Upgrade your home's curb appeal with the best exterior paint for painted brick. Painting brick can be daunting, but with the right paint and these expert tips, you'll achieve a stunning, long-lasting result.
The key to painting brick lies in preparation and selecting the right paint. Today's paint market offers various options, each with its own advantages. Let's delve into the best exterior paint choices for painted brick.
Best Types of Exterior Paint for Painted Brick
Choosing the right paint ensures your brick's new look endures against weather and time.
1. **Masonry Paint**: Designed specifically for masonry surfaces like brick, masonry paint penetrates deep into porous surfaces, creating a durable, waterproof bond. It's available in a variety of finishes, from flat to textured, and can mimic the appearance of natural stone or stucco.
Masonry Paint Advantages
Masonry paint is flexible, allowing it to accommodate minor surface movement without cracking or peeling. It also resists fading, algae, and mold growth, extending the lifespan of your painted brick.
Apply masonry paint with a paint sprayer for even coverage. Use a roller or brush for touch-ups or to paint areas inaccessible to sprayers.
Masonry Paint Drawbacks
While masonry paint is durable, it's not the fastest-drying option, which can prolong the painting process. Additionally, it's not well-suited for surfaces with heavy mortar joints, as it may not penetrate deep enough to bond effectively.
The Role of Paint Finish in Exterior Brick Painting
The finish or sheen of your paint impacts its durability, maintenance, and appearance. Explore different paint finishes to decide which works best for your painted brick.
1. **Flat/No-sheen**: Offers excellent disguise for surface imperfections but is less durable and harder to clean than glossier finishes.
No-sheen Finish Applications
Flat or no-sheen paint is ideal for aged bricks with notable character or distress, as it accentuates their unique charm. It's also suitable for areas prone to bird droppings, as it resists stain absorption.
No-sheen Finish Maintenance
No-sheen finishes require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance. Use a mild detergent and soft-bristled brush to clean painted brick gently.
Color Picking: Tips for Painting Brick
Choosing the perfect color for painted brick starts with your home's architectural style and surroundings.
1. **Neutral Shades**: Neutral colors like beige, gray, or white create a sophisticated backdrop, allowing accent features to stand out.
Neutral Colors: Pros and Cons
Neutrals provide a timeless, low-maintenance exterior. However, they can make your home blend in with neighboring properties, so consider accenting with colorful trim or amenities to add personality.
Transitioning from painted to unpainted brick or vice versa can significantly alter your home's appearance. Take your time selecting the perfect paint color, considering your home's architectural style, roof color, and surrounding landscaping.
Finally, before you begin painting, ensure your brick is clean, dry, and free of any efflorescence or mildew. Prime your brick, using a primer designed for masonry surfaces, to enhance paint adhesion and protect against moisture. Then, sit back and enjoy your refreshed home exterior.