and even damage to the walls themselves.
Naturally breathable paints are the best choice for these types of areas. They let moisture escape from the fabric of the building rather than trapping it, causing problems.
Why Plastic Based Paint Fails in Damp Spaces
Most modern paints are plastic based. Vinyl and acrylic emulsions form an impermeable seal over the wall, trapping any existing damp within the surface. When the wall cannot breathe, pressure builds, paint bubbles, and moisture eventually seeps through again.
This is particularly problematic in basements and outbuildings where the walls are often made of stone, brick, or lime plaster. These materials are naturally porous and rely on evaporation to stay dry. Once a non breathable coating is applied, damp and moisture issues worsen.
The best paint solution is to use a natural breathable paint that remains vapour open, allowing moisture to pass through the coating and evaporate gradually.
What is Breathable Paint?
A true breathable paint has high vapour permeability. This means that water vapour can travel through the paint surface rather than being trapped behind it.
Breathable paint is not an industry regulated term, so you can't rely on the paint name to determine true breathability. You should consult the data sheet for your paint of choice and check what Sd value the paint offers. The lower the Sd number, the better the breathability. A value below 0.5 m indicates that the paint allows moisture vapour to move freely through the wall.
Lime, silicate, and clay paints are naturally breathable because they are mineral based and contain only natural paint binders. They are also low in VOCs, helping to create a healthier indoor environment.
Choosing the Best Paint for Damp Basements and Outbuildings
Our breathable paint ranges are suitable for application to a wide range of substrates. Here's our top picks for basements and outbuildings.
For Damp or Musty Basements: Auro 327 Lime Paint
Auro 327 is a lime based paint that performs very well on cold, moisture prone walls. Its natural alkalinity helps prevent mould growth, and it provides a soft matt finish that lets the wall breathe fully.
It is best used on mineral surfaces such as lime plaster, stone, or unpainted brickwork. For previously painted or sealed walls, apply a coat of Auro 301 Lime Primer first to ensure good adhesion and breathability.
If your space has visible mould, clean first with Auro 412 Mould Eliminator and follow with Auro 413 mould growth retardant before applying your paint. This will ensure no mould spores are trapped inside your paintwork.
For Garages, Outbuildings, and Exterior Basement Walls
Earthborn Silicate Masonry Paint
Earthborn silicate masonry paint is a highly breathable, long lasting mineral paint suitable for interior and exterior use. It has a vapour resistance (Sd value) of just 0.06 m, making it one of the most breathable masonry paints available.
Earthborn Masonry Paint bonds with the underlying surface, forming a durable finish that becomes part of the wall rather than sitting on top of it. It is ideal for brick, stone, lime render, or other absorbent mineral surfaces.
Key features:
- Excellent breathability – allows moisture vapour to escape freely.
- Highly durable – typically lasts 15 to 20 years.
- Naturally resists mould and algae growth due to its high pH.
- Trace VOC content, making it a safer, eco-friendly option.
- Classic matt finish that does not yellow or fade.
For Dry or Lightly Used Storage Areas
Auro 321 Natural Emulsion
Auro 321 is a simple matt white emulsion for storage rooms, cellars, or pantries that are dry but cool. It is breathable, cost effective, and free from synthetic ingredients. The finish is easy to refresh when needed and creates a clean, natural look.
Earthborn Ecopro Matt Emulsion
Earthborn Ecopro Emulsion is a professional grade breathable emulsion with good coverage and minimal odour. It provides a smooth, wipeable surface ideal for light use areas. Both Auro 321 and Earthborn Ecopro help maintain natural humidity balance without sealing the wall.
For Utility Rooms and Regular Use Spaces
Auro 303 Silicate Paint
Auro 303 silicate paint is a durable mineral paint suitable for more frequently used areas such as workshops, utility rooms, or semi converted basements. It offers excellent breathability combined with a harder, more washable surface.
Like all silicate paints, it chemically bonds with the substrate, providing a long lasting finish that will not flake or peel. It is an excellent choice for homeowners wanting a breathable yet practical solution in damp prone environments.
See also: What is breathable paint? | Breathable exterior paint guide | Breathable paint for exterior wood | Best breathable paint for lime plaster
Breathable is Best
Damp basements need to breathe, sealing the walls with plastic based paints will just hide damp temporarily. Let moisture escape for long term durability and an end to musty cellars.
Need advice on your project? Contact us for advice from our team of expert paint enthusiasts.
Whether you are restoring a cellar, brightening a workshop, or repainting a garden shed, selecting the right breathable paint will help protect your building naturally and ensure it lasts for years to come.
