How-to guides

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.

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

Step-by-step process

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."}

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.}

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.}

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.}

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.}

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.}

Step 7

If necessary, apply more paint into the mortar where the roller has missed.

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.}