Can you paint the exterior brick? There is a lot of conflicting information about painting exterior brick, making it hard to know where to start. That’s why our experts created this complete guide to help you understand everything you need to know.
Can You Paint Exterior Bricks?
The short answer is yes. Just like wood, UPVC, and metal, exterior bricks can be painted if properly prepared. Whether it’s a home’s exterior wall or a garden wall, painting bricks can give your property a fresh, unique look. Many homeowners prefer a colored finish over plain brickwork for added curb appeal.
For the best results, use masonry paint, which is specially designed for surfaces like brick, stone, and concrete. These paints are typically water-based and provide weather resistance, with a lifespan ranging from 5 to 10 years, some even lasting up to 25 years. However, not all masonry paints are waterproof. To prevent peeling, flaking, or moisture damage, look for water-repellent options that offer enhanced protection against dampness and discoloration.
Should You Paint Exterior Bricks?
- Now that we know bricks can be painted, the next question is, should you? Some argue against it for two main reasons:
Potential Brick Damage
- Non-breathable paint can trap moisture, leading to structural and aesthetic problems.
Difficult to Reverse
- Once painted, returning to bare brick is challenging, though not impossible.
The Importance of Breathable Paint
The real issue isn’t painting itself but using non-breathable paint. Bricks are porous and absorb moisture. If the paint doesn’t allow moisture to escape, it gets trapped beneath the surface, leading to damage and paint failure.
What Is Breathable Masonry Paint?
Breathability refers to a paint’s ability to allow water vapor to pass through. A paint’s breathability is measured by its SD value. An SD below 1 means the paint is breathable. Many standard masonry paints have low breathability, but there are specialized options designed to keep bricks protected while allowing moisture to escape.
Why You Might Want to Paint Your Bricks?
While some advise against painting brick surfaces, many homeowners opt to do so for both aesthetic and practical reasons. When done correctly, painting bricks can improve curb appeal, protect the masonry, and make maintenance easier. However, choosing the right type of paint is essential to ensure long-term durability and prevent potential issues.
Enhances Curb Appeal
- One of the biggest reasons homeowners paint their brick exteriors is to give their property a fresh, updated look. A new color can modernize an outdated façade, helping the home stand out or blend more harmoniously with the surroundings.
Protects Masonry from Moisture Damage
- While bricks are durable, they are also porous, meaning they absorb moisture from rain, snow, and humidity. Over time, this moisture can lead to structural damage, such as cracks in the mortar, flaking surfaces, and even internal damp issues.
Painting bricks with high-quality waterproof masonry paint can provide an added layer of protection. It helps prevent moisture penetration while reducing the risk of damage caused by freezing and thawing cycles.
Makes Cleaning and Maintenance Easier
A smooth, painted surface is much easier to wash and maintain. Some advanced masonry paints even have self-cleaning properties, repelling dirt and preventing buildup over time. This means homeowners can keep their exteriors looking fresh with minimal effort.
Give your home the professional treatment it deserves with our exterior painting services. Experience Neat, Efficient, and Professional Service with Miles Makarowski Painting. Call us today at (603) 489-8802 for a complimentary estimate. We are located in Atkinson, NH.