Painted brick houses are all the ragesometimes.
Learn about the polarizing trend to decide if painting your exterior brick helps or hurts its value.
For another, there are some strong differing opinions both for and against a painted brick house.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Those who advocate for painting brick list enhanced curb appeal, versatility, and easy maintenance among the pros.
Opponents argue that painting brick hides its natural beauty and can damage its structural integrity.
Here’s what you’re gonna wanna consider as you contemplate this makeover option.
Credit: Robert Brinson
If you have solid brick on your home that still looks great, Sidler cautions against painting it.
“Brick requires very little maintenance, but now you’ve created a maintenance cycle,” he says.
Laura Bierman, an interior design consultant at YouthfulHome.com, agrees.
“For interior surfaces, whitewashing may be a better look for you than paint,” Bierman says.
“Acid washing interior brick can give it a fresh look that changes the room as well.”
Plus, you’re usually covering a smaller amount of space than you would with exterior brick.
“Go for it,” he says.
And, of course, Sidler says, you better pick the right paint and primer.
“Brick is porous and it needs to breathe.”
Sidler says this can lead to efflorescence or a build-up of minerals on the brick.
Instead, look for a paint designed specifically for the job.
“Masonry paints are meant to adhere better to brick and be more breathable,” Sidler says.
You’ll likely have to pay a bit more, but it’s worth it.
If you’re unsure of your ability to complete the paint job properly, consider hiring a pro.
“Before painting, ensure thatbrick is very clean,” Sidler says.
“Use a good primer and the highest quality paint you’re free to afford.
Down the line, if you want to remove the paint, Sidler suggests opting for a chemical stripper.
“One of the biggest mistakes I see withstripping paint from brickis the sandblasting process,” Sidler says.
It removes the protective cover and the brick has a far lesser lifespan.”
Are Painted Brick Homes a Passing Trend or a Lasting Look?
Like all trends, painted brick can go in and out of style.
Plus, as the trend fades, you, the homeowner, could grow tired of the look.
“Homes with a very specific look won’t appeal to everyone.
In some neighborhoods, white-painted brick may provide the curb appeal that seals the deal.
In others, not so much,” Bierman says.
“I recommend it if it fits the place and purpose for existing homes.
It’s a cost-effective way to achieve a major transformation of the home,” Bierman says.
“To prepare for sale, existing painted brick should be cleaned or repainted,” she says.
Painted brick can be just the thing to refresh your home’s exterior when approached with commitment and care.
When it comes to painted brick inside your home, that lifespan is often much longer.
Lighter colors of paint will show dirt and need cleaning from time to time.
Pressure-washing on a low setting is the best way to keep painted brick clean.
In addition, painting your brick seals in moisture and prevents the brick from “breathing.”
When painting your brick exterior, your prep work is just as important as your painting technique.
Allow the brick to dry completely before proceeding to paint.
