Can You Paint Brick?
QUICK ANSWER
Yes, you can paint brick, but the decision is permanent. Once painted, brick must be repainted every 5 to 10 years and stripping to bare brick is nearly impossible. Use breathable masonry paint over a masonry primer. Avoid painting brick less than 1 year old which is still curing.
Painting brick is one of the most popular ways to refresh the look of an older home. It is also one of the most divisive decisions in home improvement because once brick is painted, you cannot reasonably go back. The painted brick requires ongoing maintenance forever. Here is the case for and against painting brick, plus the right method if you decide to proceed.
Should you paint brick at all?
Arguments for painting brick: refreshes outdated brick colors, hides mismatched or repaired brick, allows custom color choices, can dramatically improve curb appeal. Arguments against: permanent decision since stripping painted brick is nearly impossible, requires repainting every 5 to 10 years (vs unpainted brick which lasts a century with no maintenance), can trap moisture in the brick leading to spalling and freeze-thaw damage, and may reduce home value with traditionalist buyers. Consider the tradeoffs carefully before committing.
How do you prep brick for painting?
Wait at least 1 year for newly laid brick to fully cure before painting (older brick is fine). Clean the brick thoroughly with a stiff brush and water. For dirty or mildewed brick, scrub with a mixture of water, dish soap, and bleach. Rinse thoroughly. Let dry completely (at least 24 hours, longer in humid weather). Repair any cracks or mortar damage with masonry crack filler or mortar before painting. Check for efflorescence (white powdery mineral deposits); brush off with a stiff dry brush before priming.
What paint works on brick?
Use masonry paint or elastomeric paint designed for brick and stucco. These paints are breathable, allowing moisture vapor to pass through without trapping water that would damage the brick. Non-breathable paints (regular wall paint) trap moisture and cause spalling. Apply over a masonry primer like Loxon Conditioner (Sherwin-Williams) or Behr Premium Plus Masonry Primer. Latex masonry paint is the most common choice. Two thin coats over primer provide better coverage and durability than one thick coat. Total coverage per gallon is less than typical wall paint.
What are the maintenance considerations?
Painted brick needs repainting every 5 to 10 years depending on exposure. South-facing walls fade faster. Inspect annually for peeling, blistering, or moisture damage. Address peeling areas immediately to prevent water infiltration. Periodic pressure washing keeps the painted surface looking fresh between repaints. Touch up nicks and chips as they happen since they expose unprotected brick and primer. Plan for the long-term cost: a typical home repaint runs 3000 to 8000 dollars in materials and labor, recurring every several years.
Painting brick is doable but permanent and high-maintenance. Use breathable masonry paint over masonry primer, after the brick is at least 1 year old and properly cleaned and prepped. Plan to repaint every 5 to 10 years. The decision dramatically changes the home's appearance and committed buyers love it; traditionalists hate it. Think long term before committing since stripping painted brick back to bare is nearly impossible.
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