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Bricks are a natural beauty – they add personality and a rustic feel to any room. Unfortunately, too many bricks in a small room can darken it and make it feel unwelcoming. If, for any reason, you want to add a bit of color to your bricks, read the following instructions to find out how you can paint bricks!
Materials and tools needed:
- Paintbrush
- Paint Roller
- Tape
- Wire Scrub Brush
- Soap
- Water
- Masonry or Latex Paint
- Latex Primer
- Drop Cloths
- Trisodium Phosphate (if necessary)
1. Before You Paint
If you have just placed your bricks, make sure you leave the cement mortar to dry out for at least one month. Verify the area for any defects, such as a buildup of crystal salts on the surface. You need to remove these by wiping the bricks with a solution of white vinegar and water. Rinse thoroughly with water and then let it dry.
Before painting, ensure that the brickwork is dry and there are no leaks or water damage. Clean any loose cement of sand, and make sure you cover any holes with grouting cement before painting. Wash the brick wall with water to remove all excess buildup, and then place tape on the edges of any areas you do not want to paint.
2. Preparation
Using the wire brush and water, thoroughly clean the bricks. Remove any dust, dirt, and any other materials. You can use the trisodium phosphate and water to get the surface clean if there are any tough stains or dirt. You must use gloves and safety goggles when handling TSP. After cleaning, wait at least 24 hours before painting.
3. Primer
Use the roller or a brush to apply the latex primer to the bricks. If the wall was affected by mildew or buildups, add several layers. Make sure the coatings are completely dry before you start painting.
4. Choose Your Colors
Most painters choose elastodynamic paint when it comes to bricks. In other words, this type of dye is more elastic so that you can fill in any cracks, and it also prevents the reappearance of new ones. In addition to this, elastodynamic paint behaves well regardless of the weather – both in terms of humidity and rain.
Another alternative is acrylic latex exterior paint, especially if the brickwork is outdoors. It is resistant to mildew and repels moisture.
5. Paint the Brick
Start painting the brick after the primer dried completely. Using brushes or a roller, depending on the surface, apply the right paint. For instance, if you paint your fireplace, you must ensure that the paint is heat-proof. Some painters prefer paint sprayers, but some rollers and brushes are also specially made for a textured surface, such as bricks. Make sure you apply the paint to all the tiny spaces and crevices; if necessary, you can apply another coating.
6. Ideas for a Creative Brickwork
If you want to add some extra personality, do not hesitate to get creative. Some ideas include:
- Stain the bricks instead of painting them. This only works with bricks that are not damaged or old.
- Choose different colors to combine.
- Do not hesitate to pick bold colors if the other design elements permit it.
- Make sure you use acrylic caulk for a smooth job if the brick has any cracks.
