Exterior brick painting for beginners: Ultimate guide

Exterior brick painting transforms your home’s appearance, modernizes its look and protects brick surfaces from moisture and weathering.

Painting directly on exterior brick is possible but risky without preparation. Uncleaned or damaged brick can cause peeling or moisture issues.

For a durable finish, clean, repair, and prime the surface first. Proper steps ensure painting brick delivers lasting, attractive results without costly problems

This in depth guide covers every aspect from inspection to priming and brick painting, ensuring success for homeowners taking on a large house brick painting project in 2025.

Applying paint straight onto exterior brick without preparation often leads to poor adhesion, peeling or damage.

Brick’s porous nature and exposure to weather require specific steps to ensure paint performs well. Here’s why skipping preparation can cause issues when painting brick exteriors.

These risks highlight the importance of preparing brick before painting.

Brick is a porous and durable material, but it requires careful preparation for exterior brick painting to ensure paint adheres properly and withstands the elements. 

Without proper prep, paint can trap moisture, leading to damage or premature failure.

Effective preparation creates a stable, clean surface, enhancing the longevity and aesthetic of your exterior brick painting project while protecting your home’s exterior.

This table outlines why preparation is critical for painting brick.

Before starting exterior brick painting, inspect the brick surface thoroughly to identify issues.

Check for cracks, spalling (flaking brick), or loose mortar joints, which indicate structural concerns.

Look for efflorescence (white, powdery deposits), signaling moisture issues. Examine for mildew, algae, or old paint that’s peeling or chalking.

For homes built before 1978, test for lead paint with a certified kit, as it requires special handling.

A detailed inspection ensures effective exterior brick painting by addressing problems early.

If lead paint is present, follow EPA guidelines, using wet sanding and HEPA vacuums to minimize dust. Hiring a lead-safe certified contractor may be necessary for safe exterior brick painting.

Persistent efflorescence or dampness suggests underlying water infiltration. Address drainage or sealing issues before proceeding with exterior brick painting to prevent paint failure.

Clean brick is crucial for exterior brick painting to ensure paint adhesion. Dirt, mildew, or efflorescence can cause peeling or uneven finishes.

Use a pressure washer at a medium setting with a 25-degree nozzle to remove dirt, algae, and loose debris, keeping the wand at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging mortar.

For mildew, apply a solution of one part bleach to three parts water, scrub with a stiff brush, and rinse thoroughly.

For efflorescence, use a masonry cleaner or vinegar solution. Allow the brick to dry fully, typically 48-72 hours, depending on weather. Thorough cleaning is essential for a flawless exterior brick painting result.

If the brick has old paint, use a chemical stripper or wire brush to remove loose or flaking layers, ensuring a clean surface for exterior brick painting.

For grease or oil stains, apply a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution, scrub, and rinse well to eliminate residue, preparing the brick for exterior brick painting.

Fixing damage is vital for exterior brick painting to achieve a uniform look and prevent further deterioration. Fill small cracks with acrylic masonry caulk, smoothing with a putty knife.

For larger cracks or spalling, patch with a mortar mix matched to the existing mortar color and texture.

Replace severely damaged bricks if necessary. Repoint loose or crumbling mortar joints with fresh mortar, ensuring a flush finish.

Allow repairs to cure, typically 7-14 days for mortar, before proceeding. These repairs create a stable base, enhancing exterior brick painting durability.

Remove loose mortar with a chisel, then apply new mortar with a pointing trowel, matching the joint style for a seamless exterior brick painting prep.

For spalling bricks, remove loose material and patch with a masonry repair compound, ensuring a smooth surface for exterior brick painting.

Tailor your paint and sealer choices to your region’s weather to maximize durability. In humid or rainy areas, prioritize breathable paints and sealers with mildew inhibitors to prevent moisture-related damage.

In dry, sunny regions, select paints with enhanced UV protection to resist fading and cracking.

For coastal areas, consider products resistant to salt corrosion. Check weather forecasts to avoid painting during wet or extreme conditions.

Research local trends to choose colors that boost curb appeal and marketability, and verify with your homeowners’ association (if applicable) to ensure painting brick is permitted and complies with regulations.

Weather significantly impacts exterior brick painting quality . Paint applied in extreme heat, cold, or humidity may crack or dry unevenly.

Aim for temperatures between 50°F and 85°F with low humidity, ideally in spring or fall. Avoid rain or high winds, which disrupt drying or carry debris.

Paint early in the day to allow drying before evening dew, and ensure the brick is dry to the touch. Smart timing ensures optimal exterior brick painting results.

Use a weather app to track humidity and temperature. A hygrometer confirms low humidity, ideal for exterior brick painting success.

Protecting adjacent surfaces simplifies cleanup during exterior brick painting. Use painter’s tape to mask off windows, doors, trim, or siding near the brick.

Cover plants, walkways, or patios with canvas drop cloths, which are durable and slip-resistant. Trim back vegetation to prevent paint from sticking to leaves.

Proper protection keeps your exterior brick painting project tidy and efficient.

Apply tape in short sections, pressing firmly with a putty knife for a tight seal. Remove tape before paint dries to ensure crisp lines for exterior brick painting.

Safe access is key for exterior brick painting, especially for multi-story homes or high brick walls. Use a stable ladder for low areas, or scaffolding and extension poles for higher ones.

Wear safety gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask, particularly when pressure washing or handling chemicals. Ensure good lighting to spot imperfections. For large or high brick surfaces, consider professional help for safety.

A secure setup enhances exterior brick painting quality.

Use a respirator for spraying or cleaning and non-slip shoes on wet surfaces, ensuring a safe exterior brick painting process.

With preparation complete, you're ready to paint your exterior brick for a professional, long-lasting finish.

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a flawless exterior brick painting process from start to finish.

Priming seals the porous brick surface and ensures paint adhesion, a critical step in exterior brick painting. Use a high quality masonry or latex primer designed for brick, which allows moisture vapor to escape while blocking water penetration.

Choose a breathable primer to avoid trapping moisture, which can damage brick. For previously painted brick, use a bonding primer to improve adhesion for exterior brick painting.

For highly porous or damaged brick, a second primer coat may be needed, ensuring a solid foundation for exterior brick painting.

Use a synthetic brush for edges and corners and a heavy-nap roller (¾-inch or thicker) for larger areas to apply one even coat, covering all surfaces thoroughly. Ensure the primer is alkali-resistant to handle brick’s high pH levels.

Check the product label for drying time, typically 4–24 hours, and verify the surface is dry and non-tacky before proceeding. This step creates a strong foundation for the topcoat, reducing the risk of peeling.

Selecting the appropriate paint is crucial for exterior brick painting durability and aesthetics.

• Type: Use a high-quality exterior-grade masonry or elastomeric paint, which allows moisture to escape and prevents damage, unlike standard latex paints that trap moisture.
• Finish: Opt for a flat or satin finish for a natural look and durability, suitable for brick surfaces.
• Color: Consider colors that enhance curb appeal, such as neutrals like white or gray. Test samples on a small brick area to confirm the look under natural light. The color of your brick paint plays a significant role in what color brick makes a house look bigger.
• Quantity: Estimate 1 gallon per 200-300 square feet for two coats. Measure your brick surface to calculate the amount needed.

Pro Tip: Check the paint’s label for temperature and humidity recommendations to ensure optimal application during exterior brick painting.

Having the right tools streamlines the exterior brick painting process and ensures precision.

• Brushes: Use a 2-inch or 3-inch synthetic brush for edges, corners, and mortar joints.
• Rollers: For larger brick areas, use a ¾-inch nap roller for even coverage on textured surfaces.
• Other Supplies: Painter’s tape, drop cloths, stir sticks, a paint tray, a pressure washer, and scaffolding or a ladder for access.
• Safety Gear: Wear gloves, safety goggles, and a mask to protect against dust and fumes.

Proper tools enhance efficiency and safety during the painting process.

Before starting, stir the paint thoroughly with a stir stick to ensure even color and consistency.

If using multiple cans, mix them in a larger bucket to avoid slight color variations.

• Test the paint on a small, inconspicuous brick section to confirm color and adhesion. Allow it to dry to ensure it matches your vision for the exterior brick painting project.

This step prevents color inconsistencies and confirms the paint’s suitability.

Begin painting with a steady hand for a smooth exterior brick painting finish.

• Technique: Use long, even strokes with the brush for edges and a roller for large areas, following the brick’s texture. Work in small sections to maintain a wet edge.
• Coverage: Apply in 3x3-foot sections to prevent lap marks, feathering edges for a seamless look. Ensure mortar joints are covered evenly.
• Timing: Start early in the day to allow drying time before evening dew. Avoid painting in direct sunlight, high humidity, or temperatures below 50°F or above 90°F, which can cause bubbling or poor adhesion.

Allow the first coat to dry fully, typically 4-6 hours for masonry paint, though check the manufacturer’s instructions for specifics.

With no cleanup required after a painting session, you can take a short break mid-project or wrap up your painting for the day; your brush stays ready without the need to clean.

Once the first coat is dry, inspect the brick for any missed spots, drips, or uneven areas. Lightly sand any imperfections with 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface.

Wipe away dust with a damp cloth to prepare for the second coat.

• This step ensures a polished exterior brick painting result, especially on visible areas like facades or entryways.

A thorough inspection enhances the final finish quality.

A second coat enhances durability and provides a rich, even color for your exterior brick painting project.

• Apply the second coat using the same technique as the first, ensuring even coverage over the brick and mortar.
• Pay extra attention to high-exposure areas like lower walls, which may need thicker coverage for added protection.
• Check for drips or pooling, smoothing them immediately with your brush.
• Allow the second coat to dry for at least 24 hours, or longer in humid conditions, to ensure a fully cured finish.

This step completes the painting process with a professional result.

Once the paint is dry, carefully remove painter’s tape at a 45-degree angle to avoid peeling fresh paint.

• Fold up drop cloths and clean brushes and rollers immediately with soap and water for latex-based paints or mineral spirits for oil-based paints.
• Inspect the brick for any touch-ups needed, using a small brush to fix minor imperfections. Store leftover paint in a sealed container for future touch-ups, labeling it with the date and area used.

Proper cleanup maintains the brick’s appearance and preserves tools.

To extend the life of your exterior brick painting, perform regular maintenance.

• Clean Annually: Wash brick with mild detergent and water to remove dirt and prevent mildew.
• Inspect Regularly: Check for signs of peeling, cracking, or fading every 6-12 months, addressing issues promptly.
• Touch Up: Use leftover paint to fix small chips or scratches before they worsen.
• Repaint: Plan to repaint exterior brick every 10-15 years, depending on climate and paint quality, to maintain protection and appearance.

Consistent maintenance ensures long-term durability and beauty.

If you’re hesitant about painting brick, consider these alternatives for a refreshed look without the permanence of paint:

• Cleaning and Restoring: Pressure washing or sandblasting can restore brick’s original appearance without paint.

These options may suit you if painting directly feels too risky.

Painting brick can impact home value, depending on your local market. Well-executed paint jobs with neutral colors like white or gray often boost curb appeal and attract buyers.

However, skipping preparation may lead to peeling or damage, deterring buyers. In markets valuing natural brick, painting might reduce appeal.

Painting straight onto exterior brick is possible but not advisable due to risks like peeling, moisture damage, and reduced durability. 

This article has outlined why preparation, cleaning, repairing, and priming is essential for a lasting finish.

By following these steps or exploring alternatives, you can achieve a beautiful, durable result for your brick exterior.