Brick houses exude a timeless charm, but like any exterior surface, bricks need maintenance to retain their aesthetic appeal. A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your brick home, making it stand out while protecting it from the elements. However, choosing the right paint for a brick exterior requires careful consideration. With various options available, it’s essential to pick one that enhances the beauty of your home while providing long-lasting protection.
In this guide, we explore the best paints for brick houses and why specialised paints are necessary for brick surfaces.
If you’re considering a brick home makeover, professional painters in Hobart can help you achieve the best results with the right paint and techniques.
Should You Paint Bricks?
Painting brick is a significant decision that can completely transform the look of your home. While brick naturally provides a classic appearance, some homeowners may feel that a coat of paint gives their home a more modern, sleek finish. However, painting brick is not as straightforward as painting other surfaces like wood or siding.
Pros of Painting Brick
- Modernise the Look: Painting brick can give a traditional house a more contemporary look, making it stand out in a neighbourhood of similar homes.
- Protection: Brick is naturally durable, but applying the right paint adds an extra layer of protection against harsh weather, moisture, and potential damage.
- Curb Appeal: A well-painted brick exterior can boost the overall curb appeal of your home, which is especially important if you’re looking to sell.
Cons of Painting Brick
- Maintenance: Once you paint brick, you commit to maintaining it. Over time, the paint may chip or fade, requiring touch-ups or a full repaint.
- Moisture Issues: If the wrong paint is used, it can trap moisture inside the bricks, leading to issues like mould or deterioration. This is why it’s crucial to choose the best house paint specifically designed for brick exteriors.
Why You Need Special Paints for Brick Homes
Brick is a porous material that requires a breathable paint to prevent moisture from getting trapped inside. Unlike traditional siding, brick can absorb moisture, which is why specialised paints are necessary. These paints allow moisture to escape while still protecting the elements.
Standard exterior paints, such as those used on wood or vinyl, aren’t suitable for bricks. They can lead to flaking, peeling, and moisture buildup, causing damage over time. The best house paints for brick exteriors are designed to adhere to the porous surface, resist wear, and prevent moisture issues, ensuring your home looks great for years to come.
Best House Paints for Brick Exteriors
Elastodynamic Paint
Elastodynamic paint is a great choice for brick homes because it is designed to expand and contract with the surface. This flexibility helps prevent cracks from forming on the brick surface due to temperature fluctuations. Elastodynamic paints also provide excellent water resistance, which is crucial for bricks that tend to absorb moisture. Their thick, rubber-like texture creates a protective barrier, ensuring your home is shielded from the elements while still allowing the brick to breathe.
This paint is ideal for older homes with bricks that have small cracks or imperfections. It can help fill in these minor cracks, offering a smooth and even finish.
Acrylic Latex Exterior Paint
Acrylic latex paint is one of the best house paints for brick exteriors due to its durability and versatility. It is highly resistant to the effects of harsh weather, including sun exposure, rain, and wind. Acrylic latex paint provides excellent adhesion to brick surfaces, ensuring the paint stays intact for longer periods without peeling or chipping.
One of the key benefits of this paint is its ease of application. It dries quickly, making it a practical option for homeowners who want a fast and efficient painting process. In Hobart, where the weather can be unpredictable, acrylic latex paint is a solid choice for ensuring long-lasting results.
Limewash
For homeowners who want to maintain the natural texture of their brick but still update the appearance, limewash is an excellent option. It gives bricks a softer, more weathered look that many homeowners find appealing. It’s made from natural materials like lime and water, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Limewash is breathable, meaning it allows moisture to escape from the brick without trapping it inside. This feature is especially important for brick homes in areas with fluctuating humidity levels. Additionally, limewash can be reapplied over time to refresh the look without the need for a full repaint.
Masonry Paint
Masonry paint is specifically designed for porous surfaces like brick and stone. It offers superior adhesion and weather resistance, ensuring the paint stays intact even in harsh conditions. Masonry paint is available in various finishes, including smooth and textured options, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic.
This type of paint is highly durable and provides excellent protection against rain, snow, and UV rays. Masonry paint is often used on commercial buildings, but it’s equally effective for residential homes. For homeowners looking for long-lasting protection with a wide range of colour options, masonry paint is one of the best house paints.
Mineral-Based Paint
Mineral-based paints, such as silicate paints, are another excellent option for brick exteriors. These paints bond chemically with the brick surface, creating a durable and breathable finish. They allow moisture to escape, preventing issues like mould and mildew growth.
Mineral-based paints are eco-friendly, and often free of harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them a safe choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. They are known for their longevity, requiring less maintenance than traditional paints.
Silicate Paint
Silicate paints are a type of mineral-based paint that offers a natural, matte finish. They chemically bond to brick, forming a long-lasting and highly durable coating. Because of their unique properties, silicate paints are extremely breathable, allowing moisture to pass through without causing damage to the brick.
They are also resistant to weathering, making them an excellent option for homes in areas with heavy rainfall or high humidity, like Hobart. These paints are also resistant to fading, so your brick exterior will maintain its fresh look for many years.
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Factors to Consider
When selecting the best house paint for brick exteriors, several factors influence the outcome of your project. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions, ensuring your home looks great and stays protected for years.
Durability
Durability is one of the most critical aspects when painting brick. Brick surfaces are exposed to various weather conditions, from intense sun to heavy rain. Opt for a paint specifically designed for exterior use on brick, such as elastodynamic or acrylic latex, to ensure it withstands Hobart’s diverse climate. Durable paints reduce the need for frequent maintenance, saving you time and effort in the long run.
Prep Time
Brick surfaces require proper preparation before painting. Old paint or dirt must be cleaned off, and any cracks or imperfections filled. Professional house painters in Hobart know that skipping these steps can result in peeling or chipping paint down the road. Be prepared for the prep phase to take as much time as the painting itself, ensuring a smooth and long-lasting finish.
VOC and Odour
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in some paints that can release harmful gases. Choosing low-VOC or VOC-free paints minimises odour and improves indoor air quality, particularly important in residential areas. Homeowners concerned about the environment or sensitive to smells should consider these paints.
Finish
The paint finish plays a significant role in the appearance of your home. Matte or flat finishes give a more traditional look, while semi-gloss or satin finishes add a touch of modernity. Choose a finish that complements the architectural style of your brick home.
Additives
Certain paints include additives for extra benefits like mould resistance or UV protection. These features can extend the life of your paint job and keep your home looking fresh longer. Certain additives can also improve the paint’s resistance to cracking and fading, particularly in areas with harsh sunlight. By choosing paints with these advanced features, you ensure your brick exterior remains vibrant and protected against the elements over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many layers of paint are required for brick?
Typically, two coats of paint are recommended for brick surfaces. The first coat acts as a base layer that bonds with the brick, while the second coat provides a smoother, more uniform finish. Depending on the type of paint and the brick’s condition, professional house painters in Hobart may suggest additional layers for enhanced durability and better coverage.
How long does paint last on bricks?
With the right preparation and high-quality paint, a brick exterior paint job can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years. However, factors such as weather conditions and the type of paint used can impact longevity. For example, elastodynamic and masonry paints offer superior durability, especially in areas like Hobart, where fluctuating weather conditions can wear down paint faster.
What type of primer is best for brick homes?
A high-quality masonry primer is ideal for brick homes. This primer helps the paint adhere better to the brick’s porous surface and provides an even base, especially if the brick is weathered or damaged. It’s essential to choose a primer designed for exterior use to ensure long-lasting results.
What is the simplest method for painting a brick house? Can it be done as a DIY project?
While painting a brick home might seem straightforward, it requires proper preparation and technique. The simplest method involves using a roller or paint sprayer for even application. However, due to the porous nature of brick, it can be labour-intensive. For the best outcome, hiring professional house painters in Hobart is recommended, as they have the skills and equipment for a flawless finish.
Is it necessary to apply primer before painting?
Yes, applying a primer is essential. Primer helps create a smooth surface for paint to adhere to, boosting durability and ensuring an even finish. Skipping it may lead to uneven coverage and early peeling. Get more information here about achieving effective painting results for your house exteriors.
Our Professional Painters in Hobart Use the Best House Paint for Your Home!
Choosing the best house paint is essential to ensuring long-lasting beauty and protection. AT Dyson Painters, our team of skilled painters in Hobart specialises in brick exteriors, using high-quality, durable paints that withstand the test of time. Whether you’re looking for a modern transformation or a classic refresh, we have the expertise to deliver flawless results.
Let our professional house painters in Hobart guide you through the process, from selecting the perfect paint to providing a smooth, professional finish. With our attention to detail and commitment to excellence, your home will stand out for all the right reasons.
Contact a 50-year old painting company today at 0417-580-981 or email us at admin@dysonpainters.com.au for a free consultation. Take the first step toward transforming your brick home with the best house paint!
