How to Paint Outside Brick on House: Essential Steps for a Long-Lasting Finish

Have you ever looked at your home’s exterior and felt it needed a fresh touch? Painting the outside brick can breathe new life into your space, making it look modern and inviting. But if you’re unsure how to tackle this project, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Understanding Exterior Brick

Exterior brick adds character to your home but needs attention before painting. You’ll discover both benefits and drawbacks of painting your exterior brick.

Benefits of Painting Exterior Brick

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Painting provides a fresh look. You can choose colors that match your style or make your home stand out.
• Increased Value: A well-painted exterior can boost your property’s value. Attractive homes often sell quicker.
• Protection: High-quality paint offers a layer of protection against weather, moisture, and dirt. This can extend the lifespan of your bricks.
• Customization: You can express your personality with colors and finishes. This customization helps differentiate your home from others in the neighborhood.

Drawbacks of Painting Exterior Brick

• Maintenance Challenges: Painted brick requires regular upkeep. You need to repaint every few years to maintain its appearance.
• Potential Damage: Using the wrong paint can trap moisture, causing damage to the brick. It’s vital to choose a breathable paint specially designed for masonry.
• Loss of Original Character: Painting can obscure the natural beauty of the brick. This can detract from the historical or architectural value of your home.
• Time-Consuming: The preparation and application process can be lengthy. You’ll need to clean, prime, and apply paint meticulously for the best results.

Preparing to Paint

Preparing the exterior brick before painting ensures a successful outcome. Proper preparation makes the painting process easier and leads to better results.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather these essential tools and materials before starting the project:

• Pressure washer: Cleans the brick surface effectively.
• Bricks cleaner or detergent: Removes dirt and stains.
• Scrub brushes: Helps scrub tough areas.
• Drop cloths: Protects surrounding areas from paint splatters.
• Masking tape: Covers edges to ensure clean lines.
• Primer: Prepares the brick surface for paint adherence.
• Exterior paint: Choose a high-quality, breathable paint formulated for masonry.
• Paintbrushes and rollers: Allows for smooth application.

Having these tools readily available streamlines your workflow.

Cleaning the Brick Surface

Cleaning the brick surface is crucial for paint adhesion. Follow these steps for a thorough clean:

1. Remove loose debris: Use a broom to sweep away loose dirt and cobwebs.
2. Apply cleaner: Use a brick cleaner or a mixture of water and detergent on the surface.
3. Scrub the surface: Use scrub brushes on stubborn stains or dirt.
4. Rinse with a pressure washer: Rinse thoroughly with a pressure washer to remove all cleaner and residues.
5. Allow it to dry: Let the surface dry completely for at least 24 hours before applying primer.

A clean surface ensures the paint adheres properly, providing a durable and attractive finish.

Choosing the Right Paint

Selecting the proper paint for exterior brick is crucial for achieving the best result. You want a product designed specifically for masonry, ensuring durability and resistance to weather elements.

Types of Paint Suitable for Brick

1. Acrylic Latex Paint: Acrylic latex paint is the most recommended option for exterior brick. It’s breathable and flexible, allowing moisture to escape while providing a solid, protective coating.
2. Masonry Paint: Masonry paint is formulated for use on brick, stone, and concrete surfaces. It provides excellent adhesion and is often water-repellent, making it a great choice for outdoor applications.
3. Elastomeric Coating: Elastomeric coatings offer exceptional water resistance and flexibility. They’re thicker than standard paints and fill in small cracks, making them ideal for older brick surfaces.

Color Selection Tips

1. Consider Your Home’s Style: Look at the architectural style of your home. Traditional homes may benefit from classic colors like beige, gray, or white, while modern houses can handle bolder hues like navy or charcoal.
2. Test Samples: Paint small sample patches on the brick. This helps you see how the color looks in different lighting conditions throughout the day.
3. Use Complementary Colors: Choose colors that enhance other elements of your home, like trim, doors, and landscaping. Aim for harmony rather than stark contrasts.
4. Think Long-Term: Select a color that won’t go out of style. Neutral tones often work well, as they adapt with changing trends and seasons.

The Painting Process

Painting exterior brick involves careful steps to ensure a lasting finish. Follow these detailed instructions for best results.

Priming the Brick

Priming the brick is essential for promoting adhesion and preventing moisture infiltration. Start with these steps:

1. Choose the Right Primer: Use a high-quality primer designed for masonry surfaces. Look for products labeled as suitable for exterior brick.
2. Apply the Primer: Use a paintbrush or roller to apply an even layer of primer. Focus on filling the pores and crevices of the brick.
3. Allow for Drying Time: Wait for the primer to dry completely, usually 24 hours, before applying paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.
4. Inspect the Surface: Check for any missed spots or uneven areas. Reapply primer in these spots if necessary.

Applying the Paint

Once the primer dries, you can move on to painting the brick. Success hinges on these practical steps:

1. Select Quality Paint: Opt for high-quality, exterior-grade paint suitable for masonry surfaces for durability and weather resistance.
2. Use the Right Tools: Use a paintbrush for mortar joints and detailed areas while a roller covers larger surfaces efficiently. Consider using a spray gun for a smooth finish.
3. Apply Uniform Coats: Start from the top down, applying paint evenly. Use a steady hand and don’t overload your brush or roller to avoid drips.
4. Allow Each Coat to Dry: Wait at least 24 hours between each coat. This ensures proper adhesion and longevity of the finish.
5. Inspect After Each Coat: Check for missed areas or inconsistencies after each application, addressing them as needed.

Following these painting steps prepares your brick siding for a refreshed and stylish look.

Maintenance After Painting

After painting your exterior brick, proper maintenance ensures the beauty and longevity of your work. Regular care keeps your home looking fresh and protects the investment you made in your property.

Cleaning and Touch-ups

Cleaning your painted brick should occur at least twice a year. Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge and a mild detergent mixed with water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the paint. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose to remove soap residue. For stubborn stains or mildew, a solution of vinegar and water proves effective.

Touch-ups are sometimes necessary, especially in high-traffic areas or where environmental elements might cause wear. Check the siding for chips or peeling paint regularly. For minor repairs, clean the area and apply a small amount of paint matching your existing color. Use a small brush for precision, ensuring a seamless blend with the surrounding brick.

Performing these maintenance tasks helps extend the lifespan of your painted brick surface and keeps your home looking great.

Conclusion

Painting the outside brick of your home can truly transform its appearance and boost curb appeal. By following the right steps and using quality materials you can achieve a beautiful finish that reflects your personal style. Remember that preparation is key to a successful project and maintaining your painted brick will keep it looking fresh for years to come.

With a little effort you can enjoy a stunning exterior that not only enhances your home’s character but also protects it from the elements. So grab your supplies and get started on this rewarding journey to a revitalized home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is painting exterior brick a good idea?

Painting exterior brick can enhance aesthetics and increase property value. It offers customization options and can protect against the elements. However, consider maintenance challenges and the possible loss of the brick’s original character before proceeding.

What tools do I need for painting brick?

Essential tools include a pressure washer, brick cleaner, scrub brushes, drop cloths, masking tape, primer, high-quality exterior paint, and paintbrushes or rollers. Proper tools ensure a smooth and effective painting process for brick surfaces.

How do I prepare brick for painting?

To prepare, clean the brick surface by removing debris, applying brick cleaner, scrubbing stains, rinsing with a pressure washer, and letting it dry for at least 24 hours. This ensures better paint adhesion and a long-lasting finish.

What type of paint should I use for exterior brick?

Use masonry-specific paint, such as acrylic latex, masonry paint, or elastomeric coatings. These are designed for durability and weather resistance, ensuring the longevity of your paint job on exterior brick.

How do I maintain painted brick?

Clean the painted brick surface at least twice a year using a soft-bristle brush and mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals. For stubborn stains, a vinegar and water solution works well. Regularly check for chips or peeling paint for timely touch-ups.