Top 10 Johnstone’s Paints to Protect Your Home from Damp in 2026

If you’re dealing with damp, paint choice suddenly becomes a serious decision.

It’s no longer about shade charts or finishes. It’s about stopping moisture from creeping back through your walls. It’s about keeping mould from returning. And it’s about making sure the work you put in actually lasts.

Johnstones paints stand out because they’re built for real conditions, not perfect ones. Many of its paints are formulated to cope with moisture-heavy environments, frequent temperature changes, and the kind of condensation common in UK homes. They adhere well to problem surfaces, dry evenly, and hold up in rooms where cheaper paints tend to fail.

That’s why decorators, builders, and homeowners across the UK keep coming back to the brand. Not because it’s flashy, but because it works when damp is part of the picture.

In this guide, we break down the top 10 Johnstones paints for protecting your home from damp in 2026. Each pick is chosen for its ability to resist moisture, reduce mould risk, and stay looking decent long after application. If you want paint that does more than cover a wall, you’re in the right place.

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Top 10 Best Johnstone’s Paints in the UK Compared

1. Johnstone’s Bathroom Mid Sheen Paint – Use in Moist & Damp Areas 2.5L

If your bathroom walls look like they are constantly sweating, you need a finish that actually fights back. This Johnstone’s Bathroom Mid Sheen Paint is specifically made for those high-moisture spots where standard emulsion just peels away. It creates a tough, wipeable barrier that handles steam and heavy condensation without soaking it in.

Because it is a water-based acrylic, it doesn’t have that eye-watering chemical smell. You can slap a coat on and have the room back in action quickly. It is a solid choice for kitchens too, especially if you have a poorly ventilated space prone to damp patches.

Key Features

• Moisture Resistant Formula: Specifically built to withstand high condensation levels and prevent water from soaking into the plaster.
• Quick Drying: Surfaces are touch-dry in just 1 to 2 hours, making it easy to finish the job in one day.
• Stain Blocker Technology: Helps seal in and cover existing marks, keeping your walls looking cleaner for much longer.
• High Coverage: Offers an impressive 12m² per litre, so a single 2.5L tin goes quite a long way.
• Low Odour Acrylic: Very faint scent during application, which is great for small, enclosed bathrooms without big windows.

Pros

• Resists grease and moisture, making it very easy to wipe clean.
• The mid-sheen finish reflects light well in smaller, darker rooms.
• Stays white and fresh even in damp, humid environments.
• Easy to apply with either a brush or a medium pile roller.

Cons

• Requires thorough surface prep if you are painting over old, flaky, damp spots.
• The mid-sheen can highlight bumps in the wall more than a flat matte would.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Bathroom Mid Sheen Paint

We suggest this because it provides durable protection in the wettest parts of your home. It stops damp from ruining your decor while remaining easy to clean.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Bathroom Mid Sheen Paint – Use in Moist & Damp Areas 2.5L

2. Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml

If you have a persistent wet patch that keeps ruining your wallpaper or emulsion, this tin is the specialist you need. Unlike the Johnstone’s Bathroom Paint Brilliant White we just looked at, which manages condensation, this formula is a heavy-duty sealer for internal walls.

It’s a high-opacity “problem solver” designed to grab onto tricky surfaces like brick, stone, and plaster. It creates a thick, protective barrier that stops dampness from seeping through and staining your final decorative layer. It’s the ultimate insurance policy for old masonry or chimney breasts that tend to hold onto moisture.

Key Features

• Heavy-Duty Sealing: Formulated specifically to safeguard against moisture migrating through your plaster and brickwork.
• Surface Versatility: Grips perfectly to porous materials, including cement, stone, and traditional brick.
• Stain Blocking: Its high-opacity finish ensures that dark, damp-related discolouration doesn’t ghost through your topcoat.
• Multi-Surface Application: Can be used as a standalone sealer or as a base before applying your preferred Johnstone’s emulsion.
• Damp Tolerant: Can be applied to surfaces that are slightly damp to the touch, which is a lifesaver in poorly heated rooms.

Pros

• Provides a rock-solid foundation that prevents future decoration failure.
• Much thicker than standard paint, offering superior coverage on uneven masonry.
• Works effectively on internal walls where external damp issues have been addressed.
• Easy to apply with a brush or roller despite its heavy consistency.

Cons

• Takes much longer to dry than water-based options, needing up to 16 hours.
• The coverage rate is lower because the product is designed to be applied thickly.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml

This is the go-to fix for problem walls. It offers a professional-level barrier that ensures your decorating efforts aren’t wasted by creeping moisture.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml

3. Johnstones Paint to Cover Damp – White 2.5L

If you have more than just a tiny corner of moisture to deal with, this larger Johnstone’s Paint to Cover Damp – White 2.5L tin is the way to go. It is essentially the big brother to the smaller tins we looked at earlier, offering the same heavy-duty sealing power for bigger projects.

This isn’t your average primer; it is a thick “problem solver” that stops water marks from bleeding through your beautiful new wallpaper or emulsion. It works wonders on cold, porous surfaces like stone and cement that tend to hold onto moisture.

Key Features

• Large Project Capacity: This 2.5-litre tin provides enough coverage for entire sections of affected walls or multiple problem areas.
• Direct Application: You can apply this paint directly onto surfaces that are still slightly damp to the touch without it peeling off.
• Superior Sealing: Forms a tough barrier that traps stains, preventing them from ruining your final decorative topcoat.
• Multi-Surface Compatibility: Sticks firmly to tricky interior materials, including plaster, brickwork, stone, and even cement.
• High Opacity: The thick consistency ensures that even the darkest, most unsightly water stains are hidden.

Pros

• Perfect for renovating older buildings where damp patches are a recurring issue.
• Provides a much more substantial seal than standard primers.
• Can be over-coated with any Johnstone’s emulsion once fully cured.
• Saves money in the long run by preventing stains from resurfacing.

Cons

• The 14 to 16-hour drying time means you have to be patient before finishing.
• It is quite a heavy, thick liquid, so you’ll need a bit of effort to spread it evenly.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Paint to Cover Damp – White 2.5L

We suggest this because it is the most cost-effective size for tackling significant moisture issues. It gives you peace of mind that your work won’t be undone.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Paint to Cover Damp – White 2.5L

4. Johnstones Specialty Paints Damp Proof Paint White 750ml

While we’ve looked at standard sealers, this Johnstones Specialty Paints Damp Proof Paint White 750ml is a slightly different beast. It’s a matte-finish liquid that focuses heavily on blocking the smells and stains that come with trapped moisture.

If you’ve ever walked into a spare room or a cellar and noticed that distinct, earthy, damp scent, this is the paint you want on your team. It’s designed to settle into the pores of your walls and act as a permanent barricade. It’s a compact tin, making it perfect for those annoying corners where condensation always seems to settle first.

Key Features

• Odour Blocking Technology: Specifically targets and neutralises the musty smells associated with damp walls.
• Water Resistant Barrier: Creates a tough shield that prevents liquid water from penetrating through the surface.
• Matte Finish: Unlike glossier sealers, this provides a flat look that hides wall imperfections more effectively.
• Specialist Formula: Designed for interior use on surfaces that are prone to recurring moisture issues.
• Compact Size: The 750ml tin is easy to handle and ideal for targeted “spot” treatments on problem areas.

Pros

• Excellent at stopping “damp-smell” from permeating through your living space.
• The matte texture makes it much easier to blend in if you aren’t overcoating immediately.
• Very effective on masonry and plaster that has suffered from previous leaks.
• Provides a professional-grade seal that standard emulsions can’t match.

Cons

• It carries a premium price tag per litre compared to the larger bulk tins.
• Coverage is more limited, so you’ll need multiple tins for a full wall.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Specialty Paints Damp Proof Paint White 750ml

This is a fantastic choice if the smell of damp is as big a problem as the stain itself. It offers a cleaner, more breathable atmosphere.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstones Specialty Paints Damp Proof Paint White 750ml

Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with Harris Brush Set

Sometimes you just want to get the job done without hunting around for extra tools. This bundle pairs the Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with a full set of Harris Essentials brushes. It’s a smart choice for tackling those awkward corners or cutting in around light switches where moisture often leaves its mark. The paint itself is the same high-opacity sealer we’ve seen before, designed to stop damp from bleeding through your topcoat. Having the different brush sizes on hand means you can reach into every nook of a brick or stone wall easily.

Key Features

• Complete Starter Kit: Includes 750ml of specialty damp-masking paint and five varied Harris brushes for immediate use.
• Specialist Sealing: The formula creates a robust barrier on plaster and cement to block moisture migration.
• Precision Tools: Comes with brushes ranging from 0.5″ to 2″, perfect for detailed work around sockets and skirting.
• Synthetic Filaments: The brushes are designed to hold onto the paint well, ensuring an even flow and a tidy finish.
• High Opacity: Effectively masks dark water stains, ensuring they don’t ruin your final decorative layer.

Pros

• Great value for money by combining the specialty sealer with a reliable toolset.
• Brushes are easy to clean under the tap, making them reusable for your final emulsion coat.
• Ideal for targeted repairs where you need to get into tight spaces or corners.
• The paint is damp-tolerant, so you can apply it to surfaces that aren’t perfectly dry.

Cons

• The 750ml tin is only enough for small to medium-sized patches, not full rooms.
• Still requires the standard 14–16 hour drying window before you can paint over it.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with Harris Brush Set

It’s the most convenient way to tackle damp repairs. You get a proven stain-blocker and the right tools to apply it neatly in one go.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with Harris Brush Set

5. Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml with Harris Brush Set

Sometimes you just want to get the job done without hunting around for extra tools. This bundle pairs the Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with a full set of Harris Essentials brushes. It’s a smart choice for tackling those awkward corners or cutting in around light switches where moisture often leaves its mark.

The paint itself is the same high-opacity sealer we’ve seen before, designed to stop damp from bleeding through your topcoat. Having the different brush sizes on hand means you can reach into every nook of a brick or stone wall easily.

Key Features

• Complete Starter Kit: Includes 750ml of specialty damp-masking paint and five varied Harris brushes for immediate use.
• Specialist Sealing: The formula creates a robust barrier on plaster and cement to block moisture migration.
• Precision Tools: Comes with brushes ranging from 0.5″ to 2″, perfect for detailed work around sockets and skirting.
• Synthetic Filaments: The brushes are designed to hold onto the paint well, ensuring an even flow and a tidy finish.
• High Opacity: Effectively masks dark water stains, ensuring they don’t ruin your final decorative layer.

Pros

• Great value for money by combining the specialty sealer with a reliable toolset.
• Brushes are easy to clean under the tap, making them reusable for your final emulsion coat.
• Ideal for targeted repairs where you need to get into tight spaces or corners.
• The paint is damp-tolerant, so you can apply it to surfaces that aren’t perfectly dry.

Cons

• The 750ml tin is only enough for small to medium-sized patches, not full rooms.
• Still requires the standard 14–16 hour drying window before you can paint over it.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml with Harris Brush Set

It’s the most convenient way to tackle damp repairs. You get a proven stain-blocker and the right tools to apply it neatly in one go.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White, 750ml with Harris Brush Set

6. Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White 750ml & Harris Seriously Good Brushes

Sometimes a basic brush just doesn’t cut it, especially when you’re working with a thick, specialist sealer. This bundle pairs the reliable Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White with the Harris “Seriously Good” range. Unlike the Harris Essentials pack of five we saw earlier, these brushes feature no-loss bristles.

This means you won’t spend your afternoon picking stray hairs out of your damp-proof barrier. The paint itself is a heavy-duty “problem solver” that grabs onto plaster, brick, and stone to stop moisture from ruining your topcoat. It’s the perfect duo for a cleaner, more professional-looking repair.

Key Features

• No-Loss Bristle Tech: Harris brushes ensure no filaments end up stuck in your paint for a smoother finish.
• Specialist Sealing: The Johnstone’s formula blocks deep moisture stains from brickwork, stone, and cement.
• Premium Synthetic Blend: These brushes hold more paint and offer better control than the entry-level options.
• High-Opacity Finish: Effectively masks dark watermarks so they don’t ghost through your final emulsion.
• Ergonomic Handles: Designed for comfort, making it easier to work into those awkward damp corners.

Pros

• Superior paint flow and a cleaner finish compared to the basic Harris Essentials kit.
• The 750ml tin is perfect for targeted spot-repairs on chimney breasts or window reveals.
• Brushes are much easier to clean and retain their shape better for future decorating.
• Provides a rock-solid, waterproof barrier once the 16-hour cure time is complete.

Cons

• You get three brushes here, whereas the previous bundle offered a more variety-heavy pack of five.
• The higher quality tools mean a slightly higher price per item compared to the budget range.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White & Harris Seriously Good Brushes

It’s the best way to handle tricky damp patches without the frustration of shedding brushes. You get a high-quality seal and tools that actually last.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp White 750ML & Harris Seriously Good Brushes

7. Johnstone’s Paint to Block Stains – White 750ml

While our previous picks like the Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp focus on sealing out moisture, this tin is the ultimate specialist for the aftermath. Damp often leaves behind nasty yellow or brown rings that even the most expensive emulsion can’t hide. This Johnstone’s Paint to Block Stains is a high-opacity matt coating that permanently locks those marks away.

It’s a “problem solver” in every sense, designed to sit under your final coat so that old water damage stays hidden for good. Whether it’s a ceiling stain from an old leak or soot marks, this provides the clean slate you need.

Key Features

• Ultimate Stain Blocking: Specifically engineered to eliminate and cover tough stains like water rings, soot, and nicotine.
• Matt Finish: Dries to a flat finish that is easy to overcoat with any standard Johnstone’s emulsion.
• Exceptional Coverage: A single 750ml tin covers roughly 8 square metres, making it perfect for several ceiling patches.
• Multi-Surface Adhesion: Works effectively on a variety of interior surfaces including plaster and even tricky asphalt-based materials.
• High Opacity: Thick enough to hide dark discolouration in fewer coats than standard primers.

Pros

• Prevents the frustration of stains “bleeding through” fresh paint weeks after you’ve finished.
• Much more effective than standard white paint for hiding deep-set water damage.
• Small, manageable tin size is perfect for targeted repairs without much waste.
• Dries quickly enough to allow you to get your topcoat on within the same project window.

Cons

• Not a substitute for fixing the source of the damp; it’s strictly for masking the resulting marks.
• The consistency is quite thick, so you’ll want to avoid overspreading to keep the opacity high.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Paint to Block Stains – White 750ml

It’s the final piece of the puzzle for damp repair. It ensures that once you’ve sealed the wall, the visual evidence of the problem is gone forever.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Paint to Block Stains – White 750ml

8. Johnstone’s Trade StainAway Matt 2.5L

If you’re dealing with a large room that’s been battered by moisture, the smaller 750ml Johnstone’s Paint to Block Stains might not be enough. This 2.5L tin of Johnstone’s Trade StainAway Matt is the heavy hitter of the range.

It uses advanced Stain Blocking Technology to isolate and permanently hide those stubborn yellow water rings, smoke damage, and even nicotine marks. Unlike basic retail primers, this trade-grade formula is designed to do the job in just one coat. It’s a massive time-saver for ceilings and walls that look like a lost cause after a damp breakout.

Key Features

• One-Coat Coverage: Highly concentrated formula designed to obliterate persistent stains without needing multiple passes.
• Rapid Recoat Time: Touch dry in just an hour and ready for a second coat (if needed) or topcoat in four hours.
• Broad Substrate Use: Grips perfectly to plasterboard, concrete, brickwork, and even old wallcoverings or ceiling tiles.
• Smooth Matt Finish: Provides a professional, non-reflective surface that hides bumps and patches on uneven walls.
• Water-Based Convenience: Offers trade-level performance without the harsh fumes or difficult cleanup of oil-based sealers.

Pros

• Isolate persistent stains permanently so they don’t migrate into your final decorative layer.
• Massive coverage of up to 11 square metres per litre, making it very cost-effective for big projects.
• Perfect for large-scale renovations where smoke or heavy water damage is present across multiple walls.
• High customer satisfaction rating, specifically noted for being an item that users rarely return.

Cons

• This Johnstone’s paint has a more significant upfront investment compared to the smaller DIY-specific tins.
• While it blocks stains, it isn’t a waterproof membrane for active, running leaks.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Trade StainAway Matt 2.5L

It is the ultimate professional choice for restoring damp-damaged interiors. This paint gives you a clean, white, matt slate on even the most neglected surfaces.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Trade StainAway Matt 2.5L

9. Johnstone’s Washable Paint Pure Brilliant White – 2.5L

Once you’ve used Johnstone’s Trade StainAway to kill off those ugly, damp marks, you need a topcoat that actually stands up to real life. This Johnstone’s Washable Paint Pure Brilliant White is a tough-as-nails emulsion designed for high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens. It’s significantly more durable than standard matte paints.

If you get a splash of coffee or a muddy scuff, you can just wipe it away without the paint coming off on your cloth. It provides a rich, flat finish that hides wall bumps while keeping your home looking fresh for longer.

Key Features

• Scrub Resistant: Specifically formulated so you can scrub away stains and grime without damaging the paint film.
• High Durability: Part of the “Tough Paint” range, making it ideal for busy spots like stairways and kids’ bedrooms.
• Stain Resistant: Actively resists food, drink, and household marks from sinking into the surface.
• Fast Drying: Becomes touch-dry in just 1–2 hours, so you can finish a room in a single day.
• Non-Toxic & Low Odour: A water-based solution that is much kinder to your breathing air during application.

Pros

• Offers a massive 30 square metres of coverage per tin, making it great value for larger rooms.
• The flat matte finish is perfect for disguising imperfections on older, uneven plaster.
• Very easy to apply with a roller or brush with minimal splatter.
• Stays bright white even in rooms that get a lot of daily use.

Cons

• Requires a well-prepped surface to ensure the “washable” tech bonds properly.
• You might need two coats for full opacity if you are covering a very dark previous colour.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Washable Paint Pure Brilliant White

It’s the perfect final step for any damp-repair project. It combines a beautiful modern look with the strength needed to handle a busy household.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Washable Paint Pure Brilliant White – 2.5L

110. Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard Satin Paint -1L

When you’re finishing off a damp-proofing project, the last thing you want is for your woodwork to let the side down. This Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard Satin Paint is a professional-grade solution that’s built for the busiest parts of your home. It uses a clever surface protection technology that acts like a shield against scratches and greasy fingerprints.

Unlike the Johnstone’s Wood & Metal Quick Dry Gloss we saw earlier, this offers a more subtle, contemporary satin sheen that’s incredibly tough. It’s a water-based formula that dries quickly, making it a great choice for refreshing window frames or skirting boards in rooms prone to moisture.

Key Features

• Surface Protection Tech: Provides a high level of defence against everyday wear, tear, and greasy marks.
• Exceptional Hiding Power: Offers great opacity that covers previous colours or stains with fewer coats.
• Long-Lasting Whiteness: Specifically formulated to stay “Brilliant White” without yellowing over time.
• Durable Satin Finish: Dries to a tough, mid-sheen look that is both stylish and resilient.
• Quick Recovery Time: Touch dry in just 1–2 hours and ready for another coat after four hours.

Pros

• This Johnstone’s paint is resistant to the typical scuffs and scratches found in high-traffic hallways.
• Much easier to apply than traditional oil-based paints while offering similar durability.
• Perfect for interior window frames that might occasionally deal with condensation.
• Low odour makes it far more pleasant for painting in confined indoor spaces.

Cons

• The above Johnstone’s paint requires a bit more precision during application to avoid visible brush marks.
• The higher trade-quality performance comes with a slightly more premium price point.

Why we recommend Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard Satin Paint – 1L

It provides the ultimate professional finish for interior wood. It’s the perfect companion to our previous washable wall paints for a fully protected room.

Check prices on Amazon: Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard Satin Paint – 1L

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Johnstone’s Paint for Damp Problems

Finding a patch of damp is never a highlight of home ownership. It’s tempting to just grab the first white tin you see and hope for the best. However, as we’ve seen with the previous Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard, using a specialist product for a specific problem makes all the difference. Not all damp is the same, and neither is the paint.

Identify the Type of Damp

Before you spend a penny, you need to know what you’re fighting. Is it condensation from a steamy shower, or is it moisture pushing through the brickwork? For bathrooms and kitchens, you want something like Johnstone’s Bathroom Paint which breathes and resists surface moisture. If the damp is coming from inside the wall itself, you’ll need a sealer like Johnstone’s 307955 Paint to Cover Damp to act as a physical barrier.

Consider the Finish

The look matters just as much as the protection. Gloss and satin finishes, like those found in the Johnstone’s Wood & Metal range, are naturally more water-resistant and easier to wipe down. For walls, a matt finish like Johnstone’s Washable Paint is great for hiding lumps and bumps in old plaster, but it still gives you the ability to scrub away marks without ruining the job.

Preparation is Everything

You can buy the best paint in the world, but if you slap it over loose, flaking plaster, it won’t stay there. Make sure the surface is clean and as dry as possible. Using a bundle that includes Harris Seriously Good Brushes ensures you get the paint into every nook and cranny of the masonry. Always fix the root cause—like a leaky pipe or a blocked gutter—before you reach for the brush.

Coverage and Value

Check the coverage rates on the tin. A 750ml tin is perfect for a quick repair on a chimney breast, but for a whole room, the 2.5L Johnstone’s Trade StainAway is much more cost-effective. Investing in trade-grade products often means you only need one or two coats rather than three, saving you a massive amount of time and effort in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing the right finish shouldn’t feel like a gamble when your home’s health is on the line. Throughout this guide, we’ve seen how Johnstone’s Specialty Paints provide a targeted fix for every moisture-related headache.

Whether you are sealing a stubborn patch with a 307955 sealer or refreshing a steamy bathroom with a durable mid-sheen, the brand delivers professional results that actually last. By picking the correct formula for your specific damp issue, you ensure your hard work won’t just peel away next season. It is time to stop masking the problem and start protecting your walls for good.

Best Johnstone’s Paint for Damp: FAQs Answered