Brick homes have a stately look that says this house is secure. Bright red brick in its new, pristine status is regal but after a few seasons, the brick can lose its luster. Updating bricks is necessary for look and maintenance. You have two options. Should you choose brick staining vs painting? You may not have known you can modify the look of your brick while adding a protective layer. Both brick painting and brick staining will add a new luster to their colour and protect them from the elements. Neither is an easy task but will yield great results. Our professional brick painters are here to help you decide which is the best for your home.

Brick Painting

Painting bricks can completely change the colour of the stones with an opaque option. This gives you many options for colours but must be precisely done to create lasting results.

Bricks must be completely clean to allow the paint to adhere to it. This requires a rigorous brushing with trisodium phosphate. If the bricks were painted prior to this, it will need to be completely sandblasted off.

Next, apply a stain-blocking, oil-based primer to create a good tooth for the paint. This will protect the brick from dirt and soot, especially if you are painting a fireplace. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply a layer to the entire area.

After the primer has dried completely, put at least two coats of exterior paint appropriate for bricks on the stones. Bricks are not a smooth surface and have quite a few porous traits. Two coats might not cover each uneven surface. Do not be afraid to add another layer.

Pros and Cons of Brick Painting

Painting bricks allows you to protect the surface of the stones. Also, because more colours are available, you’ll have a wider selection to choose from. Once bricks are painted, they will likely need to be redone every five years or so. So in a few years you will need to remove the paint and start over. The bricks can hold onto moisture so it’s imperative to allow the stones plenty of time to dry. Otherwise, painting will only trap the moisture inside. This could cause the paint to peel off prematurely. Using paints made for porous bricks will help alleviate this problem.

Staining Brick

The second option to change the look of your bricks is with staining. This will preserve the natural look while protecting it from environmental factors.

Again, you’ll need to completely clean the bricks with a mild detergent. Follow that up with a water-based stain. These options are easy to apply and allow the brick to breathe, preventing the moisture build up we see with paint. When you shop, inform your salesperson that this is for a porous brick.

Pros and Cons of Stains

Stain is the best option to maintain and protect bricks while allowing the natural porous nature to continue. To determine if your bricks can be stained, throw water on the bricks. If it runs off without absorbing, it’s likely already sealed. This means you’ll have to remove the sealant with thinner or brick sealer stripper before proceeding. Always test a small patch first to make sure the bricks won’t be ruined.

Schedule an Estimate

If you need help painting your brick exterior, CertaPro Painters® of Surrey/White Rock/Langley/North Delta can help! We have dedicated colour consultants that look at your space and help choose the best colour for your home. Additionally, we have a variety of exterior painting services to make all of your dreams come true. We are expert painters in the British Columbia area. Our professionals always stay on budget and finish on time. Even better, we can start your exterior painting project today! To get in touch with one of our professionals, call 604-879-4462 or fill out our free, no-obligation form. We look forward to working with you!