Brick homes are a timeless part of the architectural landscape across Pickering and Oshawa—from charming heritage facades to modern suburban builds. While natural brick has its appeal, many homeowners are turning to painted brick for a fresh, updated look.

If you’re thinking of painting your brick home in the Durham Region, there are key steps to follow to ensure it lasts and looks incredible—especially with Ontario’s variable climate. Here’s what you need to know from the professionals at CertaPro Painters® of Pickering – Oshawa.

1. Check the Condition of the Brick First

Before you paint, inspect the condition of your brick. Brick must be clean, dry, and structurally sound before applying paint. In older homes especially, cracks or flaking mortar must be addressed.

Common signs of trouble:

• Efflorescence (white powdery residue)
• Crumbling mortar or spalling
• Moisture damage near the foundation

We offer masonry inspections and repairs prior to painting so you’re starting with a strong, stable surface.

2. Power Wash and Let It Fully Dry

Cleaning brick properly is a must. Any dirt, mildew, or chalking will prevent paint from adhering properly.

We recommend:

• Pressure washing with mild detergent
• Letting the surface dry completely (at least 2–3 days, depending on weather)
• Avoiding painting during wet or humid conditions common in southern Ontario

3. Always Use a Breathable, Masonry-Safe Paint

Not all paints are suitable for brick! Using the wrong product can trap moisture inside your walls, leading to peeling, blistering, and even structural issues in our freeze-thaw cycles.

We use high-performance products like:

• Sherwin-Williams® high-quality paints
• Acrylic latex paint with vapor permeability
• Masonry-specific primers if required

These paints are durable, breathable, and resist UV fading, which is key with our snowy winters and sunny summers.

4. Choose the Right Colour for Curb Appeal

Painting your brick is a big commitment, so it’s important to choose a colour that fits your home’s architecture and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Top exterior brick paint colours in Pickering & Oshawa:

• Classic white or off-white (brightens and modernizes)
• Charcoal grey or navy blue (striking, bold look)
• Warm taupe or greige (great for heritage homes)

Need help? We offer free colour consultations to help you visualize before committing.

5. Work with a Local Painting Expert

Painting brick is not a basic DIY job—it requires specialized prep, tools, and materials. A rushed or improperly done brick painting job can be costly to fix.

At CertaPro Painters® of Pickering – Oshawa, we:

• Provide custom quotes and full inspections
• Use commercial-grade equipment and scaffolding
• Apply two coats for even coverage and long-term durability
• Clean up thoroughly and protect landscaping and trim

Should You Paint Brick in Ontario?

Painting brick isn’t for everyone, but when done right, it can completely transform a home’s appearance and boost resale value. With our harsh winters and humid summers, it’s essential to work with a team that understands how to paint brick in Canadian climates.

Thinking about painting your brick home in Pickering or Oshawa? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and expert guidance from your local CertaPro Painters® team.