I'm thinking about repainting some old brick siding from the 70s that has a mix of white and black. It's starting to show its age, and while I know many people advise against painting bricks, I believe it could really revitalize the look. Is there a solid reason to avoid painting these bricks, or could it actually improve their appearance? Here's how they look now: [link to current bricks] and here's what I imagine they could look like painted: [link to imagined look]
2 Answers
Honestly, I'd say don't touch those bricks! They have a lot of character just the way they are. The weathered look is actually pretty intentional—it gives a rustic charm that a fresh coat of paint might ruin. If you really can't stand how they look, maybe consider a light-colored brick stain instead of solid paint. Just make sure to let it sit for a bit before you decide; you might get used to it!
I'm totally against painting bricks. Once you paint them, it becomes a maintenance hassle—you'll likely deal with peeling and adhesion issues as they age. If you're adamant about changing their color, think about using a lime wash instead. It's more durable and won’t mess with the brick’s texture. Also, a pressure wash might sound tempting, but it could damage those old bricks even more. Just be cautious if you go that route!
I hear you on the pressure washing concerns! These bricks are really crumbling already; that’s part of why I considered painting them in the first place—to maybe give them a better surface and extend their life. It's a tough choice!