Paint can transform almost any surface at home, allowing you to change the look of an area without requiring total renovation, which is the case for many painted brick homes.
Painting the exterior wall has always been the subject of many DIY projects. Easily customizable with less cost. But with brick walls, it seems different. Yes, painted brick houses are making a trend recently, but there is a lot of decision-making involved before proceeding with this seemingly life-changing project.
Is painting brick better?
Brick in itself has an undeniable charm for exterior design. But is painting over it a good idea? Some homeowners find it very appealing, and they usually do out for these reasons:
- Painting over the brick is always a welcoming part of the exterior design when done right.
- Raw bricks are naturally porous, trapping hard-to-clean dirt and other debris over time. But painted brick has that smoother finish which is easier to clean.
- Painted brick reduces the deterioration of your exterior design, extending the life and overall beauty.
- Finally, the paint on the brick naturally becomes a sealant that can protect your house from harsh environments or weather conditions.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Painting Brick
house painter from behind paints brick wall
Naturally, brick comes in different colors, making it a perfect thing for DIY projects. However, for some homeowners, DIY is challenging and time-consuming. If you are one of those who opt for a DIY and plan on painting over your brick, here are some tips to help you out.
Choose the right paint and primer intended for brick.
Brick has a naturally porous texture. So, choosing the right paint/primers is vital. If the wrong primer is used it may peel. it may require extra coats to seal and cover the existing brick surface. Some paint/primer is not intended for bricks and will not stick properly and may waste your time.
So, for bricks, you have to go for masonry paint and primer. Masonry paints are acrylic-based paints that adhere easily to the brick surfaces to provide the desired finish.
Never paint on damaged brick.
In some cases, paint can help cover deterioration and other similar issues. But this is not the case for bricks. A fresh coat will not hide imperfections like mold or cracks. Painting over them may even cause more problems. So, before painting, you have to examine the surface and repair or replace the damaged bricks.
Painted brick is permanent.
Once you run your brush on your brick walls, there will be no turning back. Painted brick has to stay painted and repainted for at least every seven years to prevent damage from moisture. But, since brick is open to repaints, you can change to whatever color you like. Just remember that painted brick means a lifelong commitment. So, precise planning is a must.
Make sure to clean the surface first.
Painted bricks show dirt more than unpainted ones, but the good news is that they are easier to clean. As mentioned, painting bricks is a lifelong commitment. With that, you have to clean it constantly as well. You can invest in power washing tools or hire professionals who can do it for you.
Never paint on brand-new brick.
A new brick still has that powdery texture, which will be a problem with the paint’s adherence. Wait for a month or two before painting on the brick. Otherwise, you’ll probably end up with paint that peels off and waste your time.
The painting process
Fortunately, the painting process for bricks is not as complicated as its decision-making. The painting process takes time and effort but is straightforward nonetheless.
What you need
- Scrub brush
- Soap and water
- Paintbrush or roller
- Masonry paint and primer
- Painter’s tape
Preparing the brick
Always clean first before you paint. Unpainted brick will be harder to clean, so brush thoroughly with soapy water to remove dirt. If dirt is still intact, you can use cleaning chemicals to help you out. But remember to wear protective gear before applying.
Let dry after cleaning. A fresh coat of paint doesn’t adhere to visible problems like cracks. You can fix minor damages like cracks or holes with acrylic caulk, but if the damage is worse than that, have a professional take a look at those parts first.
Tape off any areas you don’t want to paint on before proceeding with the project.
Priming and Painting
Apply the primer and let it dry. The best way to paint on the brick is by using a sprayer. If you don’t have access to a sprayer, a brush or roller can also do the work. Be sure to invest in a quality brush or roller capable of painting on rough surfaces.
Start painting with more effort to ensure that the paint is applied well in the texture. You can use the second layer of paint if you think the first one is not enough.
Conclusion
Painting on brick is not a job that you should take lightly. It takes time and a lot of things to consider before starting. If you’re settled on painting over the bricks but don’t have a skill for DIY, hire the professionals to do the job for you!
El Gato Painting is the perfect service provider for your painted brick dilemma. They utilize the right techniques, using the proper tools for a seamless paint job over your brick exterior.
El Gato Painting has been in the industry for four decades and has partnered with different homeowners for painting and restoration services.
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