How to Paint Outdoor Brick Pavers

Plan the right day to paint the brick pavers. The ideal day must have no chance of rain and be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow a minimum of 12 hours of available time to do the painting. Choosing the right day with the correct conditions determines how successful the finished product turns out. Not having enough drying time between coats or a rainstorm will result in wasted time and materials.

Clean the brick pavers completely. First brush the pavers with a stiff broom, removing as much dirt and sand as possible. Use 1 part bleach to 4 parts water and a multi-purpose scrub brush to scrub the bricks clean. Work from the top of the pavers heading down, and clean thoroughly. Rinse the brick off with a hose. Alternately, use a pressure washer to clean the pavers. Read directions carefully and use caution if using. Improper pressure washing could cause damage to the bricks. Allow the pavers to dry completely; absorb some of the water with a towel to speed up the process.

Get a clean bucket and put 1 part turpentine to 3 parts of paver paint in it. This is for the first coat only. The mixture adheres to the pavers better than pure paint, allowing the following coats to go down smoother. Apply the mixture to the pavers evenly with a paint brush or roller and let it dry. Drying time varies according to conditions, but allow at least 6 hours to dry.

Apply a second coat of undiluted paver paint. Use a brush or roller to make even strokes, applying a generous application of paint. Let the second coat dry completely. To decide if the brick pavers need a third layer of paint, consult the instructions on the paint manufacturer's label. If the pavers need a third coat, repeat this step.

Maintain the brick pavers by keeping them clean. Touch up broken or damaged pavers immediately to prevent water damage between the paint and pavers. Repaint every three to four years, or as needed with a fresh coat of paint.