If you’re a homeowner in Northwest Arkansas thinking about painting your brick house, you’re not alone. Painted brick has become a popular trend in both new builds and older homes, offering a fresh, clean look that can completely transform the appearance of a property. But is painting your brick exterior really a good idea?
At Schneider Painting, we’ve helped many homeowners weigh the pros and cons of painting their brick homes. Below, we’ll break down the key benefits and drawbacks, what to consider before you start, and how to make sure the job is done right.
Benefits of Painting a Brick House
- Curb Appeal & Modernization
Painting your brick can give your home a completely updated, modern appearance. Many homeowners opt for neutral colors like white, gray, or soft greens to create a timeless, elegant look. If your brick looks outdated or stained, a fresh coat of paint can revive your home’s exterior and boost its resale value. - Protection from the Elements
Quality exterior paint acts as a sealant, helping protect your brick from moisture, mildew, and weather-related wear and tear. This is especially important in Northwest Arkansas, where humidity and seasonal storms can take a toll on unsealed surfaces over time. - Easier Maintenance
Contrary to what you might think, painted brick can actually be easier to maintain in some cases. Natural brick is porous and can collect dirt, algae, or efflorescence (white, chalky deposits). Painted brick creates a smoother surface that can be cleaned more easily with a power washer or soft scrub. - Custom Color Choices
One of the biggest advantages is complete control over your home’s color palette. Whether you’re matching trim, coordinating with landscaping, or creating a bold, standout look—paint gives you options that natural brick doesn’t.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s Permanent
Once you paint brick, there’s no going back. Removing paint from brick is extremely difficult, costly, and often doesn’t return it to its original look. Make sure you’re fully committed to the color and style before taking the plunge. - Maintenance Over Time
Unlike natural brick, painted brick will need touch-ups over time. You can expect to repaint every 7–10 years, depending on the quality of paint used and the exposure to sun, rain, and wind. Choosing a high-grade masonry paint can help extend the life of your finish. - Moisture Trapping
If brick is not properly prepped or painted with the wrong type of paint, it can trap moisture inside the walls, leading to potential mold or structural issues. This is why it’s critical to work with professionals who understand how to properly seal and coat masonry surfaces.
What to Know Before Painting Brick
Before you move forward, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:
- Brick Must Be in Good Condition: Cracked, crumbling, or previously damaged brick should be repaired before painting. Painting over damaged areas can seal in problems and make them worse over time.
- Choose the Right Paint: Use high-quality masonry paint or elastomeric paint specifically designed for brick and porous surfaces. These paints are breathable, allowing moisture to escape rather than getting trapped.
- Proper Cleaning is Essential: Pressure washing or scrubbing the brick to remove dirt, mildew, and old residues is a key first step. Clean, dry brick ensures better paint adhesion and a more even finish.
- Professional Application Matters: Brick painting isn’t a typical DIY job. It takes experience, skill, and the right equipment. At Schneider Painting, we make sure every surface is properly prepped, primed, and painted with precision.
Why Homeowners in Northwest Arkansas Trust Schneider Painting
Painting brick is a big decision—and it deserves careful attention to detail. At Schneider Painting, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and surrounding areas update the look of their homes with beautiful, lasting brick finishes.
Our team uses premium products and industry-best practices to ensure your home doesn’t just look good, but also stays protected from the elements for years to come. From color consultations to prep work and final coats, we handle every step with care and craftsmanship.
Final Verdict: Is Painting Brick Worth It?
Yes—if you want to modernize your home, increase curb appeal, and add value, painting your brick exterior can be a great investment. Just be sure to understand the long-term maintenance and commit to doing it right from the start.
When done professionally, painted brick can completely transform the feel of your home and leave a lasting impression.
Thinking about painting your brick house in Northwest Arkansas?
Contact Schneider Painting today for a free consultation and expert advice tailored to your home. Let us help you turn your vision into a beautifully painted reality.