by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024You’ve decided it’s time to give your brick walls or fireplace a makeover with a fresh coat of paint. Great idea! Painting brick is a simple way to transform the look and feel of your space. But before you grab a paintbrush, there are a few things you need to know to ensure you end up with results you’ll love.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the necessary prep work, the best types of paint for brick, and techniques to get a professional-looking finish. With the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to colorful, eye-catching brickwork in no time. The key is starting with a clean, rough surface, choosing a high-quality, breathable paint, and applying multiple thin coats.
If you’ve never painted brick before, it can seem intimidating. But have no fear – with some patience and the right tools, you’ve got this! Follow these tips and in just a weekend, you can transform your brick from drab to fab. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Preparing Brick Surfaces for Painting
Before you start painting brick, you need to thoroughly clean and prepare the surface.
First, remove any loose mortar or debris with a wire brush. Scrub away built-up dirt and grime with a detergent and scrub brush, then rinse well with water.
Let the brick dry completely. This usually takes 3-7 days. Moisture trapped behind the paint will cause bubbling and peeling.
Next, fill any cracks or holes in the mortar joints with caulk, spackle, or weather-resistant filler. Smooth the area with fine-grit sandpaper.
If the brick has a glossy sealant or is stained, you’ll need to rough up the surface so the paint has something to grip onto. Lightly sand the entire wall with 80-120 grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
For the best results, apply a primer designed for masonry. Primer helps the topcoat of paint adhere better and provides an even base layer. Roll or brush the primer on and let it dry as directed.
Finally, you’re ready for paint! For brick, use an acrylic latex or elastomeric paint. These provide the flexibility needed as brick expands and contracts. Apply at least two coats, waiting for each to dry in between.
With the proper prep, your brick will be ready to transform into any color you desire. Take your time—the results will be well worth the effort. If done right, a coat of paint can revive old brick and give your home an entirely new look.
Paint Options for Brick Surfaces
When it comes to paint options for brick, you have a few good choices.
Latex or acrylic paint
This is a popular and inexpensive option for painting brick. Latex or acrylic paint provides good coverage and adhesion. It’s also water-based, so it’s easy to clean up. You’ll want to choose a paint specifically intended for masonry or brick.
Oil-based paint
Oil-based paint is another choice and provides good coverage. However, it has strong fumes, takes longer to dry, and requires the use of solvents for cleanup. Oil-based paint may also darken brick. Use only in well-ventilated areas.
Elastomeric paint
For brick that's exposed to a lot of moisture or weather, elastomeric paint is a good option. It contains elastic polymers that allow it to stretch and flex with the brick. This helps prevent cracking. Elastomeric paint provides a waterproof coating. It is more expensive but provides the best protection.
Stain
If you want to change the color of brick but still show its texture, consider stain. Stain soaks into the surface of the brick rather than coating it. Transparent stains will subtly tint the brick while still allowing the surface texture and details to show through. Stain requires a protective clear topcoat to seal it.
Masonry primer
For the best results, apply a masonry primer before the topcoat of your choice. A primer helps the paint better adhere to the brick surface. It also provides a uniform base coat so your final coat of paint looks even and professional.
With the right preparation and choice of paint, you'll have your brick looking fresh and new again. Take your time to do it right and you'll enjoy the results for years to come.
Painting Techniques for Brick
Once you’ve properly prepped the brick surface, it’s time to apply your paint. There are a few techniques that will help you get the best results.
Rolling
For large, flat areas of brick, a roller is your best tool. Use a 3/8-inch nap roller cover and work in sections. Load the roller with paint and roll it onto the brick using vertical strokes. Then use horizontal strokes to smooth it out. Work slowly to avoid drips and uneven coverage. Let each section dry before moving on.
Brushing
For corners, edges, and trim, use an angled brush. Load the brush with paint and dab it onto the brick using light, even pressure. Drag the brush slowly along edges and seams. Work in short sections, cleaning and reloading the brush as needed. Brushing takes more time but gives you more control and the best results for intricate areas.
Spraying
If speed and convenience are priorities, consider using an airless sprayer or paint sprayer to apply a base coat. Spraying paint onto brick provides even coverage quickly. However, it can be messy and difficult to control. You’ll still need to backbrush or roll to properly cover the surface and provide an even coat. Spraying works best when combined with another technique.
Distressing (optional)
For a rustic look, you may want to distress your newly painted brick. Once the paint is dry, use sandpaper, wire brushes, or abrasive pads to wear away some of the paint and expose the brick underneath. Focus on edges, corners and areas that would naturally show signs of wear and tear. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth and apply a clear sealer to protect the finish.
With the right technique (or combination of techniques) and a careful, methodical approach, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your brick surface with a fresh coat of paint. Take your time—patience and precision will pay off!
Cleaning and Repairing Brick Before Painting
Before painting brick, proper cleaning and repair is essential. Cleaning brick removes dirt and debris, opens up the surface, and provides “tooth” for the paint to adhere to. Repairing any cracks or damage in the brick will help ensure an even coat of paint that lasts.
Cleaning Brick
The first step is to scrub the brick with a degreaser or heavy-duty cleaner to remove any oils or grime. Then, use a pressure washer to blast away any loose particles. For stuck-on messes, scrub with an abrasive sponge or scrubber. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all cleaning solutions.
Let the brick dry completely, at least 24 to 48 hours. Moisture trapped behind the paint can cause issues down the road.
Filling Cracks and Holes
Inspect the brick for any cracks, holes or damage and fill them in. Use a concrete filler or brick mortar that matches your brick color as closely as possible. For small cracks, a caulk may work. Scrub off any excess filler with a putty knife and sand down rough edges. Let all fillers dry as directed before painting.
Priming
For the best results, especially when painting contrasting colors, apply a primer. An acrylic latex or oil-based primer works well for brick. Apply two coats, waiting 2 to 4 hours between coats. Let the primer dry for at least 24 hours before painting. Priming helps provide a uniform surface for the paint to adhere to and maximizes coverage.
Paint Options
Latex or acrylic paints are a good choice for brick because they “breathe” and have built-in flexibility. Avoid enamel paints which can lead to chipping and peeling. For darker colors, use a paint formulated for exteriors or with a primer included. Stain-blocking paint may be needed if painting over a stained brick. In all cases, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for suitable surfaces.
With the proper prep, your brick will provide the perfect blank canvas. Careful cleaning, filling in any damage, and priming if needed, ensure a professional finish. Choosing a high-quality, breathable paint formulated for exteriors results in a durable finish that will make your brick surface look brand new.
Priming Brick Surfaces
Painting brick surfaces requires proper preparation to ensure good adhesion and an attractive finish. Priming brick before painting is essential for the best results.
Cleaning Brick
The first step is cleaning the brick to remove any dirt or debris. Use a stiff brush to scrub off loose particles. For stuck-on grime, create a cleaning solution of one part bleach to three parts water. Scrub the brick with the solution using a scrub brush, then rinse thoroughly with a hose. Allow the brick to dry completely before priming.
Filling Cracks and Holes
Inspect the brick for any cracks, holes or imperfections and fill them in with a concrete patch compound or brick filler caulk. Smooth the filler with a putty knife or caulk tool once applied. Let the filler dry as directed before priming.
Choosing a Primer
For painting brick, use an alkali-resistant primer. Alkali refers to salts and minerals found in masonry like brick and concrete. Alkali-resistant primers are formulated to adhere properly to these surfaces. Popular options include acrylic latex primers, epoxy primers and masonry primers. For the best adhesion, look for a primer specifically intended for brick.
Applying the Primer
Once you’ve cleaned and filled the brick, you’re ready to apply primer. Use a brush to paint primer into any cracks and crevices in the brick, then use a roller to prime large, flat areas. Apply at least two coats of primer, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. The primer should cover the brick completely to provide a solid base for your paint. Let the final coat dry for at least 24 hours before painting.
Proper priming and preparation help ensure a smooth finish and long-lasting results when painting brick. With the right cleaning, filling, primer and technique, you’ll have a professional-looking painted brick surface in no time.
Top Paint Colors for Brick
Brick surfaces can be painted, but it does require proper preparation and technique to get good results. The key is starting with a clean, primed surface and choosing a high-quality paint formulated for masonry.
Priming the Surface
The most important first step is cleaning and priming the brick. Scrub away any loose dirt or debris with a wire brush. Then apply a primer designed for painting brick, like acrylic brick primer or primer sealer. The primer helps the paint adhere better to the brick. Apply two coats of primer, waiting 2-4 hours between coats.
Selecting Paint
For the best results, choose an acrylic latex or acrylic enamel paint. These provide good coverage and durability. Flat or satin sheens tend to work best for brick. Avoid oil-based paints, as they don’t flex well and can chip more easily. Popular, complementary colors for brick include:
- Warm reds, browns and terra cottas
- Cool grays, blues and greens
- Creamy off-whites or ivories
Application Technique
When painting brick, use a brush to paint mortar lines and edges first, then roll on the rest of the paint. Apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. For the smoothest finish, use a brush to paint mortar lines and edges first. Then roll on the rest of the paint using a 3/8” nap roller cover. Extend each coat 6-8” beyond the previous section.
Once complete, your freshly painted brick surface will have a smooth, professionally-finished look. With the right prep, paint, and technique, even amateur DIYers can get great results and a whole new look for brick walls, fireplaces, and other masonry.
Painting Interior vs. Exterior Brick
Painting interior brick and exterior brick require some different considerations. Interior brick is protected from the elements, so preparation and paint selection differ. Exterior brick faces temperature changes, weather, and environmental exposure that impact your paint job.
Interior Brick
Interior brick is ready to paint once cleaned. Vacuum loose dirt and debris, then scrub any grease or grime spots with a degreaser or TSP substitute. Rinse well with water and let dry completely.
For paint, choose an interior acrylic or latex paint. These provide good coverage and adhesion. Eggshell or satin sheens work well for brick. Prime first for best results, especially if going from dark to light. Apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. Use a brush to cut in edges and roll the rest.
Exterior Brick
Exterior brick needs more prep to ensure paint adheres properly. Power wash the brick to remove loose particles. Scrub mold or mildew stains. Check for cracks or damage and repair as needed. Allow 1-2 days for the brick to dry completely.
Select an exterior acrylic latex paint, especially for high-moisture areas like the south or west sides of a home. For the best protection, choose a paint with a satin or glossy sheen. Prime the brick first, then apply at least two coats of paint. Wait longer between coats, at least 4-6 hours. Use a brush for edges and a roller for large, open areas.
For exterior paint jobs, weather also plays a role. Only paint when temperatures are between 50 to 90 F and humidity is below 85% for proper drying. Avoid painting if rain is expected within 24 hours. Exterior paint can take up to a month to fully cure, so be gentle when cleaning or touching up the brick during that time.
With the right prep and paint, you'll end up with a professional looking paint job on your interior or exterior brick surfaces. Take your time and pay attention to the details for results that will last.
Common Painting Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your brick painting project results in a professional finish. Take your time and pay attention to the details—your patience will pay off!
inadequate preparation
Preparing the brick surface properly is key. Clean the brick thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Check for any cracks or holes and seal them. Failure to clean and seal the brick will result in an uneven, splotchy finish.
Choosing the wrong paint
For painting brick, use a high-quality acrylic latex or elastomeric paint. These provide good adhesion and flexibility. Avoid using regular latex wall paint, as it won’t properly adhere to brick. Elastomeric paint is a great choice for exterior brick.
Applying too much paint at once
It’s tempting to load up your roller or brush to get the job done faster. Resist the urge. Apply two or three thin coats of paint instead of one thick coat. Thin coats adhere better and result in an even finish. Thick coats are more prone to dripping, sagging, and unevenness.
Not letting coats dry completely
Follow the recommended drying time between coats listed on your paint can. Applying additional coats before the previous one is fully dry can cause blistering and peeling. It’s worth the wait to do it right.
Not priming first
For the best results, apply a coat of primer before painting. Primer helps the paint adhere better to the brick. It also provides good coverage, so you’ll need fewer coats of paint.
Not protecting trim
Carefully tape off and protect any trim, windows, doors, and adjacent surfaces before painting. Failure to do so will result in drips, splatters and an unprofessional finish. Remove tape before the paint dries completely to avoid peeling.
By avoiding these common mistakes, taking your time, and using the proper techniques, you’ll end up with a brick painting job you can be proud of. Your patience and attention to detail will pay off with a high-quality, long-lasting finish.
Painting Brick Surfaces FAQs
Have some questions before you start your brick painting project? We've got answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about painting brick.
- What type of paint should I use on brick? For exterior brick, use an acrylic latex or acrylic alkyd paint that is specially formulated for masonry surfaces. Interior brick can be painted with latex or alkyd paint. Avoid oil-based paints, as they won’t adhere well to brick.
- Do I need to prime the brick first? Priming brick before painting is highly recommended, especially for exterior surfaces. A masonry primer helps the topcoat of paint adhere better to the brick. For interior brick, priming is optional but can still help provide better coverage in fewer coats.
- How many coats of paint will I need? Plan on applying at least two coats of paint for the best results, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. The exact number will depend on the condition of your brick and the type of paint used. Fresh brick or porous brick may require an additional coat.
- Do I need to seal or waterproof the brick first? For exterior brick, applying a sealant or waterproofing product before painting is a good idea, especially if you're painting a chimney or areas exposed to weather. A sealant helps prevent moisture damage and extends the life of the paint. For interior brick, sealing is usually not necessary.
- How do I clean brick before painting? Cleaning brick before painting is critical for paint adhesion. Scrub away any dirt or debris with a wire brush. Then wash the brick with a degreaser or heavy-duty cleaner according to the product directions. Rinse thoroughly with a pressure washer to remove any remaining residue. Allow 24-48 hours for the brick to dry completely.
- Can I get paint tinted to match my brick color? Yes, many paint manufacturers offer custom color matching services to provide you an exact match for your brick. Provide a sample of your brick to the paint store to have the paint tinted to the perfect custom shade. For the most seamless results, choose a satin or flat sheen.
- How do I get crisp edges and lines when painting brick? Apply painter's tape to the brick around trims, windows and doors before painting. Remove the tape as soon as you're done painting for the cleanest lines. A small angled brush also works well for cutting in and edges. Apply a second coat of paint along edges and seams for the most even finish.
Final Thoughts
So now that you've done all the hard work prepping your brick and choosing your paint, it's time to apply it. Take your time and be methodical. Work in sections and use a brush to cut in around edges and a roller for large, flat areas. Apply a minimum of two coats, waiting for each to dry as directed. Once complete, step back and admire your handiwork. Those old, tired bricks have a fresh new look and your whole house will feel updated. Not bad for a DIY project! Painting brick surfaces may seem intimidating but by following the right steps and techniques, you've accomplished a professional result at a fraction of the cost. Feel free to tweak and experiment - after all, your home is your canvas!