Paint Schemes for Red Brick Houses: 5 Inspiring Ideas: Compact fronts, bold choices: five paint schemes to refresh red brick houses with practical tips from a pro

I once convinced a client to let me paint only the window trim on their red brick bungalow and they accused me of witchcraft when the whole street suddenly looked fresher — true story. I love little experiments like that because small changes can spark big impact, and honestly I always believe small spaces can spark big creativity. If you want to preview a full makeover before lifting a brush, try a few 3D render mockups to avoid surprises.

1. Classic White Trim and Natural Brick

Keep the brick unpainted and paint trim, shutters, and porch elements in crisp white. It brightens the facade, keeps the masonry breathable, and gives a timeless contrast that rarely dates. The downside is you’ll want to clean white trim more often, but it’s a low-risk, high-return move for resale value.

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2. Warm Taupe Siding with Deep Charcoal Accents

Pair the red tones with a warm taupe on any added siding or gables, and use deep charcoal for doors and railings. This palette softens red brick without hiding its character, and it reads modern yet cozy. Be mindful that darker accents absorb heat on sunny walls, so choose heat-resistant finishes for longevity.

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3. Soft Sage Green for a Cottage Feel

Sage green on trim or a painted porch transforms red brick into an inviting cottage look. It harmonizes with brick’s earthy red and works especially well with gardens. If you want to test several combinations quickly, create a few visual mockups so you can compare tones in context before committing — budget-friendly and fast.

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4. Full Paint in Muted Clay for a Monochrome Statement

Painting the entire brick facade in a muted clay or terracotta gives a modern, monochrome sophistication while keeping warmth. This unifies mismatched bricks and hides age, but remember painted brick needs proper prep and breathable masonry paint to avoid trapping moisture. Plan on repainting sooner than unpainted brick — expect a refresh every 10–15 years depending on climate.

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5. Bold Black Door and Trim with Natural Brick

Let the brick do the talking and anchor it with a bold black front door and slim black trim details for a contemporary punch. It’s simple, dramatic, and inexpensive compared with a full repaint. If the kitchen faces the street or you’re coordinating outside to inside, test your choices against interior tones to keep flow — for example mock up your exterior and kitchen tones to ensure cohesive kitchen color layouts.

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FAQ

Q1: Can I paint genuine red brick?

Yes, you can paint real brick, but proper surface prep and a masonry primer are essential. Painted brick changes moisture dynamics, so use breathable exterior masonry paint and follow manufacturer guidelines.

Q2: What color makes red brick look less dated?

Soft neutrals like warm taupe, greige, and sage green modernize red brick without erasing its character. Accenting with deep charcoal or black keeps the look contemporary while preserving the brick’s warmth.

Q3: Should I paint the entire facade or just trim?

If the brick is in good shape, painting only trim is lower risk and easier to maintain; painting the whole facade hides imperfections but requires more maintenance. Consider full paint for mismatched or weathered brick, and trim-only for a classic update.

Q4: How often do painted brick surfaces need touch-ups?

Expect to repaint or touch up painted brick every 10–15 years, depending on exposure and product quality. High-UV or high-moisture climates may shorten that timeframe.

Q5: Any prep tips before painting brick?

Clean the brick thoroughly, repair mortar joints as needed, and use a masonry primer before topcoat. Proper prep is the best investment to avoid peeling and prolong the finish.

Q6: Which paint type is best for brick exteriors?

According to Sherwin-Williams, a 100% acrylic exterior paint formulated for masonry and a compatible masonry primer provide breathability and adhesion required for painted brick. Follow their product guidance for the best results.

Q7: Will painting brick lower my home’s value?

Not usually — tasteful, well-executed paint schemes often increase curb appeal and can boost value, but on historically significant properties, painting original brick can be discouraged. Check local preservation rules if you live in a historic district.

Q8: How can I preview colors before committing?

Create mockups using photos in natural light or use 3D renders and visual mockups to see paint behavior across seasons. Small trial patches on different facades at different times of day also give helpful real-world feedback.