Brick homes are classic, but they don’t always match your style or age gracefully.

Many homeowners are ditching the faded red for something more modern and inviting. Whether you’re aiming for a bold black, a fresh white, or something earthy to complement your landscape, paint opens up a world of options.

But here’s the thing: this isn’t like painting drywall. Brick is a whole different animal. It soaks up moisture. It moves with the seasons. It even has its own set of rules when it comes to prep and paint types.

This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about painting brick homes, from choosing the right products to avoiding the most common mistakes we see here in Parkton, MD. Whether you’re working with brickwork that’s decades old or a newer brick façade that just feels outdated, this guide will help you get it done right the first time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Painting brick helps update your home’s look and hide aging or stained areas.
  • Prep is everything—cleaning, mortar repair, and priming matter most.
  • Use breathable masonry paint to prevent trapped moisture and peeling.
  • Choose exterior paint colors that pair well with your roof and trim.
  • Hiring pros in Parkton, MD saves time, prevents damage, and gets better results.

 

painting exterior brick homes

What Painting Brick Homes Really Does for Your Property

Painting exterior brick is a smart way to refresh your curb appeal and protect your brickwork. Over time, weather and moisture can wear down your exterior. A fresh coat can hide stains, even out the look, and give your home a more updated style.

In places like Parkton, MD, where rain, snow, and heat all take a toll, paint can add a layer of defense—if the right prep and products are used.

Here’s what a good exterior paint job on brick can do:

  • Refresh the look without major renovation
  • Help prevent moisture from soaking into the brick and mortar
  • Cover old stains and uneven tones
  • Pair with updated features like your roof or front door
  • Add curb appeal that buyers notice

Before you start, it’s important to prep right. So next, let’s go over the brick painting steps that make the difference between a quick fix and a long-lasting finish.

The Prep Work Is Everything

Don’t skip this. If the exterior prep isn’t done right, your paint will fail—guaranteed. That includes cleaning, repairing cracks, and applying the right primer.

  • Pressure washing is step one. It gets rid of mildew, dirt, and loose mortar. Just don’t go too hard and damage the brickwork.
  • If you have efflorescence (those white chalky deposits), scrub it with a mixture of water and vinegar.
  • Repair mortar joints before you paint. Loose or crumbling mortar can lead to water getting behind the wall and ruining your fresh coat.

And yes, you’ll want to apply a masonry primer before your topcoat. It improves adhesion and seals the surface from moisture.

Choosing the Right Paint for Brick

There are plenty of paint options out there, but not all of them belong on brick.

  • Stick to breathable latex or elastomeric paint designed for masonry surfaces.
  • You want something that will allow moisture to escape. Trapping it under thick layers can lead to mold, blistering, or peeling.
  • Avoid high-gloss finishes. A soft matte or low sheen looks more natural on brick and helps maintain that cozy feel.

For areas like basements, chimneys, or the fireplace, consider waterproofing products, especially in Parkton where rain and snow are part of the equation.

Popular Exterior Paint Colors for Brick Homes

Color makes or breaks your curb appeal. Here are some of the most requested shades we see as exterior painters in Parkton, MD:

  • White brick for house exterior gives a clean, timeless look
  • Earth tones like taupe or warm gray pair beautifully with natural landscapes
  • Want contrast? A dark body with a bold front door color adds personality fast

If you’re working with red brick, check out our tips on house paint colors with red brick to avoid clashing

Thinking about going white? It’s trendy, but not always low maintenance. White shows dirt and mildew faster, so it’s good to understand the upkeep.

Should You Paint or Whitewash?

Some people aren’t sure whether to opt for full coverage paint or a whitewash finish. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Painting gives you solid, bold color. Better for hiding stains and aged brickwork.
  • Whitewash allows some of the natural texture and brick color to show through, creating a more rustic look.
  • Both are great options. It comes down to style preference and how much of the original building material you want to see.

Watch for Weather and Moisture

Brick is porous, so moisture control is key.

If you paint during a stretch of wet or humid weather, the paint might not stick or dry correctly. In Parkton, MD, timing is everything. Spring and early fall are usually your best windows.

We break this down more in our blog on weather mistakes when painting exterior if you’re curious about the best timing.

Also, inspect the mortar joints and look for signs of water damage. If moisture is already trapped inside, sealing it in with paint can lead to long-term damage.

Think Twice Before DIY-ing

You might be tempted to grab a brush or sprayer and tackle the job on your own. If you’re experienced, great. But for most homeowners, there’s a lot to get right:

  • Using the correct primer and paint for exterior brick
  • Knowing when to use a sprayer vs. a roller
  • Masking and covering landscaping, trim, and roof edges properly
  • Painting brick isn’t as forgiving as drywall. A bad job is hard to undo.

That’s why it pays to work with exterior painters in Parkton, MD who know how to handle concrete block, stucco, and masonry right the first time. We’re also happy to walk you through exterior paint types if you want to understand your options better.

 

Planning a Brick Makeover? Here’s What to Keep in Mind

Here’s a quick list to help you prep for a smooth renovation:

  • Fix any damaged brick or mortar before painting
  • Choose breathable paint and quality masonry primer
  • Don’t paint over wet or moist surfaces
  • Match your color to existing elements like the roof and façade
  • Think through how paint, stain, or whitewash will affect texture and style

Also, be realistic about how long the finish will last. Even the best paint jobs need a refresh every 7 to 10 years, especially in climates with rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles.

If you’re not sure whether your exterior needs a full repaint or just touch-ups, here’s a great read on signs to repaint your house exterior.

 

Final Thoughts on Painting Brick Homes in Parkton, MD

Painting brick homes in Parkton, MD is more than just a weekend project. It’s a big step in personalizing your home and protecting it from the elements. But if it’s done wrong, you could be looking at premature peeling, trapped moisture, or wasted money on products that don’t last.

That’s why it helps to work with local pros. Our team at FR Contractors and Investors, Inc. has helped countless homeowners update their brick exteriors with the right process, paint, and prep. We’re not here to upsell you. We’re here to help you make informed choices.

Here’s how we do it:

  1. Inspect and prep your brick with pressure washing and minor mortar repair
  2. Recommend the best exterior paint colors for brick homes
  3. Apply masonry primer and the right breathable paint finish
  4. Use high-quality brushes, sprayers, or rollers based on your surface
  5. Clean up thoroughly and check our work with you before calling it done

Whether you’re in Parkton, Yorktown, Phoenix, MD, or any of the surrounding areas, call us at 443-775-2994 for a FREE estimate and let FR Contractors and Investors, Inc. take care of your next exterior painting project!