Invisible protection for visible results

Even the strongest, most robust materials lose their luster over time - literally and figuratively. Rain, frost and pollution get stuck in the pores and affect both appearance and durability. The solution? NanoSkin. Not a layer of varnish or glossy film, but an innovative, transparent coating that protects the material from the inside out.

Stijn Devleesschauwer and Gregory Symons, directors/founders of NanoSkin, know what they are talking about. Together, they are building on a clear mission: to protect porous surfaces sustainably with smart, user-friendly products. "We are not aiming for the classic façade sealer that puts a film over the stone," Symons explains. "NanoSkin Stone & Concrete penetrates deep into the structure and makes the surface water repellent. So you preserve the natural look of the material, while at the same time preventing water, dirt or frost from penetrating."

The result? Less moss formation, less damage and lower maintenance costs. Thanks to its extremely hydrophobic properties - with a contact angle of up to 145° - water beads off immediately, just like on a lotus leaf. Dirt and moisture therefore hardly have a chance to settle. Ideal for facades, concrete structures, bricks, fiber cement or other porous elements that need to remain beautiful and intact for a long time.

Coating without compromise

NanoSkin Stone & Concrete is a transparent, optically neutral water-based coating, completely free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The material remains breathable and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Environmentally friendly, therefore, but also aesthetically discreet. "We deliberately make the distinction between protection and finishing," explains Devleesschauwer. "Our coating does not change the appearance of the material. No gloss, no film, no discoloration - only protection. And that is precisely what makes it so interesting for architects and clients: a solution that works, without standing out."

Application is also particularly user-friendly. The product is sprayed in one layer via an HVLP spray or airless, without rinsing. The drying time is standard 24 hours, but - for professional applications - can be accelerated with ventilation or IR emitters. "No complicated procedures, no harmful fumes," Symons emphasizes. "NanoSkin is safe to use as well as friendly to the environment." Moreover, the consumption is remarkably low: depending on the porosity of the surface, 70 to 100 ml per m² suffices. An efficient application that perfectly matches the sustainable nature of the product.

Tested, compared and proven

NanoSkin is not easily compared to classic hydrofuge products. In an independent comparison - conducted in 2020 - NanoSkin was found to remain performant significantly longer than competing systems. "We deliberately choose a SiO₂-based technology with an action at the molecular level," says Devleesschauwer. "These provide much stronger adhesion to the surface as well as a deeper penetrating effect. As a result, the effect on the surface remains active much longer, even under extreme conditions." 

The coating is also resistant in an alkaline environment, which is essential with concrete. "We have projects underway in residential high-rise, commercial and industrial developments, where the combination of moisture and exhaust fumes quickly create contamination. Our products are perfectly suited there."

Flemish innovation with international ambitions

All development and production are done in-house (Merchtem, BE). "We opt for control over the entire chain. That makes us agile, and ensures that we can respond quickly to new needs in the market," says Devleesschauwer. The company is also making its presence felt internationally. For example, there are applications in the Netherlands (HQ ASML, Hotel Efteling, etc.), France, the US and Canada, and distribution throughout Europe is underway. "Our technology is proving itself everywhere where concrete and stone need sustainable protection. And that - fortunately for us - is just about everywhere," Symons concludes.