Transforming Brick with Paint: A Guide to Priming, Painting, and Enhancing Curb Appeal

Brick has long been admired for its durability and classic appeal. However, more homeowners and property managers are choosing to refresh their exteriors and interiors by painting brick surfaces. Whether you're looking to modernize outdated brick, brighten a dark fireplace, or unify a building's facade, painting brick is a smart upgrade. As a professional painting contractor, here’s how we approach the process — and why it can make a big difference.

Why Paint Brick? The Aesthetic Benefits

Painting brick can drastically improve the look and feel of a property. Here are some top reasons clients choose this update:

• Modernization: Painted brick instantly transforms older buildings, giving them a cleaner and more contemporary appearance.

• Color Customization: Whether you want crisp white, moody charcoal, or a bold accent color, paint allows full customization.

• Improved Curb Appeal: Freshly painted brick stands out and boosts property value by enhancing first impressions.

• Surface Uniformity: Paint hides discoloration, mismatched repairs, and weathered sections, creating a consistent finish.

• Interior Design Enhancement: For indoor brick surfaces like fireplaces, painting softens the texture and blends with modern decor.

  
  

How to Prime and Paint Brick: Step-by-Step

Painting brick is not like painting drywall or siding — it requires the right prep, products, and techniques to ensure a lasting finish.

1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly

Before any paint touches the brick, it needs to be clean and dry:

• Power wash for exteriors or scrub with a stiff brush and soapy water for interiors.

• Remove dirt, mildew, efflorescence (white powdery residue), and flaking material.

• Let the surface dry for at least 24–48 hours to avoid trapping moisture.

  
  

2. Repair Any Damage

• Inspect for cracks or missing mortar and use acrylic caulk or mortar repair to fill gaps.

• Allow repairs to cure completely before priming.

  
  

3. Apply a Masonry Primer

Brick is porous, so using the right primer is critical:

• Use a high-quality, alkali-resistant masonry primer such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Loxon Concrete & Masonry Primer by Sherwin-Williams.

• This prevents tannin or alkali bleed-through and ensures strong paint adhesion.

• Apply with a brush or roller designed for rough surfaces, and back-brush to work it into the pores.

  
  

4. Choose the Right Paint

Use 100% acrylic latex paint or elastomeric coatings for durability and flexibility:

• For exteriors: Products like Benjamin Moore Regal Select Exterior or Sherwin-Williams Duration provide excellent UV and weather resistance.

• For interiors: A high-quality latex paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish works well and is easier to clean.

  
  

5. Paint in Two Coats

• Apply two coats for even coverage, allowing full dry time between coats.

• Use a roller with a thick nap or an airless sprayer for large surfaces, and brush for tight areas.

  
  

Pro Tips for a Long-Lasting Finish

• Avoid painting brick that’s constantly exposed to moisture or isn’t structurally sound.

• Always check the weather — paint should only be applied in mild, dry conditions.