Debating the Question: “Should I Paint My Brick House?” Learn Everything You Need to Know
Whether you own a house in Syracuse, NY, or a townhome in Savannah, GA, amassed in a worn brick exterior, you may be debating whether you should paint your brick.
In this Redfin article, we unveil the pros and cons of painting your brick house and expert tips that will help transform your place into a neighborhood standout. Now, let’s get started.
The pros of painting your brick house
Adds curb appeal
Debating whether or not you should paint your brick house isn’t only for those looking to reinvigorate their forever home. Jackie, owner of Savvy Farmhouse Design Co, adds how painting your brick home “can give an updated look for those looking to sell their homes.”
Rather than taking on lengthy and costly projects to prepare your home to hit the market, Jason Conners with Yellow Rose Painting shares how this can be a “cost-effective way to transform the curb appeal of your home” and ultimately attract buyers.
Increases exterior protection
For regions that experience extreme weather conditions, Siobhan Costain with Syracuse, NY Painters shares that “when done correctly, painting a brick house can help protect your home from the sun, environmental and weather conditions, and lastly water.”
Enhances home insulation
If you want to add an extra layer of insulation to your home, the team at Herringbone & Brass shares how “painting your brick can lead to improving your home’s insulation.” This will help when it comes to controlling the temperature within your home during varying seasons.
It is easier if you already have painted brick
While painting your brick home is a forever decision, Woody, owner and CEO of The Brick Painters, suggests that making the decision to paint your brick house can be easier “if it has already been painted.”
Cons to painting your brick house
There’s no going back
The most crucial point to consider when debating whether or not you should paint your brick house is that it is irreversible. Denine Jackson of Denine Jackson Interiors shares that “there is no going back to bare brick.” Therefore, you’ll want to be sure that the existing shade and vintage aesthetic isn’t one you’ll wish back in the future.
Painted brick requires continued maintenance
Painted brick requires regular maintenance. Over time, the paint can chip, fade, or peel, requiring touch-ups or repainting to keep the house looking its best.
Historical or architectural significance
If your brick house has historical or architectural significance, painting it may diminish its value or authenticity. It’s essential to consider the historical context and potential impact on property value.
Alternatives to paint
Jason Lindaman with BrickImaging Masonry Staining suggests “looking into alternatives such as staining.” He shares how staining “allows masonry to continue breathing, making it maintenance-free for decades.”
For those who decide to stain their brick rather than paint it, Lais Amaral, designer for Millhawlk Design & Architecture, recommends “seeking a water-based product that allows the brick to breathe and reinforce the waterproofing of the structure.” She adds to “follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wall preparation.”
Tips for painting your brick house
Properly prepare your home’s brick
Worn brick has contracted years of dust, dirt, and grime. Therefore, you’ll want to be sure you’re thoroughly preparing your home before applying paint. Brad Ellison, owner of Ellison Painting, suggests that “the first time brick is painted is the most important time.” He advises that brick be “properly cleaned, prepped, and primed with a specialty masonry primer” before painting.
Anticipate weather conditions
The last thing you want is for your plans to revamp your home’s curb appeal to be foiled. Monitoring the weather forecast is critical when planning to paint the exterior brick on your home. The team with White Marble Construction recommends checking that there “is no rain scheduled within 72 hours of painting your brick.”
Apply multiple coats
Similar to painting interior walls, when you’re planning to paint your brick house, Don Naegele with Naegele & Sons Painting shares that “painting your brick will require at least two, and possibly three coats of paint.”
Use a limewash paint
Different paint types are intended for surfaces, textural desires, and aesthetics. Amanda Dunn with James Alexander Specialty Paints recommends limewash paint, which “is a natural mineral-based paint with transformative properties.” She adds that “when applied to bricks, it can enhance the inherent beauty and give your home a fresh, yet timeless appeal.”
Jim with 3S Painting also shares that “limewashing offers a more traditional and softer appearance that requires less maintenance in the long run.” He adds, “this method allows the brick to breathe and minimize moisture issues.”
Pay attention to your paint selection
The fun part is choosing your paint selection. From color to texture, this is where your vision begins to come to life. Faye Smith with Faye Smith Interior Design recommends “Italian paint made by RomaBio.” She states that these mineral masonry paints “bond to brick in such a way that the claim is you’ll never repaint.”
Soni Konduru, the principal designer for Daastann Interior Design Studio, offers insights for making color selections. “White is a timeless choice that gives a clean, crisp appearance,” she says. “Shades of gray are more popular for a modern and sophisticated appearance, and beige or taupe are versatile tones that blend well with natural surroundings.”
The post Debating the Question: “Should I Paint My Brick House?” Learn Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.
