Wait at least one month (or the amount of time recommended by the paint's manufacturer) after the mortar wash's application before applying a paint layer.
Mix 1/4 cup liquid detergent soap per gallon of water. Use it and a scrub brush to clean any surface residue off of the wall. Rinse the wall of any soap residue with fresh water from a hose.
Allow the wall to dry for 48 hours.
Apply two coats of an exterior masonry paint to the surface of the mortar wash with a paint roller. Allow the first coat to dry for the manufacturer-recommended amount of time before applying the second coat. Follow the paint label's instruction for application and clean up methods.