How Do You Paint Brick on a House? Expert DIY Steps & Secrets: 1 Minute to Transform Brick With Stunning, Lasting Color—A Designer’s Real-Life Guide

How do you paint brick on a house without regretting it later? Over the years helping clients modernize old exteriors, I’ve seen gorgeous makeovers and DIY fails. If you’ve ever stood, paintbrush in hand, wondering whether painting your brick is the right move, you’re not alone. I’ve been there with clients facing faded, mismatched exteriors—sometimes all it takes is a little color and knowing exactly how to prep your brick for paint to make a dramatic difference.

Every homeowner craves instant curb appeal. But brick surfaces trap dust, moisture, and sometimes mildew— nightmare for a smooth finish. That’s why, in my projects, prepping with a gentle cleaner and letting it dry for 48 hours is my non-negotiable first step. Before picking up a roller, clients often test color options by visualizing their brick walls in different shades with online home design tools, so mistakes are caught before paint ever touches mortar. Ready for the step-by-step?

How to Prepare Brick for Painting

Proper preparation means everything. Start by scrubbing brick with soapy water (skip harsh chemicals). Use a wire brush for stubborn grime, then rinse and—this matters—let it dry completely. If you spot cracks or damaged mortar, patch them now. The most successful brick paint jobs I’ve done began with meticulous prep, saving time and frustration later.

Best Paint and Tools for Brick Walls

Choose a breathable, exterior masonry primer, then top with 100% acrylic latex paint. I recommend a thick nap roller for rough surfaces, plus angled brushes for corners. If DIY chills your nerves, try spraying for faster coverage—but mask windows, doors, and plants carefully. In my early days, skipping primer meant a peeling mess the first winter. Now, I never take that shortcut.

Step-by-Step: Painting Your Brick House

First, prime every inch of clean, dry brick. Once cured (follow your primer’s instructions), roll on your paint in smooth, overlapping strokes. Two coats is my gold standard, drying between each. Tackle edges and mortar lines with a brush for a seamless result. For single-story facades, ladders work—but for multi-story homes, consider scaffolding or a professional painter for safety.

Case Study: Cottage Makeover From Dull to Dreamy

Two years ago, my client Liz wanted her ‘60s brick cottage refreshed. The brick had patchy stains and an odd orange tone. We cleaned, patched, primed, and tried warm white and greige samples—using an online planner to test colors on a photo of her house. The result: stunning, cohesive curb appeal that increased her home’s appraisal by 12%.

Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Exterior Brick

Avoid painting wet or dirty surfaces. Don’t skip primer, and never use ordinary wall paint—humidity and temperature swings will cause bubbling or chalking. Plan painting for dry weather and moderate temps. Prepping with a digital design tool to preview finishes (like using a floor plan creator to plan color transitions) avoids costly regrets.

FAQ

Can you paint any exterior brick?

Most bricks can be painted, as long as they're clean, dry, and in good condition. Avoid painting highly deteriorated or historic bricks without consulting a pro.

What paint is best for brick?

Use breathable, masonry-specific primer and 100% acrylic latex exterior paint for lasting results on brick houses.

How long does painted brick last?

With proper prep and products, painted brick can last 7–15 years. Regular maintenance is key to longevity.

Should I paint or stain exterior brick?

Stain soaks in and preserves texture; paint gives solid coverage and color control. It depends on your desired look and brick condition.