How To Paint Exterior Brick

Painting exterior brick can dramatically update your home’s look, adding style and protection. But brick is a porous material, so proper preparation and technique are essential to ensure the paint adheres well and lasts.

This guide will walk you through how to paint exterior brick successfully — from cleaning and priming to choosing the right paint and applying it.

Step 1: Inspect and Prepare the Brick Surface

Before painting, thoroughly inspect the brick for damage such as cracks, crumbling mortar, or moisture issues.

What to Check:

• Loose or damaged mortar joints
  
  
• Efflorescence (white, powdery deposits indicating moisture)
  
  
• Mold or mildew growth
  
  

Preparation Tips:

• Repair any mortar or brick damage using a tuckpointing method.
  
  
• Remove efflorescence by scrubbing with a stiff brush and water.
  
  
• Clean the surface with a masonry cleaner or trisodium phosphate (TSP) solution to remove dirt and mildew.
  
  
• Rinse thoroughly and allow bricks to dry completely — this can take several days.
  
  

Step 2: Choose the Right Paint and Primer

For exterior brick, the right paint and primer are crucial to durability.

Recommended Products:

• Masonry primer: Seals the porous brick and improves paint adhesion.
  
  
• Acrylic latex paint: Flexible and breathable, ideal for brick surfaces.
  
  
• Avoid oil-based paints which can trap moisture.
  
  

Select paint designed specifically for masonry or exterior use.

Step 3: Protect Surrounding Areas

Use painter’s tape to cover window frames, trim, and other areas near the brick. Lay drop cloths on the ground to protect plants and walkways.

Step 4: Apply Primer

Using a brush or roller, apply a generous coat of masonry primer to the brick surface.

Tips:

• Work in manageable sections.
  
  
• Use a roller with a thick nap (¾ inch or more) to reach into brick pores.
  
  
• Allow the primer to dry fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24 hours).
  
  

Step 5: Paint the Brick

Once the primer is dry, apply the paint.

Application Tips:

• Use the same roller type for consistent texture.
  
  
• Apply two coats for even coverage and durability.
  
  
• Use a brush to cut in around edges and crevices.
  
  
• Let each coat dry completely before applying the next (usually 4–6 hours).
  
  

Step 6: Maintenance and Touch-Ups

After painting, maintain the brick by cleaning it gently with water and a soft brush to remove dirt and prevent mildew.

Touch-Up Tips:

• Keep leftover paint for future touch-ups.
  
  
• Inspect yearly for peeling or cracking and address issues promptly to avoid damage.
  
  

FAQ’s:

Q 1: How long does exterior brick paint last?

When properly applied with quality paint and primer, paint on exterior brick can last 8 to 10 years. Maintenance and weather conditions can affect longevity.

Q 2: Can I paint brick without primer?

While some paints claim to be self-priming, using a masonry primer is highly recommended to seal the porous surface and enhance adhesion. Skipping primer can lead to peeling and uneven finish.

Q 3: Is painting exterior brick better than staining?

Painting provides more color options and a solid finish, while staining allows the natural brick texture to show through. Painting offers greater coverage but may require more maintenance.

Final Thoughts:

Painting exterior brick is a fantastic way to refresh your home’s facade and add curb appeal. With proper surface preparation, the right primer and paint, and careful application, your painted brick can look stunning and last for years. Whether you want a bold new color or a clean white washed effect, following these steps will ensure a successful exterior brick painting project.

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