Our Complete Guide to Painting Your Brick House White

If you're considering painting the brick exterior of your home a crisp, clean white, you're part of a popular trend that instantly modernizes the facade. The look of a white brick house is lighter, brighter, and more eye-catching than leaving brick its natural color. Painting worn, aged brick can disguise any imperfections, while also boosting curb appeal and potentially increasing resale value.

But before grabbing a paintbrush, it's important to understand the process of painting brick and weigh the pros and cons. Selecting the proper paint products and prep work is key to achieving an even, durable finish that will last for years. Our complete guide covers everything you need to know, from assessing your existing brickwork to choosing the right white paint color.

Overview of Painting Brick Houses White

Painting brick exteriors white has become increasingly popular in recent years. The lighter, brighter look helps homes appear more updated and modern than traditional red or brown brick. It's a fast, affordable way to transform the look of your home's facade without taking on a major renovation project.

For older homes with damaged or worn brick, a fresh coat of white paint can hide any imperfections in the brickwork. Cracks, chips, discoloration and uneven surfaces seem to disappear. White also makes small homes appear larger, as light colors visually expand spaces.

In addition to creating instant curb appeal, painted white brick increases resale value. The brighter, lighter look helps homes sell faster and for more money in many real estate markets.

Should You Paint Your Brick House?

Before pulling out the paint cans, carefully consider whether painting the brick is right for your home. Look at the current condition of the brickwork to help inform your decision.

Assessing Your Brick Facade

Inspect the current state of your home's exterior brick walls. Is the brickwork in generally good shape with minimal flaws? Or is it riddled with cracks, chips, stains, and other imperfections? The existing condition influences whether painting makes sense.

Also evaluate whether the style of brickwork fits with the architectural style of your home. For historic homes or those with ornate brick detailing, painting over the original facade could negatively impact the home's character.

Finally, examine the mortar between bricks, which can crack and crumble over time. Repairing and repointing mortar provides a sound base for painted brick. Otherwise cracks will eventually show through the paint.

Considering the Pros and Cons

Before moving ahead with a painted brick exterior, weigh some of the key pros and cons:

Pros:

• Increases curb appeal
• Light, bright color modernizes home
• Wide range of color options beyond natural brick tones
• Disguises imperfections in brick surface
• Often increases resale value of home
• Cost effective update compared to replacing brick or siding

Cons:

• Permanent change that covers original facade
• A yearly maintenance commitment to keep it looking fresh
• Potentially higher cooling costs in summer
• Need to repaint every 5-7 years

Proper prep work and using high quality paints can help extend the life of painted brick. But maintenance will be required over time to keep your home looking its best.

Selecting the Right Paint for Brick

Choosing the right type of paint and finish plays a crucial role in creating a long-lasting, durable finish on brick. The paint needs to flex and stretch with the natural movement of the brick.

Paint Types and Finishes

Look for an exterior masonry paint specifically made for painting brick, concrete, stucco and other masonry surfaces. Avoid standard exterior house paints, which don't have the same elasticity.

For finish, consider flat, satin or semi-gloss sheens. Flat provides excellent adhesion, while satin or semi-gloss offer greater durability and easier cleaning. Semi-gloss is especially ideal for south or west facing walls.

Paint Brands for Brick

Quality paint brands formulated for exterior masonry include:

• Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Masonry, Stucco and Brick Paint
• Sherwin-Williams Loxon XP Masonry Paint
• Benjamin Moore Ultra Spec Masonry Exterior Paint
• Valspar Masonry Flat Exterior Paint

Stick to national brands or paints recommended by brick manufacturers for best results.

Paint Colors for Brick Houses

White and light neutrals like gray, taupe and cream are popular brick house colors. But black has also emerged as a dramatic, striking choice.

Consider exterior factors like your roof color and trims when selecting a shade. Complementary colors enhance the overall scheme. Trending combinations include:

• White brick + black window trim and accents
• Light gray brick + white windows and white roof
• Black brick + black windows + black roof

Test sample sized pots of paint directly on your brick. Natural light shows the true color.

Prep Work for Painting Brick

Proper prep work ensures paint adheres tightly to brick for maximum durability. Plan on dedicating ample time to cleaning, repairing, and priming.

Cleaning and Repairing Brick

Start by pressure washing the brick to remove dirt, dust, grime and mildew. Allow several days to fully dry before priming or painting.

Inspect closely and repair any cracked or missing mortar, which can cause water damage. Tuckpoint mortar for a smooth finish.

Use spackle or caulk to patch small holes, cracks or gaps in the bricks themselves. This prevents moisture getting behind the paint.

Priming the Brick Surface

Quality exterior masonry primer helps paint properly adhere to brick. Without it, paint may peel or chip sooner.

Look for primers like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Sherwin-Williams Loxon Concrete and Masonry Primer.

Thoroughly cover every inch of brick siding with a complete layer of primer. Then let dry fully before painting.

Painting Trim and Accents

Paint all window and door trim, eaves, corners and other accents prior to painting brick walls. This allows you to tape off trim with painter's tape for the main paint job.

Painting the Brick House

Once prep work is complete, the fun part begins! Follow these tips for flawlessly painting brick:

Setting Up Ladders and Equipment

Safety first! Position sturdy extension ladders safely and secure them with rubber stabilizer pads. Wear goggles, gloves, and clothes you don't mind ruining.

Gather high quality brushes for cutting in edges and paint roller frames and covers suitable for smooth masonry. Have pails for paint and disposable rags on hand.

Applying Paint with Rollers and Brushes

Pour paint into roller trays. Use an angled "cutting in" brush to paint corners, edges, and around windows. Allow to dry slightly before rolling.

Dip the roller in the tray and roll off any excess. Apply paint in a V or W shape then fill in to cover the area evenly. Work in 3-4 foot square sections.

Tips for Achieving an Even Coat

Brick has lots of nooks and crannies that need ample paint to avoid appearing patchy. Stick to the recommended coverage for your paint (usually 200-400 square feet per gallon for masonry paint).

Work methodically and carefully overlap edges of paint. Change rollers frequently to prevent clogging.

Drying Time and Curing

Let the first coat dry fully before adding the second coat. Drying takes about 24 hours in warm, dry conditions. Colder climates need 48 hours between coats.

Though dry to the touch in a day, full curing takes three to four weeks. Avoid scrubbing or power washing during this period.

Maintaining Painted Brick Over Time

While durable, painted brick does require periodic maintenance. Expect to do minor touch ups after a year or two. Plan on repainting every 5-7 years.

Regularly check for any worn areas or cracks forming in the paint, and touch up right away. This prevents moisture damage.

Gently clean painted brick with mild soap and water using a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pressure washing, which can strip paint.

Inspiring Examples of White Brick Houses

For a dose of inspiration, check out these gorgeous white brick homes shared on Instagram and Pinterest:

[insert photo examples and commentary]

Painting your brick home's exterior walls white or a light neutral shade provides an affordable makeover. But proper prep work and using high quality masonry paint ensures this major change holds up for the long haul.

Following the steps in our guide will get your brick walls smooth, even and white in no time. Just think of the incredible curb appeal and happier home you'll enjoy each day - and the potential boost to your home's value!