A Guide to Painting Brick Exterior the Right Way

Are you thinking about giving your brick exterior a fresh new look? I’ve been there too. Painting brick might seem simple, but it’s a big decision.

It changes not just the appearance, but also how your home handles weather and time. That’s why I put together this guide to help you figure it all out before picking up a brush.

I’ll walk you through the real pros and cons, how to prep your surface the right way, which tools and materials work best, and the steps to get a long-lasting finish.

You’ll also get tips on care, cleaning, and avoiding the common problems people run into with painted brick.

Is Painting Your Brick Exterior the Right Choice for You?

Painting brick can give your home a clean, smooth look. It covers imperfections and makes surfaces match. But this change is permanent. Once painted, the brick can’t go back.

It also needs regular upkeep. Before deciding, consider the benefits and drawbacks and see if there’s a better fit for your needs.

Prep Work Before You Begin

Cleaning the Brick

Start by removing loose dirt, mildew, and old debris. A power washer works well, but use a low setting to avoid damage. Let the surface dry for at least a full day before the next step.

This step helps paint or limewash stick better and last longer.

Don’t paint over grime. Your finish will peel or flake. A clean surface gives you a solid base. You can also scrub tough spots with a stiff brush and mild soap.

Fixing Cracks or Holes

Brick walls often have small cracks or holes. To patch these, use a high-quality acrylic caulk or mortar repair compound.

Follow the product’s directions and allow the area to dry fully, usually 24 to 48 hours. This helps prevent future water leaks or damage.

Skipping this step can let moisture in and cause bubbling. Look closely at corners and joints, since these areas tend to break down faster. Smooth the patched areas so they blend in.

Timing and Weather Considerations

The weather matters more than you might think. Never paint or apply treatment in direct sunlight, on freezing days, or when it’s very humid.

These conditions affect how products stick and dry. Early mornings or late afternoons are best during mild weather.

Aim for a dry forecast for at least 3–4 days. Windy days should also be avoided, especially if spraying. Proper timing helps the finish last longer and reduces the chance of problems later.

Picking the Right Materials

The products you choose will affect how long the finish lasts and how well it sticks. Brick needs specific primers, paints, and tools, so not every product on the shelf will work.

Look for ones made for masonry. The right combination saves time, lowers upkeep, and keeps your walls looking good for years.

Best Primer for Brick

A good primer is the foundation for a long-lasting finish. Use a masonry-specific primer like:

• Masonry Waterproofer: INSL-X Waterblock Masonry Waterproofer is a fast-drying, latex-based formula designed to protect concrete, brick, and masonry surfaces from water penetration.
• Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer: Zinsser Bulls Eye Primer is a water-based, all-purpose primer that sticks to slick surfaces without sanding.
  

These are made to grip rough surfaces and block stains. Please avoid using wood or drywall primers, as they tend not to bond well to brick and may peel quickly.

For old or chalky surfaces, use a bonding primer to add extra hold. Always let the primer dry completely before applying your top coat.

Best Exterior Paint Types

Choose a paint made for masonry that allows the surface to breathe. “Breathable” means moisture can escape instead of getting trapped under the paint.

Look for labels that say “permeable” or “vapor-permeable.” Products like:

• Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint: Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint is a premium, durable formula designed to resist fading, cracking, and peeling in harsh weather.
• Sherwin-Williams Loxon: Sherwin-Williams Loxon coatings are strong options for masonry and concrete, offering excellent waterproofing and breathability.
  

Avoid thick, rubbery coatings that seal the surface too tightly. If moisture can’t escape, you risk bubbling, mold, and peeling.

Tools You’ll Need

• Angled brush: Helps with control in corners, edges, and tight spaces.
• Thick nap roller (¾ inch or more): Designed to handle rough brick surfaces and reach into textured areas.
• Paint sprayer: Speeds up the job and gives even coverage—ideal for large surfaces.
• Painter’s tape: Protects trim, windows, and any areas you don’t want painted.
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting: Shield the nearby ground or landscaping from paint splatter.
• Paint tray and liners: Makes it easier to load your roller and switch between primer and paint.
• Extension pole: Helps reach higher areas safely without needing a ladder constantly.
• Protective gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and a mask—especially when using a sprayer.

Step-by-Step Painting Instructions for Brick Exterior

Once your brick is clean, patched, and dry, it’s time to begin painting. Following each step carefully helps the finish last longer and look better.

Rushing can lead to streaks, peeling, or uneven color. Using the right technique, tools, and timing will give your brick a strong, smooth finish that holds up.

Step 1: Prime the Brick

Start by brushing or rolling on a masonry primer. Apply a thin, even coat, working it into all cracks and rough spots.

If using a sprayer, go slow and use smooth passes to avoid buildup. Let the primer dry fully, and this usually takes 24 hours. Don’t rush this step.

A fully dry primer allows the paint to stick better and gives stronger, longer-lasting results. If you see any missed spots, touch them up before moving on.

Step 2: Apply the First Coat

Use a brush to cut in along edges and corners, then switch to a roller or sprayer for larger areas. Apply the paint in small sections, moving from top to bottom to avoid drips.

Slightly overlap each pass to avoid missed spots. For rollers, use long, steady strokes. Brushes work better for deep joints or tight spaces.

Let the first coat dry fully before adding another. This first layer builds the base for a solid, even color.

Step 3: Apply the Second Coat

Once the first coat is dry (usually within 4 to 6 hours), it’s time for the second coat. Start in a new spot to reduce visible lap lines.

Keep a wet edge as you paint to help blend strokes. Use the same tools and techniques as before, staying consistent in your motion.

This coat locks in the color and adds extra coverage. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before touching or washing the surface. Check for streaks before cleaning up.

Why Painting Brick Might Be a Good Idea

Painting brick can give your home a clean, updated look without major remodeling. It’s a fast way to cover flaws and match your style.

• Paint refreshes the look quickly. It covers marks, stains, and uneven tones, giving your walls a clean, consistent finish.
• Improves curb appeal: A painted brick exterior can look modern and simple, helping your home feel more up-to-date.
• Brightens dark surfaces: Light-colored paint can make heavy or dark brick feel lighter and more inviting.
• Works with many styles: Painted brick blends well with different design choices, from traditional to modern.
• Creates a uniform look: If your brick is patched, mismatched, or weathered, paint helps everything look even.
• Easy to personalize: You can pick a color that fits your taste and stands out in your neighborhood.

Drawbacks of Painting Your Brick Exterior

Painting brick involves trade-offs. You’ll need to manage maintenance and understand that the change is permanent.

• Blocks natural moisture flow: Brick needs to breathe. Paint traps moisture, which can cause peeling, mold, or long-term damage.
• Ongoing maintenance required: Painted brick needs regular cleaning and frequent touch-ups to stay looking fresh.
• Loss of natural look: Once painted, the original texture and color of the brick are permanently covered.
• Not ideal for harsh climates: Paint can wear out faster and require more upkeep in areas with strong sun, rain, or freeze-thaw cycles.
• Repainting every few years: A new coat is often needed within 5–10 years, which adds more time and cost in the long run.
• No going back: Once you paint brick, it’s permanent—you can’t easily restore the original surface.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Painted brick isn’t set-and-forget. A little upkeep helps it last longer and look good through the seasons.

• Regular upkeep is key: Painted brick needs cleaning and inspection to stay in good shape over time.
• Weather and sun affect durability: Moisture, sunlight, and temperature changes can wear down the paint.
• Clean gently: Use mild soap and a soft brush to remove dirt without damaging the finish.
• Watch for early signs of wear: Look for peeling, fading, or chalky patches so you can act before bigger issues appear.
• Inspect yearly: Check the surface at least once a year to catch problems early.

With regular checks and gentle cleaning, you can catch small issues before they turn into big repairs.

Conclusion

Painting the brick exterior can give your home a clean, updated look, but it takes planning and care.

Now you know how to prep, what products to use, and how to keep it looking sharp for years.

If you follow these steps, you’ll get a finish that lasts and avoid problems down the road. Just remember to work with the right weather, use breathable paint, and stay on top of maintenance.

Want more helpful tips? Check out our other home guides to keep your projects smooth and stress-free.