Painted brick can add charming character to any home, but over time, even the most durable paint job can start to show its age. Recoating your painted brick gives your home's exterior new life, protecting it from the elements and boosting curb appeal. With proper techniques and high-quality products, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting finish that will make your neighbors green with envy.

Exterior Paint Prep School: Getting Your Brick Ready for Its Makeover

Proper preparation is essential before you paint for a flawless finish. Start by thoroughly cleaning your brick. A pressure washer can be your best friend, blasting away dirt, grime, and loose paint. For stubborn stains or mildew, a gentle scrub with a wire brush and a mixture of water and trisodium phosphate (TSP) will do the trick.

Once clean, allow the brick to dry completely. This may take a day or two, depending on weather conditions. Use this time to inspect the surface for any cracks, chips, or areas of loose mortar. Repair these imperfections with masonry caulk or mortar patch to ensure a smooth canvas for your new paint job.

Prime Time: Laying the Groundwork for Painted Brick Greatness

A high-quality primer is essential for a durable, long-lasting paint job on brick. Benjamin Moore Fresh Start® High-Hiding All Purpose Primer is an excellent choice for this task. This versatile primer adheres beautifully to previously painted surfaces, including brick, creating a solid foundation for your topcoat.

Apply the primer using a roller designed for rough surfaces, working it into all the nooks and crannies of the brick. A brush can help ensure complete coverage for hard-to-reach areas or intricate details. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly per the manufacturer's instructions before moving on to the main event.

The Main Event: Painting Your Brick Like a Pro

Now comes the fun part – applying your color! For brick surfaces, Benjamin Moore Aura® Exterior is a fantastic option. This premium paint offers exceptional durability and color retention, standing up to the harshest weather conditions while maintaining its beautiful finish.

Using a roller, apply the paint in smooth strokes, working in small sections to maintain a wet edge. This technique helps prevent lap marks and ensures a uniform finish. A smaller brush will give you better control and coverage for the mortar lines and detailed areas.

Depending on the color change and the condition of the underlying paint, you may require two coats for optimal coverage. Ensure adequate drying time between coats as specified on the product label.

Brush Up on Your Skills: Tips for a Picture-Perfect Finish

Choose a day with low humidity and mild temperature to paint for the best results. Extreme cold or heat can affect paint drying time and finish. Also, try to paint in partial sun or shade. Harsh sunlight can cause paint to dry too quickly and lead to unsightly brush marks. Finally, always work from the top down when painting brick. This approach lets you catch any drips or runs as you go, ensuring a smooth, professional-looking finish.

Quality Brick Paint near Bourbonnais, Illinois

Give your painted brick a fresh new look! John Paul's Paint and Decor in Bourbonnais, Illinois, has everything you require to confidently tackle your brick recoating project. We serve the greater Bourbonnais area, including Kankakee, Bradley, Limestone, Coal City, Elwood, Manhattan, Braidwood, Peotone, Wilmington, Manteno, Aroma Park, Essex, Gardner, Bonfield, Hercher, Clifton, Watseka, Frankfort, Mokena, Pontiac, Monee, Tinley Park, Orland Park, and New Lenox, IL.

Our friendly staff will help you choose the best Benjamin Moore products for your project and provide expert advice to ensure your success. Call (815) 614-3842 today, or message us online to get started on your brick transformation today!