What Vertical Masonry Wall Patch Should I Be Using?
Applying an exterior vertical wall patch is a simple application process, but using the correct product is important to the proper execution of the job. A typical wall surface profile can be broken down by texture: smooth, semi-textured, or textured. Generally, the applicator will attempt to choose a patch that coordinates to the texture of the wall to create a homogenous appearance of the final product. Most masonry patches state the texture level on the label, but it is always useful to confirm this with a store employee before it is applied. After the texture level is chosen, the next step is to select the workability of the product. The workability of vertical wall patches can be broken down into two categories: knife grade or brush grade. A knife grade patch is a more rigid product making it necessary to use a less flexible tool such as a putty knife when applying. This patch is used to fill in wide cracks and holes due to its ability to hold its body and prevent sagging. If any holes are too large, it may be necessary to fill them stucco and finish over them with a brush grade patch. The same concept applies to larger cracks as you may need to fill them with a urethane caulk such as Vulkem and finish over them with a brush grade patch. A brush grade patch is more workable than the knife grade allowing it to be brushed on to the surface with a paint brush. Usually, these patches are used to cover up hairline cracks as well as imperfections left after prep work is complete. Most vertical wall patch applications will take place on a cementitious surface, but if they are applied to a wood surface, the product must be sandable. The dry time of masonry patch depends on the application thickness and weather conditions the product is applied in. The rule of thumb is to wait six hours after application in direct sunlight before applying any paint over the patch. Like preparation before painting, we always recommend pressure cleaning and sealing the surface before the patch is applied to ensure the product has a suitable surface to adhere to. Acrylux carries three exterior patches: Flex 50 Smooth Knife Grade Patch, Textured Knife Grade Patch, Textured Brush Grade Patch, and Semi-Smooth Fibered Patch. Although the application process for Masonry Patch is relatively simple, we always ensure that our customers are using the right product for the right situation!
Picture of Brush Grade textured Patch
Picture of Brush Grade Textured Patch being applied
Picture of a wall after a crack is repaired
Picture of knife grade textured patch