Painting Brick Houses: A Comprehensive Guide

Painting a brick house can transform its appearance dramatically. Brick, known for its durability and classic look, can become even more appealing with the right color. Before painting brick, understanding the nuances and challenges is crucial. This guide outlines every step, from preparation to selecting the perfect paint, ensuring your brick house gets the makeover it deserves.

Why Paint Brick?

Brick offers a natural, timeless aesthetic, but sometimes it needs a refresh. Painting brick allows homeowners to modernize their home’s appearance. Painted brick can add curb appeal, increase market value, and offer protection from the elements. Unlike unsealed brick, painted brick doesn’t absorb water, reducing the risk of interior wall leaks.

Considerations Before You Start

• Check Brick Condition: Ensure your brick is in good condition. Cracks and crumbling bricks need repair before painting.
• Climate: Balance your decision to paint with your local climate. Extreme weather can affect paint longevity.
• Maintenance: Painted brick will require maintenance. Unlike natural brick, paint may peel and fade over time.

Preparation Steps

Preparation is essential for a long-lasting paint job. Start by cleaning the brick thoroughly. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, mold, and moss. Wait for the brick to dry completely, which may take several days, depending on the weather.

Cleaning Solution: For stubborn stains, a mix of water and trisodium phosphate (TSP) is effective. Scrub with a stiff bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly.

Repair Work: Inspect for damaged mortar joints and repair them. Allow repairs to cure for at least a week before painting.

Choosing the Right Paint

High-quality paint specifically formulated for masonry or brick is vital. These paints offer better adhesion, breathability, and weather resistance. You can choose between silicate mineral paint and acrylic latex paint.

• Silicate Mineral Paint: Penetrates and bonds with brick, offering a natural look. Ideal for a long-lasting finish.
• Acrylic Latex Paint: More flexible and easier to apply. Provides vibrant colors and a smooth finish.

The Painting Process

Start with a primer if using acrylic latex paint. It ensures better adhesion and coverage. Use a high-quality, exterior-grade primer. Apply with a brush or roller, ensuring an even coat.

Once the primer dries, apply the topcoat. Begin with the edges and corners using a brush, then switch to a roller for larger surfaces. Use even strokes and apply two coats for full coverage.

Tools You Will Need

• Pressure Washer: Essential for cleaning the brick thoroughly.
• Brushes and Rollers: For corners and large surfaces. Opt for brushes with synthetic bristles for latex paint.
• High-Quality Primer and Paint: Critical for a durable finish.
• Painter’s Tape: Protect windows and adjacent surfaces to ensure clean lines.
• Drop Cloths: Protect landscaping and ground areas from paint drips.

Color Selection Tips

Choose colors that enhance architectural features of the house. Neutral colors often provide a timeless look. White, gray, and beige are popular choices. For a bold statement, consider deeper shades like navy or dark green. Keep the surroundings in mind, including other homes and natural elements.

Maintaining Painted Brick

Regular maintenance will extend the life of your painted brick. Inspect annually for any chips or peeling paint. Touch up areas as needed to prevent further damage. Clean the surface occasionally with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt buildup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Primer: Reduces paint adhesion and coverage.
• Painting Wet Brick: Can lead to bubbling and peeling paint.
• Inadequate Cleaning: Trapped dirt can affect paint adherence and longevity.

Understanding these details ensures a successful brick painting project. With careful preparation, right material choice, and thorough application, painting a brick house can be a rewarding endeavor. Transform your home’s exterior, increase its charm, and protect your investment all in one go.