Should I Paint My Brick Exterior? Pros, Cons, and What to Know Before You Grab a Roller
Let’s talk about a home trend that’s been popping up more and more around the PNW: painted brick exteriors.
It’s clean. It’s modern. It’s all over your Pinterest feed. But is it the right move for your home?
If you’ve been tempted to grab a sprayer and transform your faded orange or tired tan brick into something more current, hold up for just a second. Painting brick isn’t just a weekend project—it’s a permanent decision with long-term implications. (No pressure, right?)
Here’s what I tell my clients and friends when they ask me if painting their brick is a good idea. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and what to watch out for specifically here in the Pacific Northwest.
The Pros: Why People Love Painted Brick
1. Instant Curb Appeal
There’s no denying it—painted brick looks beautiful. A fresh coat of white, charcoal, or sage green can take a dated home and make it feel custom and current. It also allows your landscaping to really shine against a more neutral backdrop.
2. Flexibility in Color & Style
Brick is classic, yes, but it can lock you into a very specific aesthetic. If you love modern farmhouse, coastal, or cottage-style vibes, painting your brick helps your home align with your style.
3. Camouflage for Imperfections
If your brick is mismatched, stained, or just not the prettiest tone (hello, 1970s peach!), paint can give it a clean, even finish.
The Cons: What to Consider Carefully
1. It’s Permanent
Once you paint brick, you can’t go back. Brick is porous, so the paint soaks in—you can’t just power wash it off later if you change your mind.
2. Maintenance Is a Real Thing
Painted brick needs upkeep. In the Pacific Northwest, our damp, mossy climate means painted exteriors are more prone to mildew, peeling, and fading. You’ll likely need to repaint every 7–10 years (sometimes more often on exposed areas).
3. It Can Affect Resale—In Both Directions
Some buyers love the look of painted brick. Others see it as a maintenance liability or wish the original material had been preserved. It really depends on the buyer pool in your area and how well the job was done.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips (Especially in the PNW)
If you decide to go for it, here’s how to do it right from the start:
Use a mineral-based or breathable masonry paint (NOT regular exterior latex). Your brick needs to release moisture or you’ll risk trapping water, leading to bubbling or mold.
Power wash and fully dry the brick before painting—rushing this step in our damp spring weather is one of the biggest mistakes people make.
Inspect for cracks or damage before painting. Paint can hide flaws, which means they’ll quietly get worse underneath if you’re not careful.
Plan to wash it annually—soft wash with a gentle solution to keep mildew at bay and maintain the crisp look.
What Looks Good Here in the Pacific Northwest
If you’re going to paint brick in our rainy, tree-lined climate, here are a few hues that work really well:
Soft white – Clean, classic, and lets your landscaping take center stage
Mossy or sage green – Feels natural and grounded against our evergreen surroundings
Charcoal or dark gray – Moody and modern, especially if your home gets lots of light
Warm taupe or greige – Earthy and timeless, blends beautifully with natural wood accents
Pair it with a cedar porch, matte black trim, or a light wood front door for that Pinterest-worthy finish without feeling out of place in your neighborhood.
Final Thoughts: Should You Paint Your Brick?
If your brick is ugly, crumbling, or inconsistent, painting it might be the refresh your home needs. Just go in with your eyes wide open—it’s a commitment, not a quick fix.
And if you’re on the fence? Sometimes a limewash or masonry stain can give you that softened, updated look without going full paint.
Need a second opinion? Want help picking a color that won’t clash with your neighbor’s siding? I’m always happy to chat through ideas. Let’s make your exterior something you love coming home to.
