A method of applying a hydrophobic film to a surface, the method comprising the steps of (a) optionally modifying particles to be coated on the surface so as to form functional groups thereon; (b) applying particles having functional groups thereon to the surface to be coated; and (c) treating the applied particles such that the particles are bound together and to the surface by chemical cross-linking of the functional groups on the particles. The method may further include the addition of a non-silicone polymer to the particles prior to step (b) to assist in the formation of the film.
