Painting brick homes is one of those topics that sparks a lot of debate. Some people will tell you it should never be done, while others say it’s no problem at all. The truth lies somewhere in the middle. Yes, brick is breathable and designed to let moisture flow through, but with the right preparation and products, painting brick is not only possible but also long-lasting.
In this post, we’ll walk through what you need to know before painting brick, the risks involved, and how modern paint technology has made this project safe and effective when when the right professionals handle it.
Why People Say You Shouldn’t Paint Brick Homes
Brick is a porous material that naturally allows water and humidity to pass through. This “breathability” is one of the main reasons homeowners are often warned against painting it. When you paint brick improperly, you risk creating a vapor barrier that traps moisture inside. Over time, this can lead to deterioration, cracks, and other costly damage.
That said, advances in paint technology have changed the game. High-quality masonry primers and breathable finishes are specifically designed to protect brick while still allowing moisture to escape.
When Painting Brick Makes Sense
If you’re considering painting your brick home, here are a few scenarios where it’s often a good choice:
- Aesthetic update – A fresh coat of paint can modernize the look of an older brick home.
- Uneven coloring – If your brick has discoloration or mismatched tones, paint can unify the exterior.
- Paint-ready products – New construction sometimes uses “paint-ready brick,” which manufacturers specifically design for paint.
We know deciding to paint your brick can feel intimidating. It’s completely normal to worry about whether it will look right or hold up over time. Many homeowners feel the same way when taking on a project like this, but the key is preparation and product choice. With the right guidance and the right materials, painting brick can actually be a rewarding transformation! It’s okay to feel cautious. It just means you care about getting it done right.
Proper Preparation Is Everything
Proper preparation is the key to success when painting brick homes. Taking the time to clean, repair, and prime your surfaces ensures a long-lasting, beautiful finish. If you skip this groundwork, even the best paints won’t hold up. We understand that prepping brick can feel like a lot of work. Pressure washing, repairing cracks, and waiting for it to dry isn’t exactly fun. But taking the time now saves you from bigger headaches later, and it’s worth it when you see the finished result.
Here are the most important steps to get brick ready for paint:
- Let the brick dry out – Unless it’s paint-ready brick, new masonry needs time to cure and dry before painting.
- Pressure wash thoroughly – A deep cleaning removes dirt, mildew, and debris so the primer adheres properly.
- Repair and caulk – Fill any cracks, holes, or gaps to create a smooth, sealed surface.
Taking time on these steps ensures a strong foundation and prevents future paint failures.
Choosing the Right Products
The right products make all the difference when painting brick. At our company, we use proven primer-and-finish systems designed specifically for masonry.
One option is Sherwin-Williams’ Loxon line, which includes breathable masonry primers and durable topcoats. These products allow trapped moisture to escape, preventing issues like efflorescence and deterioration. For example, the Loxon Concrete & Masonry Primer Sealer offers high water vapor permeability, meaning your brick can still “breathe” even after you apply a coat.
You can learn more about these products directly from Sherwin-Williams’ Loxon line. Paired with a topcoat like Loxon XP, you get strong adhesion and long-term durability without suffocating the brick.
Trust the Professionals
Even the Brick Industry Association recommends hiring an experienced professional painter for this kind of work. Painting brick homes requires an understanding of the material, proper prep work, and the right product system.
Tackling such a permanent project can feel overwhelming, but having the right team makes all the difference. From Grand Rapids to Muskegon, we’ve painted over 100 brick homes, bringing our expertise to homeowners across West Michigan and beyond.
Ready to Transform Your Brick Home?
Yes, you absolutely can paint your brick, but it’s not a project to take lightly. With the right contractor, preparation, and products, your painted brick home can look stunning while remaining structurally sound.
If you’re ready to explore painting your brick home, contact us today! Our team has the experience, tools, and knowledge to get the job done right the first time.
