Aug 26, 2014
Does anyone know of a reliable exterior house painter that is well versed in historical home preservation?
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Feb 17, 2014
I have a ranch-style brick house and I'd like to give it a facelift. Do you recommend painting brick or will it be a lot of maintenance/work in the long-run?

Eric Consuegra answered:

Mar 12, 2014

Bekah, 

I woulld consult with a professional painting company for more information., however in my experience when encountering brick chimneys which have been painted, I have seen cases where moisture was trapped behind the paint causing the brick to deteriorate and flake off.  Again, a painting company may be able to recommend a specific paint that will be appropriate for this application. Hope this helps!

Eric Consuegra, Arocon Roofing and Construction, LLC

Feb 17, 2014
I have a ranch-style brick house and I'd like to give it a facelift. Do you recommend painting brick or will it be a lot of maintenance/work in the long-run?
Feb 25, 2014

What is the wall construction of the home?

Before making a recommendation about painting, you have to know what the vapor permeance and structure of the wall is.  Improper placement of a vapor retarder can have disatrous implications.

WoW Home Solutions

Feb 17, 2014
I have a ranch-style brick house and I'd like to give it a facelift. Do you recommend painting brick or will it be a lot of maintenance/work in the long-run?

Terry Stamman answered:

Feb 24, 2014

Bekah,

It is perfectly fine to paint brick.  Here are some things to consider.  You need to clean it fiirst.  I recommend a thorough power wash with a 25 degree tip.  Keep the nozzle back at least six inches while you are doing this.  Then, you need to rub your fingertips across the brick and mortar.  If a lot of particles are dislodged, you need to apply a masonry conditioner.  This will help bind the particles together.  If no particles, or very few, are dislodged, then apply a masonry primer.  Remember to let the surface dry  for at least three days after the powerwash.  You are forcing water throught the brick and it will take a few days for it to dry.  After the primer or conditioner has dried, apply a high quality latex or elastomeric paint.  You will enjoy your work for many years.

One proviso:  Do not paint the brick if it is horizontal like the top of a planter.  That will peel and very quickly.  However, painting on brick on sidewalls is perfectly fine.

Feb 17, 2014
I have a ranch-style brick house and I'd like to give it a facelift. Do you recommend painting brick or will it be a lot of maintenance/work in the long-run?
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