What Kind of Paint Is for Bricks?

Outdoor Bricks

• Exterior bricks will require a special blend of paint called acrylic elastomeric coating. This paint is especially formulated to withstand the harsh elements that outdoor bricks must resist, such as sunlight, water, heat and chemicals. The coat that this paint creates also makes the brick resistant to mold and mildew associated with excessive water exposure. Acrylic elastomeric paint is sold in finishes that range from flat to high-gloss.

Indoor Bricks

• The rules are less strict when it comes to painting interior bricks. Cellar walls or fireplaces are common areas where brick is used indoors. Indoor bricks however, do not need to be as resistant to the natural weather elements as exterior bricks. Therefore, there is a wider choice of paints to use, from water-based latex paints to more pungent oil-based acrylics. The oil-based paints can penetrate deeper into the porous surfaces of bricks.

Primer

• Bricks that have never been painted before need to be primed before applying a finishing coat. The purpose of a primer is to ensure an evenly distributed finishing coat that is one uniform color. In the case of outdoor brick in particular, a primer coat will also be helpful in sealing the brickwork and protecting it from water and heat damage. Paint priming should be done with an exterior primer for outdoor bricks; a standard latex will work for indoor bricks.

Preparation

• The key to any successful painting job is preparation. There is no exception when it comes to painting bricks, especially exterior bricks, which need to be cleaned. Use a garden hose to wash the bricks with some mild detergent and bleach to rid them of dirt and dust. This will help the paint bond better. Allow one to two days for the bricks to dry completely. Bricks are porous and may appear dry, but may be still wet inside.