If you have a Bay area brick home, have you updated its appearance recently? Contrary to what people think, you can update your brick home in colors other than white. As part of the process for any Livermore area home you should consider brick waterproofing as well.

In fact, the possibilities are endless when it comes to painting your home’s brick facade. It is essential for maintaining your home’s curb appeal and increasing property value. Painting brick offers a simple yet effective way to achieve a fresh, modern look, transforming outdated exteriors into stylish, contemporary homes.

Choosing the right color

Tips for selecting colors that complement brick textures:

• Consider the undertones: Identify the natural undertones in the brick, such as red, brown, or gray, and choose paint colors that harmonize with these tones.
• Highlight texture: Lighter shades can accentuate the brick’s texture, while darker shades may downplay it. Choose based on whether you want to emphasize or soften the brick’s texture.
• Balance with surroundings: Consider the color of your roof, landscaping, and nearby homes to ensure the brick color complements the overall environment.
• Test samples: Always test paint samples on the actual brick to see how the color interacts with the texture and natural light.

Popular color choices for painted brick homes

• Gray is a versatile and modern choice that works well with various brick tones.
• Deep charcoal offers a bold, sophisticated look, especially for accent walls.
• Soft beige or taupe provides a warm, neutral backdrop that complements many brick types.
• Muted greens or blues add a touch of color while maintaining a subtle, elegant appearance.
• Black creates a striking, contemporary look, especially when paired with contrasting trim.

These tips should help you choose a brick color that enhances your home’s style and character.

Preparation and cleaning

Steps for correctly preparing brick surfaces for painting

Cleaning the surface:

• Remove dirt, mold, and mildew using a wire brush or pressure washer.

• For stubborn stains, use a mixture of water and trisodium phosphate (TSP).

• Rinse the surface thoroughly and let the brick dry.

Repairing damaged areas:

• Inspect the bricks for cracks, chips, or damaged mortar.

• Repair cracks with acrylic caulk and allow it to cure.

• For more extensive mortar repairs, use a mortar patching compound and ensure it fully cures before painting.

Removing old paint:

• Scrape off any loose or peeling paint with a wire brush or scraper.

• Use a chemical paint stripper if necessary for stubborn areas.

• Sand the surface lightly for a smooth base.

Applying a masonry primer:

• Choose a high-quality masonry primer to seal the brick and provide a better surface for the paint to adhere.

• Apply the primer evenly. Let it dry thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Caulking gaps and joints:

• Caulk around windows, doors, and other gaps to prevent moisture intrusion.

Final inspection:

• Ensure the surface is smooth, dry, and dust-free before painting.

Importance of cleaning and repairing bricks before painting

• Proper adhesion: Clean and repaired surfaces ensure that paint adheres well, reducing the risk of peeling and flaking.
• Durability: Addressing damage and using a primer protects the bricks from moisture, extending the life of the paint job.
• Aesthetic finish: Proper preparation results in a smoother and more professional-looking finish.

Painting techniques for brick

Best practices for applying paint to brick surfaces

Surface Preparation:

• Clean the brick thoroughly with a wire brush, detergent, and water to remove dirt, dust, and loose mortar.

• Allow the brick to dry completely, as moisture can prevent paint adhesion.

• Repair any cracks or gaps with mortar or filler and allow it to cure.

Priming:

• Apply a high-quality masonry primer to ensure proper adhesion. A primer also helps to seal the porous surface of the brick.

• Let the primer dry as per the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying paint.

Choosing the right paint:

• Use a breathable exterior paint specifically designed for masonry, such as acrylic latex paint.

• Opt for paint that is mildew-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Recommended tools and methods for a smooth and even finish

Tools:

• Roller: Use a roller with a thick nap (¾ inch or more) to reach into the textured surface of the brick.

• Brush: A high-quality, stiff-bristle brush is essential for cutting edges and painting mortar joints.

• Sprayer: For larger areas, consider using a paint sprayer to achieve an even coat and reduce the time needed.

Methods:

• Cutting in: Start by cutting in around edges, windows, and doors with a brush.

• Rolling: Use a roller for the larger surfaces, applying paint in a “W” or “M” pattern for even coverage.

• Spraying: If using a sprayer, keep it at a consistent distance from the surface and move it steadily to avoid drips and uneven layers.

• Multiple coats: Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing sufficient drying time between coats for durability and a uniform finish.

Accent and trim colors

When working with brick exteriors, choosing the right accent and trim colors can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic of your San Ramon home. Here’s a brief overview:

Accent colors for brick

• Complementary colors: For red brick, colors like deep greens, navy blues, or rich browns can provide a beautiful contrast. For lighter bricks, consider darker shades like charcoal or black to add depth.
• Neutral shades: Grays, taupes, and creams work well as subtle accent colors, allowing the brick to remain the focal point while adding a modern touch.
• Bold contrasts: To make a statement, pair brick with bold colors like teal, mustard yellow, or even black. These colors can create a striking visual contrast that draws attention to architectural features.

Trim, doors, and windows

• White or off-white: A classic choice that works with almost any brick color, white trim provides a clean, crisp outline that enhances the brick’s natural texture.
• Black or dark gray: These colors offer a modern and sophisticated look, especially against lighter brick. They add drama and can make the windows and doors stand out.
• Earthy tones: For a more natural look, consider using earthy tones like sage green, olive, or warm beige. These colors blend well with brick, creating a harmonious and inviting appearance.
• Bold accents on doors: A brightly colored front door in red, blue, or yellow can serve as a focal point, adding personality without overwhelming the overall design.

Choosing colors that complement or contrast the brick can elevate the look of your home, making it stand out while ensuring the brick remains the star of the show.

Protecting and maintaining painted brick

Sealing and protecting painted brick

• Use a quality sealer: After painting, apply a breathable masonry sealer to protect the brick from moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Choose a sealer designed for painted brick.
• Check for cracks: Inspect the brickwork for any cracks or gaps and fill them with a high-quality, exterior-grade caulk before painting to prevent water infiltration.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: When cleaning, use mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the paint and sealer.

Regular maintenance

• Annual inspection: Check the painted brick annually for any signs of peeling, chipping, or fading. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
• Touch-up paint: Keep some of the original paint for touch-ups. Regularly repaint areas that show signs of wear to maintain a consistent look.
• Clean gently: Use a soft-bristle brush or a low-pressure washer to clean the brick, avoiding high pressure that could strip the paint.

Sealing the brick and performing regular maintenance lets you keep the painted brick looking fresh and protect it from the elements for years.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

When painting brick houses in the Tracy area, several common mistakes can lead to peeling, cracking, and uneven coverage. Here’s a breakdown of these errors and tips on how to avoid them:

Frequent mistakes in painting brick houses

Skipping the cleaning process:

• Mistake: Not cleaning the brick surface before painting. Dust, dirt, and mildew can prevent paint from adhering correctly.

• Solution: Power wash or scrub the bricks with a stiff brush and a mix of water and detergent. Allow the bricks to dry completely before painting.

Using the wrong paint type:

• Mistake: Using regular house paint instead of paint formulated for masonry.

• Solution: Use a breathable, acrylic latex paint designed for exterior masonry to allow moisture to escape, preventing peeling and cracking.

Insufficient priming:

• Mistake: Not applying a primer or using an incompatible primer.

• Solution: Apply a high-quality masonry primer after cleaning. It ensures better adhesion and prevents moisture from seeping into the bricks.

Painting in poor weather conditions:

• Mistake: Painting in extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight leads to uneven drying.

• Solution: Choose mild, dry weather for painting. Ideal conditions are temperatures between 50°F and 85°F, with low humidity.

Neglecting to repair damaged bricks:

• Mistake: Painting over cracked or deteriorating bricks without making repairs.

• Solution: Patch cracks and replace damaged bricks before painting to ensure a smooth, even surface.

Applying thin or uneven coats:

• Mistake: Apply paint too thinly or unevenly, leading to patchy coverage and potential peeling.

• Solution: Apply paint in two to three even coats, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Tips for avoiding peeling, cracking, and uneven coverage

• Surface preparation: Invest time in cleaning, repairing, and priming the brick surface.
• Paint selection: Choose high-quality masonry paint and primer.
• Application techniques: Use a roller for even coverage on flat surfaces and a brush for crevices. Avoid over-brushing to prevent thin spots.
• Drying time: Allow sufficient drying time between coats, and be mindful of weather conditions.

Conclusion

Transforming your Pleasanton home’s exterior or interior with a fresh coat of paint can make a dramatic impact, and painting brick is an excellent way to add character and modern appeal. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s curb appeal or revamp an interior space, don’t hesitate to explore the possibilities that painted brick can offer.

If you’re looking to spruce up your brick home but want a professional and flawless finish, contact Custom Painting, Inc. today. Call us at 925-294-8062 or message us on our contact page for a free estimate. Our paint specialists are dedicated to providing quality service and customer satisfaction!