Painting Over Brick: What You Need to Know

Brick homes have a timeless appeal—whether it’s the warmth of red brick, the elegance of whitewashed surfaces, or the earthy tones of historic masonry. However, as styles shift and homeowners crave a more modern look, painting a brick house exterior becomes an increasingly tempting option.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations, from the benefits and drawbacks to proper prep, paint selection, and maintenance. You’ll also learn when not to paint your brick and why the right technique (or hiring a professional) matters more than you might think.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CONSIDER PAINTING IT

For many homeowners, painting a brick house exterior isn’t about covering up—it’s about creating a cohesive, updated look that better matches their taste.

Old ones can appear dated, especially if it’s dark, stained, or patched in different shades from previous repairs. Even homes built in the ‘80s or ‘90s may have it that no longer complements the updated landscaping or siding.

Then there’s curb appeal. A fresh coat of breathable paint can dramatically boost the look of your home, potentially increasing its market value—especially in neighborhoods where painted brick is becoming the norm.

Paint also helps unify the exterior. If you’ve added an extension or had to replace damaged sections of your wall, a high-quality paint job can make everything look seamless.

Still, many homeowners hesitate. They love the natural texture and uniqueness of it and fear losing that forever. Others worry that maintenance will be a nightmare, or that peeling paint will ruin their home’s appearance in just a few years.

That’s why expert insight is critical. When done right—with the proper prep, products, and timing—painted brick can look incredible and last for decades.

PROS AND CONS

Benefits:

• Gives your home a fresh, modern appearance

• Covers up discolored or patchy brick and mortar

• Seals minor cracks, improving visual consistency

• Broadens your color options beyond natural brick tones

Risks:

• Moisture trapping: If the wrong paint is used, moisture can get sealed inside, leading to flaking, mold, and structural damage.

• Irreversibility: Once you paint it, going back is nearly impossible. Removing paint from porous surfaces is extremely labor-intensive and often unsuccessful.

• Ongoing maintenance: Painted brick needs touch-ups or full repaints every 7–10 years, especially in harsh climates.

These risks are real. But they’re also avoidable—with the right process.

Common homeowner concern: “Will I regret this?”

Answer: You won’t if you’re informed, deliberate, and willing to invest in proper materials—or a skilled professional.

WHEN NOT TO PAINT

While painted brick can be stunning, there are times when you should walk away from the idea—at least temporarily.

Avoid painting if:

• It is historic: Original brick on landmark homes may be protected under preservation laws. Even if not, painting can reduce resale value for buyers who want authenticity.

• It is damaged or crumbling: Paint traps moisture. On failing surfaces, this accelerates deterioration and leads to expensive repairs.

• It’s a high-moisture area: If your home lacks proper drainage, or if water often splashes against the base of your walls, the risk of trapped moisture increases dramatically.

Important: Check your brick’s moisture content before painting. A basic moisture meter can help—look for readings below 12–15%. This is a crucial but often skipped step in DIY jobs.

WHAT TYPE OF PAINT IS BEST FOR BRICK?

The worst thing you can do is slap on regular house paint. Brick is porous and needs to “breathe.” Trapping moisture inside can lead to costly failures.

Instead, choose paints formulated for masonry—these allow vapor to escape while protecting the surface.

Here’s how common options stack up:

STEP-BY-STEP: HOW TO PROPERLY PAINT A BRICK HOUSE EXTERIOR

This is not a weekend project you can rush through. The right process takes time—but it protects your home and ensures the paint lasts.

1. Inspect and Repair

Check for:

• Cracked or crumbling mortar

• Mold, mildew, or salt deposits (efflorescence)

• Loose bricks or previous patch jobs

These issues must be repaired before painting. Otherwise, you’re sealing damage under the paint—leading to faster deterioration.

Tip: If the surface is dusty or chalky, paint won’t stick.

2. Clean the Surface

Use a soft pressure wash or gentle scrub with masonry-safe detergent. This removes dirt, algae, and any old sealants or loose material.

• Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure blasting—these can erode the brick.

• Dry time: Let the surface dry fully for at least 48 hours.

Yes, brick can soak up water. That’s why patience here matters.

3. Test for Moisture

Use a moisture meter on multiple spots—especially near ground level and around windows.

• Target reading: Below 12–15% moisture.

• Why it matters: Painting wet brick leads to blistering and peeling.

This step is often skipped—but it’s one of the most critical.

4. Apply Masonry Primer

A quality primer designed for masonry helps the paint bond and adds a breathable base layer.

• Don’t use standard exterior primers

• Apply with a brush or roller to push into the pores

Especially vital for older homes or surfaces prone to efflorescence

5. Paint with Masonry-Grade Paint

Apply two full coats using:

• A brush for tight areas

• A roller for smooth coverage

• A sprayer + backrolling for textured brick

Avoid painting in direct sun or just before rain. Always use drop cloths—brick holds overspray and drips more than other surfaces.

MAINTENANCE AND LONGEVITY OF PAINTED BRICK

When done right, a painted brick home can stay beautiful for 7–10 years or more.

But no exterior is truly “set it and forget it.” Here’s how to keep it looking its best:

• Inspect annually for flaking, mildew, or water issues

• Keep gutters and downspouts clear

• Avoid harsh pressure washing—gentle cleaning is safer

• Trim nearby shrubs and trees to keep water off the surface

If paint begins to fail, address it early. Delayed repairs often require stripping—an expensive and grueling job.

WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A PROFESSIONAL FOR PAINTING BRICK

Painting a brick house exterior is part art, part science. A professional painter understands the risks and the materials—and they know how to prevent problems before they start.

Professionals will:

• Assess the condition of your brick

• Use breathable, long-lasting coatings

• Time your project for optimal drying

• Offer warranties and peace of mind

Worried about making a permanent mistake? That’s a valid concern. Hiring a pro means getting it done right the first time—with techniques and materials proven to last.

We offer free exterior painting consultations—no pressure, just honest guidance.

CONCLUSION

Painting your exterior is a big decision. It’s permanent. It’s transformative. And when it’s done right, it can dramatically improve the look and value of your home.

But it’s not something to rush into. Moisture, surface condition, and paint type all need to be carefully considered.

Take your time. Learn your options. Talk to someone who’s done this before—and done it well.

If you’re thinking about painting your house exterior, don’t leave it to trial and error. Get expert insight and a long-lasting result. Contact us today for a free estimate on your exterior painting project.