How to Paint Brick Walls

Learning how to paint bricks, regardless of the exterior or interior of your home, is a budget-friendly way to update your look. However, before you begin, prep work is necessary. ​

Reasons Homeowners Learn How to Paint Bricks ​

​

• If a brick fireplace is out of touch with the style of a room, it's less costly to paint than to swap the brick with another material.
  
• An application paint may lighten the sense of weightiness that a brick wall might convey.
  
• If the brick exterior of a house necessitates a transformation, a coat of color gives the property a clean look, increasing curb appeal and property value.
  

​Techniques to Follow to Ensure Color Success

​Step 1: Clean the Bricks

Dirt usually comes off with soapy water and a stiff-bristled brush. If the dirt is deep and embedded, use trisodium phosphate (TSP). A half-cup of TSP put into a bucket of water should get the job done. 
​
If you come across any mildew, apply mixture water and bleach, letting the solution stay on for an hour. Afterward, use a wire brush to scrub the area. Never use acid to clean bricks. 

After cleaning, wait a day to start painting.

​Step 2: Apply Primer

Based on the area of the surface, you want to paint, apply a layer of latex primer. Put extra coats on those areas that have been affected by mildew. Allow the primer to dry completely before doing anything else.

​Step 3: Choose Your Paint

Many paint professionals prefer the use of elastodynamic paint for brick. It has a high level of elasticity, making it ideal for stopping and filling cracks. Also, elastodynamic does well in any weather.
​
If you can't find elastodynamic paint, use regular acrylic latex paint. Acrylic latex paint is the best choice for exterior bricks. This paint type withstands mildew and rapidly vaporize any water that it absorbs.

​Step 4: Apply Paint

The simplest way to paint brick is with a paint sprayer. 

If you're painting a brick fireplace, paint rollers or brushes are enough. For individuals who possess no painting experience, these tools are the best. Pick a paint roller with a thick nap to guarantee excellent results. Several painting contractors suggest gloss or semi-gloss paint for painting exterior and interior bricks. This paint type showcases details and is easy to clean. 
​
Reach out to us at Rochester Painting for more brick painting tips.