Brick Painting: 3 Things to Know

Bricks are a staple when it comes to exteriors of homes. Beyond the traditional look, they are strong and sturdy for buildings. Many people assume changing the brick is as simple as painting a wall. Brick painting is a bit more intricate than that. In addition to basic painting skills and tools, you must know that there are five things to consider before taking on this project.

1. You Need Clean

Before you begin work, it’s recommended that you work with protective gear including gloves and eyewear while using the pressure washer. Chemicals and pressure from the washing can be harmful to you.

With a pressure washer, set your PSI to 1,500 pounds per square inch to scrub the bricks. Any more force and you run the risk of damaging the mortar. There are detergents available at big box stores to help remove mildew or efflorescence. This will also help remove dirt, grime and lose paint in the bricks. Be sure to protect plants in the way of runoff. Some of these cleaners can harm or kill flora.

Bricks are a porous material. Your bricks will need several dry days to completely dry. You do not want to paint over wet bricks and trap moisture inside. This can result in bubbling and peeling. Once the washing is completed, allow the brick plenty of time to fully dry. This will take a few days at least because brick is a porous material that traps moisture.

2. Choose the Right Color

If the bricks have lost their luster, or never really had it, you have a lot of options to add color to the brick portion of your home. Change the color with a perfectly painted solution. Whether you paint your brick exterior with natural hues, or something a little more vibrant, there are no color rules. CertaPro Painters® has a designated color consultant to make sure you get the best color for your home every time. Here are a few of our favorite hues:

• White: White can bring a sophisticated feel to a traditional brick home exterior, and is a great choice. The mortar texture can really add style to the white painted bricks. When paired up with another color for trim or the rest of your home’s exterior, white bricks go well with most colors.You can even use the white painted brick theme inside in the form of a fireplace.
• Black: While black seems counterintuitive, it’s the perfect way to showcase your bricks. Using the black against a bright brick creates the feeling of muted charcoal rather than strictly black. If you are considering a deep color like this in our area, remember the sun tends to leach pigments from colors. This will work best if your home is more shaded and protected from the sun. When paired with bricks, it is a timeless and secure look that will last through many seasons.

3. Remember to Maintain

Painted brick will require regular maintenance. Keeping your painted bricks in good condition will provide protection against failure and the elements. When working outside, taking UV Rays into consideration is important. Once the paint begins to fade, you’ll need to consider a repainting to protect the walls. Fortunately, maintaining brick is easier than keeping up with other home materials, such as siding.

Brick Painting with CertaPro Painters®

If you need help with your brick painting projects, call CertaPro Painters®! We are expert brick painters in the Castle Rock area, we always stay on budget and on time, and we can start your exterior painting project today. To get in touch with one of our professionals, call 303-688-2224 or fill out our free, no-obligation form. We look forward to working with you!