Are you tired of your brick home looking dull or outdated? You want to do something, but you’re not sure if painting over brick is a smart idea? Will it peel? Trap moisture? Devalue your home?
At WM Painting and Decorating, we’ve helped countless homeowners like you update their brick homes the right way—with long-lasting, weather-resistant finishes that actually enhance curb appeal.
In this blog, you’ll learn whether painting brick is right for your home, how to do it properly, and what to watch out for so you don’t waste time or money.
Should You Paint a Brick House?
Brick is known for its durability and charm, but it doesn’t always age well. Some bricks fade, stain, or clash with more modern styles. Painting the exterior can completely change how your home looks, giving it a fresh, updated feel.
That said, painting brick isn’t something to jump into without the facts. Brick is a porous material. If it’s not cleaned, sealed, and painted properly, the finish can peel, trap moisture, or lead to expensive repairs.
Many homeowners love the look of painted brick and are happy with the results. Others regret it because they didn’t fully understand what’s involved or used the wrong products.
So, should you paint your brick home? If your brick is in good condition and you’re after a new look, it can be a great choice. But it needs to be done the right way, with the right materials, and with a bit of planning.
How to Paint a Brick House Properly
Painting brick isn’t like painting other surfaces. It takes more time, more prep, and the right products to make it last. If you skip steps or use the wrong approach, you’ll likely end up with peeling paint, trapped moisture, or an uneven finish.
Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to doing it right:
1. Inspect the Brick
Start by checking the condition of your brickwork. Look for cracks, crumbling mortar, or signs of water damage. If the brick is damaged, those areas need to be repaired before you paint. Otherwise, the paint won’t stick properly.
2. Clean Thoroughly
Brick holds onto dirt, dust, and mould, especially in older homes. Use a stiff brush or a pressure washer on a low setting to clean the surface. For areas with mould or mildew, a mild detergent or vinegar solution can help. Let the surface dry completely—usually at least 24 to 48 hours—before moving on.
3. Prime the Surface
This step is often skipped, and it’s one of the biggest mistakes. Use a high-quality masonry primer designed for brick. This helps seal the surface and gives the paint something to grip. It also prevents uneven absorption, which can lead to blotchy results.
4. Use the Right Paint
Not all exterior paints are suitable for brick. Look for breathable, water-resistant masonry paint. This allows moisture to escape from inside the brick while still protecting it from the elements. Avoid regular wall or timber paints. They won’t last on brick and can cause peeling.
5. Apply Two Coats
Once primed, apply your first coat using a roller for flat surfaces and a brush for edges and mortar lines. Let it dry fully before applying a second coat. Take your time. Rushing this step can leave you with streaks or missed spots.
6. Check the Weather
Paint doesn’t bond well in extreme temperatures or wet conditions. Choose a period of dry, mild weather if possible. This helps each coat cure properly and reduces the risk of bubbling or flaking.
Best Paint Types and Finishes for Brick Homes
Choosing the right paint for all surfaces including brick is just as important as the prep work. Brick is a unique surface, it breathes, expands, and absorbs moisture. So, the wrong paint can lead to trapped moisture, bubbling, or early peeling.
Here’s what works best when it comes to painting brick homes:
1. Use Breathable Masonry Paint
This is the most important thing to get right. Breathable masonry paint allows moisture to escape from the brick while still providing a durable, weather-resistant finish. Look for products that say they are specifically made for masonry or mineral surfaces.
Popular options include:
- Silicate-based paint – Highly breathable and long-lasting
- Acrylic latex masonry paint – Flexible and water-resistant, suitable for most climates
Limewash (for a more natural look) – Breathable and traditional, though it may need more frequent touch-ups
2. Choose the Right Finish
For most brick homes, a matte or low-sheen finish looks best. It gives a more natural, timeless appearance and helps hide any imperfections in the surface. Glossy finishes can highlight uneven textures and often don’t suit brick.
3. Colour Considerations
While we won’t dive into colour trends here, it’s worth noting that lighter colours tend to reflect heat and make homes feel larger, while darker tones can give a more modern, dramatic look. Just make sure the paint you choose is UV-resistant so it doesn’t fade quickly over time.
Maintaining Painted Brick: Is It High Maintenance?
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have about painting brick is maintenance. No one wants to repaint every couple of years. The good news is, if the brick is properly prepared and painted with quality products, the upkeep is fairly minimal.
What to Expect Over Time
Painted brick can last 10 to 15 years or more, depending on the climate and how well the job was done. Over time, you might notice some fading, especially with darker colours or homes that get a lot of sun. This is normal and can be touched up easily.
Cracks or peeling often come from poor prep—skipping the primer, painting damp brick, or using the wrong type of paint. If the original job was done right, you shouldn’t see major issues for many years.
Simple Maintenance Tips
- Wash it once a year. A light clean with a garden hose or soft brush helps remove dirt, dust, and mildew.
- Touch up small areas. If you spot chips or worn patches, a quick spot-paint can keep things looking fresh.
- Inspect after extreme weather. After heavy rain, strong winds, or long heatwaves, check for damage around edges, gutters, or mortar lines.
Painted brick doesn’t need constant attention. It just needs the right start and occasional care to keep it looking sharp.
Is Painting Your Brick Home Worth It?
If you’re after a fresh, clean, and modern look for your home exterior, painting your brick can absolutely be worth it. It’s one of the simplest ways to boost curb appeal and make your home feel new again, without a full renovation.
And if you’re not sure where to start or want to make sure it’s done professionally, we’re here to help.
At WM Painting and Decorating, we specialise in transforming brick exteriors with expert preparation, premium materials, and long-lasting finishes. Get in touch today for a free quote or friendly advice.
