To Paint, or Not to Paint: Should You Get Your Brick House Painted?

For as long as anyone can remember, the debate over painting bricks has sparked passionate discussions. Some delve into the intricate details, debating the compatibility of bricks and paint like it’s a timeless puzzle. It’s often compared to getting a tattoo – an alluring prospect that once inked, becomes a permanent fixture. Attempting to revert bricks back to their original color through sandblasting is notoriously challenging, which adds to the hesitations surrounding painting bricks and fuels numerous uncertainties.

(Photo Credits: platinumpainting.com)

Many homeowners opt against painting their brick houses, and the reasons are clear. Brick homes show off a timeless allure, emanating a sense of strength and enduring style. However, over time, the original brick color may no longer align with evolving tastes or may begin to seem outdated. This dilemma leads many to question: is painting a brick house a viable solution? The answer is unequivocally yes – painting a brick house offers a transformative impact on its appearance, revitalizing its facade in ways that can modernize and personalize your living space.

Before you rush to purchase paint, though, there are crucial considerations to think about. Ensuring you’re prepared for this commitment involves evaluating factors such as the condition of your bricks, the type of paint suitable for masonry surfaces, and the long-term maintenance requirements. It’s not just about changing the color; it’s about making informed decisions that enhance both the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of your home. By carefully weighing these aspects and perhaps consulting with experts, you can embark on a painting project that not only revitalizes but also preserves the timeless charm of your brick house for years to come.

(Photo credits: platinumpainting.com)

First off, painting can boost your home’s look. You can change up the color and style to match your taste or current trends. Plus, the paint adds a protective layer against rain, snow, and UV rays, which helps prevent water damage and cracking in the bricks. Check out the before and after photos of painted bricks here!

Painted brick is also easier to clean – dirt and mildew wash off more easily. If your bricks have different colors or patches, painting can make everything look more even. A fresh coat of paint can also make your house look more appealing and might even increase its value.

Some paints are great at resisting mold and mildew, which is awesome if you live in a humid area. And, believe it or not, some paints can even add a bit of insulation, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. So, before you say no, think about all these perks!

Brick House Before Painting

Before you decide to paint your brick house, it’s crucial to consider several significant factors that will impact both the aesthetic outcome and long-term maintenance. Firstly, painting brick is a permanent decision. Unlike other surfaces that can be easily repainted or restored, once you apply paint to brick, reversing it to its original appearance is extremely challenging. This underscores the importance of being fully committed to the transformation before proceeding.

Additionally, painted brick requires ongoing upkeep to maintain its appearance and durability. Over time, the paint may peel, chip, or fade due to exposure to the elements, necessitating regular touch-ups or even a complete repaint. This maintenance aspect should be factored into your decision-making process, ensuring you’re prepared to invest time and resources in preserving the painted finish over the years.

Moreover, the condition of your brick before painting is critical. New bricks, for instance, often release a powdery residue that can affect paint adhesion and durability. Experts recommend allowing new bricks to be cured for at least a month before painting to mitigate these issues. Furthermore, it’s essential to assess the overall condition of your brick. Painting over damaged or deteriorating brick can exacerbate existing problems, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line.

Taking these considerations seriously will help you navigate the process confidently and achieve a satisfying outcome that enhances both the beauty and value of your property.

Brick House After Painting

(Photo Credits: interiorpainting.ca)

Choosing the right paint for your brick job is crucial for durability and a flawless finish. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. 1. Masonry Paint: Specifically made for rough surfaces like brick, it’s durable, weather-resistant, and fights against mold and mildew, ensuring your bricks stay pristine. We recommend Loxon® – Engineered for Concrete and Masonry by Sherwin Williams for this one. 
   2. Acrylic Latex Paint: Opt for this water-based option to let your bricks breathe, preventing moisture buildup and potential damage. Its easy cleanup makes maintenance a breeze. Emerald Rain Refresh Exterior Acrylic Latex Paint by Sherwin Williams or Regal Select Exterior High Build, Flat from Benjamin Moore are widely used by most painters. 
   3. Elastomeric Paint: Ideal for exterior bricks prone to movement or stress, this paint offers superior water resistance and forms a protective barrier that can bridge small cracks, ensuring long-lasting protection.
   4. Mineral-based Paint (Silicate Paint): Known for its chemical bond with bricks, it provides exceptional durability and breathability, resisting peeling and flaking over time.

Make sure you let your contractor know what you want to achieve when painting your brick house so that they can recommend the best type of paint for the project.

(Photo Credits: absolutepainters.com )

Choosing the right contractor to paint your bricks is crucial to ensuring a job well done. Start by seeking recommendations and checking online reviews to find reputable contractors specializing in masonry and exterior painting. Verify their credentials, ensuring they are licensed and insured for your protection. Experience matters, especially with brick surfaces, so review their portfolio and speak with past clients to gauge their satisfaction.

Obtain detailed written estimates from multiple contractors to compare costs and project details, but beware of unusually low bids that may compromise quality. Effective communication is essential; choose a contractor who can clearly explain the process and address any concerns you have. 

Before signing any contracts, carefully review the terms, including the scope of work, payment schedule, timeline, and warranty coverage. Visiting current job sites allows you to witness their craftsmanship firsthand. Ultimately, prioritize professionalism and trustworthiness, selecting a contractor who inspires confidence and demonstrates a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Speaking of high-quality results and customer-centric service, Liberty Painting proved this to be true. With our 5-star Google Reviews, you will never go wrong. At Liberty Painting, our customers set the bar. And when our clients are well informed about the painting process, their product choices, and what quality work looks like, their expectations are even higher — and high expectations raise the bar industry-wide.

(Photo credits: bhg.com.au )

Painting a brick house is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and commitment. Once you choose to paint your bricks, it’s generally a permanent change, so it’s essential to be confident in your decision. However, many concerns about painting bricks can be addressed with advancements in modern paint technology, particularly with the advent of mineral paints. These paints offer exceptional durability and breathability, ensuring your bricks stay protected and look great for years to come.

Transforming your home’s exterior with a fresh coat of paint on brick can modernize and personalize its appearance, reflecting your unique style. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages, selecting high-quality materials such as mineral-based paints, and employing proper techniques, you can achieve a stunning and enduring finish that enhances the overall aesthetic of your property.

It’s crucial to emphasize thorough preparation and ongoing maintenance as critical factors in preserving the beauty and longevity of your painted brick house. Proper preparation, including cleaning, priming, and choosing the right paint application method, sets the foundation for a durable finish. Regular maintenance, such as periodic cleaning and inspections for any signs of wear or damage, ensures that your investment in painted brick remains vibrant and protected against the elements.

Ultimately, painting your brick house is not just about aesthetic enhancement but also about enhancing the structural integrity and value of your home. With careful planning and the right approach, you can confidently embark on this transformative project, knowing that your home will stand out for its beauty and durability in the neighborhood.