Enhancing the appearance of your home can be difficult. Sometimes, trimming foliage and pressure washing your sidewalks aren’t enough to boost your curb appeal. If your efforts to improve the appearance of your home exterior haven’t worked, you may consider painting your house. But, if your home is made of brick, you might not know if painting it is a worthwhile investment.
While painting your brick house might sound like a great way to improve the appearance of your home, it doesn’t come without its drawbacks. If you are considering painting your brick home but aren’t sure if it is the right move, keep reading to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of this major decision.
The Benefits of Painting Your Brick House
It is an Easy Way to Boost Curb Appeal
If you’re looking for a quick and relatively easy way to boost your curb appeal, painting your brick house is a great way to do it. A fresh coat of paint can quickly modernize an old, worn-out exterior. With various colors available, you can modernize your home to match your personal style and current architectural trends, helping your home stand out from those in your neighborhood.
It Protects Your Home from Weather Damage
While your home’s exterior is designed to withstand a great deal of wear and tear, it isn’t infallible. By painting your brick house with high-quality paint, you can create a protective barrier against the elements. It can help shield your bricks from moisture, mold, and mildew, which can cause deterioration over time. This added layer of protection can extend the life of your brickwork, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.
It is Low Maintenance
The last thing you want to do after updating your home’s exterior is hop immediately back into chores. If you paint your brick house, you won’t need to do that. Once painted, brick can be easier to clean and maintain. Dirt, grime, and other pollutants are less likely to penetrate a painted surface, making it easier to wash away with a garden hose. Painted surfaces can also mask imperfections and stains that are difficult to remove from natural brick.
It Boosts Your Home’s Value
Painting your brick house does more than just improve the appearance of your home. A well-painted brick house can increase your property’s market value. Potential buyers often appreciate the aesthetic appeal and perceived lower maintenance of a freshly painted home. This can be particularly beneficial if you plan to sell your house in the near future.
The Drawbacks of Painting Your Brick House
It is Difficult to Reverse
While painting your brick house may sound like a good idea, it may be more permanent than you realize. Once paint is applied to the brick, it is nearly impossible to restore the brick to its original appearance. This can be a significant drawback if you or future homeowners prefer the natural look of brick.
It is Susceptible to Moisture Damage
Improperly applied paint can trap moisture within the brick, leading to potential structural issues such as spalling or mold growth. To avoid these problems, it is crucial to use breathable, high-quality paint specifically designed for brick. Hiring a professional with experience in painting brick is often recommended to ensure proper application.
It Requires Frequent Cleaning
While a painted brick house may initially require less cleaning, it will need regular maintenance over time. Paint can chip, peel, or fade, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight or harsh weather. Repainting may be necessary every 5-10 years, adding to the long-term maintenance costs. If you aren’t looking for something that requires frequent care, it might not be the best choice for your home.
It Can be Costly
The initial cost of painting a brick house can be higher than you expect. It requires extensive preparation, including cleaning, repairing any damaged bricks, and applying multiple coats of paint. While it can add value to your home, the upfront expense can be a deterrent for some homeowners.
Is Painting Your Brick Best for Your Home?
If you are considering painting your brick house, there are a few things you should think about, including your home’s condition, style, and long-term goals. Consider the current state of your brickwork—if it’s damaged or unattractive, painting might offer a fresh solution. Additionally, think about the climate, as harsh weather can affect paint longevity. If you are struggling to decide whether painting your brick house is a good idea, you might want to consider speaking to a professional. They can help you determine if the benefits of painting outweigh the drawbacks.
Paint Your Brick House with Brush Brothers
While painting brick might not be for everyone, it may be the perfect choice for your home. If you’re ready to paint your brick house in the Ogden, Utah, area, turn to our team at Brush Brothers for support. As the leader in professional painting in the Ogden area since 2008, you can trust that we’re the perfect choice for this project. When we’re done with your exterior painting, turn to us for wood staining, interior painting, and more. If you’re ready to paint your brick house or if you have any questions for us about the services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
