How To Paint Brick
Brick is one of the best exteriors because of how low maintenance it is and how well it reinforces any structure. It’s such a versatile material that it can be used in the interior and exterior of homes. On top of that, it can be painted.
When it comes to painting a brick surface there’s nothing out of the ordinary, there’s only a few extra steps compared to painting drywall. Depending on the condition of the brick, you’ll either be doing harm or good, aesthetically speaking of course. A brick fireplace painted over with white paint can be an upgrade, especially if it has some wear and tear, so some paint will do it justice.
However, a brand-new brick wall is best left alone since the brick is at its peak and if you pick a nice brick and mortar there’s really no need to paint it. The exception being a brick and mortar you bought specifically to be painted over.
Whatever the case, here are some guidelines to follow if you’re fully convinced on painting a brick surface.
What Kind Of Paint Should You Use?
Acrylic latex or elastomeric paint is your best bet when it comes to painting outdoor brick. Acrylic latex is the better option when it comes to exterior brick because it is resistant to mildew and moisture, but elastomeric paint has a high-level elasticity which is great for filling in cracks that a brick wall might have.
Overall, both are resistant to the elements and resistant to the inevitable mildew build up but acrylic latex has a slight edge. Gloss paint will work for interior brick and is cheaper than the other two options. These paints are some good options depending on what you’re looking for.
If you’re unsure on whether you should use primer, the answer is yes, you should use primer on your brick wall. Before you even begin to apply primer you’ll want to inspect and clean the surface first.