Resene Product of the Month – Resene AquaShield

21 Jan 2026

Resene AquaShield is a high-mineral-content, super-hydrophobic coating offering excellent coverage. It combines the water-repellent properties of silicones with a special surface microstructure, which considerably reduces the contact area for water and dirt. The result: dirt particles adhere lightly and are more easily carried away by rain.

When applied, Resene AquaShield imparts a dead flat finish that is ideal for a contemporary aesthetic or equally, a classic look that is sympathetic to concrete plasters and exterior renders typically found on period architecture such as art deco-, Santa Fe- and Mediterranean-style homes, as well as heritage buildings, such as Auckland’s Art Gallery, which has recently undergone a $30m restoration.

“Working closely with the project architects, we specified AquaShield for the Art Gallery refurbishment because its stunning flat mineral effect finish looks fantastic on plaster. Designed in the French-Renaissance style and completed in 1887, the Art Gallery is an iconic Auckland building that was a perfect match for the unique qualities of AquaShield,” says Rob Mountford, Resene National Specification & Technical Sales Support Manager.

Formulated to provide excellent weather resistance, as with most waterborne finishes, Resene AquaShield also allows buildings to 'breathe', meaning water vapour from inside can permeate the paint film and pass through to the exterior, helping maintain a more constant equilibrium.

Suitable for use on a range of substrates, including concrete, brick, natural stone, fibrous cement and stucco, Resene AquaShield is ideal for highly stressed weather-exposed facades and can be applied via brush, roller or spray application. Use with Resene Lumbersider (see Data Sheet D34) or Resene Sonyx 101 (see Data Sheet D30) for foundations or other high-wear areas.

For a full list of specifications and application instructions, click here.

Opened in 1887, the Auckland Art Gallery has recently undergone a $30m restoration, which included an exterior treatment of Resene AquaShield.

As part of ongoing restoration works to ensure the Auckland Ferry Building continues to be a source of local pride in years to come, the building received two coats of Resene AquaShield during the 2010 upgrades to the ferry terminal. Image - Shutterstock.

Published: 21 Jan 2026