Back to Interior Painting How-To's
How to Paint Brick
You'll be pleasantly surprised by the effect a beautifully painted brick wall can have on your home.
For Best Results:
Refer to our how-to for step-by-step instructions.
Suggested Tools & Supplies
- Brush (2"-2½")
- Bucket
- Bucket Grid
- Extension Pole
- Vinyl Gloves
- Ladder
- Paint Can Opener
- Paint Tray
- Paint Tray Liner
- Rags
- Roller Cover and Frame
- Sandpaper (150-220 Grit)
- Stir Stick
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Step 1
Begin your painting project by pouring thoroughly mixed paint into a bucket and dipping a quality 2"-2½" wide nylon/polyester brush into the paint.
Tip: When using more than one gallon of paint, combine the containers for better uniformity of color. This intermixing is called "boxing."
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Step 2
With your brush, paint (cut in) around the perimeter of the brick surface. Start at the top corner and continue along the ceiling and around the baseboards.
Tip: As you cut in, be sure to remove the excess paint that collects between the bricks with your brush.
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Step 3
Pour paint into a paint tray and work the roller into the tray until it is fully loaded with paint. For best results, use a ½"-1" roller cover.
Tip: For larger areas, consider using a 5-gallon bucket and a bucket grid.
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Step 4
Starting in a 3' x 3' section at a top corner of your project area, roll the paint onto the brick in a "W" formation.
Tip: For an even application, begin 3"-4" from the cut in section.
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Step 5
Work the roller back and forth across the section until the "W" is completely filled in. Be sure to roll over the cut in area as well.
Tip: Reload the roller when necessary and maintain a wet edge.
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Step 6
Forming a column from ceiling to floor, paint the next 3' x 3' section directly below the previous one.
Tip: To blend the 3' x 3' sections and ensure a uniform finish, lightly pass the roller over the newly painted area.
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Step 7
If necessary, apply more paint into the mortar where the roller has missed.
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Step 8
Repeat the process of forming columns and blending sections until the project is complete.
Tip: For optimum results in quality of color and finish, apply a second coat.
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