The Brickman on Painted Brick

[@OccultDemonCassette]

So many homes ruined with painted brick for new buyers.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Two sites you may enjoy are: www.brickmanshall.com/brick-industry-experts www.goldstandardstaining.com Thanks for your comment.

[@yoda55555]

I was going to have my brick house painted this summer. Saved my wallet and house. Thank you.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Glad we could help!

[@whywhy8693]

Someone painted over the beautiful brick in my laundry room! The brick is from the other side of a fireplace. It was done in such a terrible way- looks like cheap white wall paint. I’m struggling on what to do. I don’t know if I’m capable of removing it myself and I can’t afford to hire someone. I wish people would think a few times before painting over brick. It was beautiful old red brick original to the 1940’s house 😢

[@jesp999]

I live in southern new mexico, on a property with very old brick that has already been painted. And the way I have solved the problem above is to use very expensive white truck bed liner as paint. The truck bed liner's chemistry is much more durable and sticks to the brick but also creates strength more than paint does. So one can do this over pealing paint and if you do a lot of layers of truckbed liner it will not peal further. But of course it is expensive. I have the feeling it might last 10 or more years in full sun and rain only time will tell. but anyway I find often it is good to buy products outside of the marketed category. Think outside the box. So buying boat, RV or truck products for household use is often better for these type of projects.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@jesp999 I would love for you to document what you have done and continue to document with before- during and after pictures over the next 20 years. please sent the specific product and application. [e-mail] For paint removal I would suggest EacoChem.com However to change the color of ABSORBTIVE brick refer to the EXPERTS- Masonry Cosmetics we will keep your maintenance free brick maintenance free www.masonrycosmetics.com

[@dougrutti7215]

Excellent Explanation on the self perpetrating Insanity on painting bricks. Bricks are beautiful, classy, elegant, strong and warm. Why hide beauty?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

I could not have agreed more with you. Thank you for that.

[@gobofraggel7383]

I saw a brick painter on TikTok. My house is brick built in the 1970's in NYC. Glad I came here.

[@ThePlim62]

In Australia it's a very well known fact that painting an older brick home increases it's value and enhances a home.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Maybe increase its value short-term by giving the home a new fresh look or changing an older outdated looking color to a popular one. Here in the US, it is a range of warm gray or white is really popular. But paint increasing the value of the home over the long run I cannot see. Do you know what kind of paint is being used? Do they use a primer first and then a two-coat application? Thank you for the comment.

[@merrityndall5476]

@@MasonryCosmetics Don, I have someone house built in 1947 on brick piers. Later they filled in the spaces with other bricks making the smooth flow wrong. It looks tacky. The brick is also faded but not chalking or lose. Experts says to use a primer. This is not a job for a brush and I was thinking of spraying it. Suggestions please. Another homeowner says use Epoxy. Thank you, Mary Tyndall. I am in South Georgia where the climate is quite moderate.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Mary (Merri), Please feel free to email me several pictures: a few close up and a few farther back of the main areas of concern. The goal with the pictures along with your comments will help us see the overall scope of what you are up against send pictures to: [e-mail] Subject: response to youtube comment

[@HelmutEvrard]

Not anymore, I've friends that restored their brick house to bring it to its original fashion and to get rid of the paint, the house looks absolutely astonishing and here in Australia brick is Soo popular

[@ThePlim62]

@@HelmutEvrard Maybe I should have clarified. Depends on the brick. I'm about to paint our brick home we not long purchased as the brick is not appealing at all. There are a lot of brick homes that have beautiful bricks but there's a lot that have ghastly brick. It's a fact that in a lot of cases painting the brick adds appeal and value.

[@marleybedford8628]

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you…my house is “ALL” brick one half of the house is all exposed brick in a mid brown very rustic form. Hat is fine The rest of the house is brick as well but they used a cheaper lighter brick very smooth and they bagged it and in a bone pink colour. I’ve updated the toilet walls and kitchen backsplash. The back splash turned out fine what I could see of bagged bricks I scrubbed down with sugar soap and then painted them with the sealer. I’m now ready to paint them with a topcoat but I can’t make up my mind what colour I want which is a fairly generally white colour. I am very happy with the toilet. Near the door at the back of the house some bagging is falling off the walls I would say is because of the moisture in the air any ideas !

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Marley, Sounds like you have been busy. Color is always a personal preference. I have a few questions- why a "sugar soap" was to scrub brick and what do you mean by "bagging" with reference to your brick? Our products is made for abortive masonry we cannot be applied over a sealer.

[@jimbos58]

Don, I live in the southern part of Louisiana in a brick home built in the 1960`s. It has been painted twice. Once before I purchased it and again approximately 15 years ago. The last paint finish is a beige color. It has begun to form a powder that doesn't look well on any dark clothing. Need to repaint. Would appreciate any suggestions you could send my way. I am defiantly going to do it myself.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Please email me a few close-ups with a few farther back pics and any area of additional paint breakdown other than a form or powder. For example, any peeling areas. At [e-mail], I'd like to talk back and forth from there and see what options we can develop for you. Thanks for reaching out. Don

[@AssetsOnly14k]

It would be awesome if you could list a few of the approved "paints" for the exterior bricks. Great vid tho

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Stephen thank you for the kind reply, please check out colormybrick.com and please feel free to email us at [e-mail] for further discussion. Don

[@steverodrigue6038]

@@MasonryCosmetics I tried contacting u guys .

[@AirDeRienBrasserie]

It's a stain not a paint

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@AirDeRienBrasserie Yes what we offer is a Brick Stain that lasts the test of time. Don

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@steverodrigue6038 Steve were you ever able to get through. Please feel free to email me at [e-mail]. So sorry for the late reply. You are important to us. Don

[@lynnescott3072]

Oh dear, I wish that I had watched your video last year, before I had my house painted. Most of the house is roughcast, with brick at the bottom part. The roughcast is fine but some of the brickwork on the main wall is flaking and peeling off , after only 4 months. I am going to have to fix it myself and wrote to Valspar for advice. I don't think that the painters prepared the brick in any way and I bitterly regret letting them paint it. As I had my reservations about it. It's done now and needs fixed. So, I am waiting for the better weather to come and will scrape off the flaking paint and sand the brick and clean them. But what primer/undercoat should I get please. I have read that it must contain latex. I would be grateful for any help. Thank you

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lynn, So sorry for the situation with your house. Prepped or not we never recommend painting exterior brick. Eaco Chem products may be worth investigating www.eacochem.com/product-list/strippers.html. Prosoco is another company you might want to contact www.prosoco.com. Good luck. Remember friends don't let friends paint their house.

[@garyruark9506]

This is a great video. My house has white brick on front. It is some sort of coating that was baked into the brick when made. 47 years later the white is chipping in places or worn away. What can I do?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Gary, thanks for the question; please take some closeup pictures of areas of concern and then a few more a few steps back, and let's see what we can advise. Email to [e-mail] Attn: Donnie

[@hollylynnwhitney]

So what type of paint stains would be okay to use to change the color of brick???

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Holly, sorry this was missed. I would not use a paint stain on brick but a brick stain. Please check out www.masonrycosmetics.com or please feel free to email me at [e-mail]. Thank you for the question, Don

[@yolandafonseca5900]

What is the proper way to change the brick color?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Yolanda, please feel free to email me at [e-mail], thanks Don

[@yolandafonseca5900]

How do you remove paint from bricks that have been painted?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Yolanda, www.eacochem.com/stories/story-instrip.html

[@ANGIEB52]

Somebody decided to have the bright idea to paint the entire lower section of red chicago brick with thick white latex paint. Its peeling and horrible looking any suggestions on removal?

[@CentralNintendo1]

Depending how old the brick is, older bricks tend to be softer because of the way they were made, you won't be able to sand blast it with regular sands as they will eat away at the brick. Look into walnut shells and such. A specialist, that knows what they are doing, that does sandblasting will be able understand the needs old bricks will require. Also look online for historic preservation of old bricks. There is a lot of info about removing paint from bricks.

[@ANGIEB52]

@@CentralNintendo1 Thank you, yes I unfortunately tested water sandblasting on a few of the bricks. Paint was gone, but so was some of the brick .😊. ... Been thinking about trying the walnut or glass beads next, but didn't want to waste the money if it didn't work.😣

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Angie, thanks for the comments, part of one of the studies I have been working on is finding the best way to remove paint from a brick and mortar wall, sometimes the brick will hold up better than the mortar joints. Chemicals are one way but let's look at some other ways vs using chemicals. As said below I would not suggest sandblasting or using a pressure washer they are both too invasive. We are currently looking at paint removal using dry-Ice, when used properly the results have been very good showing no damage to the brick or mortar. More testing on different types of brick still needs to be done but early results are favorable.

[@CentralNintendo1]

@@ANGIEB52 glass beads will be too hard. Whatever you use needs to me softer than the brick but harder than the paint. Which most are. So I would recommend trying the softest material you can get in the machine. Remember a bit more material and a slower progress might cost a bit more, but the damage that otherwise could occur is far worse and much more expensive. Dry icing might work with your type of brick but I'd recommend trying things out and taking it slow.

[@ANGIEB52]

Wow, thank you for all the great information. 😊

[@arbrown106]

I want to paint my interior brick fireplace white. What’s is the best product? Should I use an all in one paint + primer?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Allen, I know the of the perfect product- Masonry Cosmetics "Long Lasting Whitewash Kit" DIY. this kit is so new we have not promoted it to date however, we have used it frequently over the years. send us an email to: [e-mail] to learn how to more Our product is: VOC -FREE and NO PRIMER is needed

[@karenrichardson8918]

Don, is there any reason for concern with painting interior brick? I’ve just bought a 60s house and really don’t care for the brick used all the way from floor to ceiling on the fireplace as well as a hearth all along the bottom from wall to wall.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

You are fine with the painting interior brick. Especially if you like the paint look, once you paint it is hard to unring that bell though. You can also stain the brick a different color if you still like the look of brick. If interested in knowing more please feel free to email me at [e-mail]. Thanks for the question, Don

[@lisarobertson4485]

Would it look good to spray paint your brick home with red glitter paint?

[@gala9593]

No

[@LongDistanceMotorcycleFans]

Yes, do it this weekend

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lisa, I would not recommend any paint on brick, but saying that I am not familiar with red glitter paint. Please feel free to email me at [e-mail], thanks Don

[@clearviewtechnical]

Painting a brick house is ALWAYS a BIG MISTAKE! The beauty of bare brick is the many decades of maintenance-free service. Yes, I know it's cool and trendy, but it's a huge dis-service in the long run. The current or future owners will have to scrape and repaint and as the coats of paint accumulate the shorter the life of the paint. Eventually, ALL the paint needs to be sandblasted or removed with paint stripper. And then probably the mortar joints repaired (tuck pointing). So PLEASE just spare the home and future owners of this horrible fad!

[@markhardman-haworth6583]

This guy is so right...

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Thanks Mark,

[@candycarlsen3159]

Thank you so much for your video & sharing your experience & knowledge. Long story short, I painted a small area using a latex paint, without primer, to see the results. I didn't want to use a primer if I didn't have to. The paint was absorbed in a short period of time leaving a nice sheen on the face of the brick later that afternoon. Two days later, & a weather change to rain & high humidity, the paint resurfaced. This was my first clue that the brick is "breathing". I don't want to suffocate it with paint. I need an alternative remedy. The house was built in 1948, meaning it seems, that the brick is a higher quality composition. 1. Please, how can I recover the spot that I test painted, (appx a 4 ft square area)? 2. What type of stain base do I use? Thank you & kindest regards,

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Candy there are several options to remove paint off brick like Chemicals and Sand Blasting to name two. I personally do not like either one of those and also would not consider using a pressure washer but have seen poor results from it many times. Something new that our team is researching is Blasting with Dry Ice. We have seen some really good results with it. We can help answer both of your questions but to do that safely for you, the landscaping, and the brick we would need to find out more about the type of brick you have. If the brick is a Red Smooth Brick we would have more choices in removing the paint than if it was a sandmold or a handmade brick. Please feel free to send a few pictures to [e-mail] to my attention and we will help you the best we can. Thank you for your comment and questions, Don

[@kellbell.8579]

@@MasonryCosmetics Do you not recommend using pressure washers on bricks? Thank you 🙂

[@nuhuecompany]

@@kellbell.8579 This might be the first time I've ever replied to a comment on KZbin, but you seem to have a good concern. Dry ice blasting is a great option but also very expensive especially for just a 4 square foot area. Typical dry ice blasting machines can run you $700 to over $1000 per day to rent, and that doesn't include the actual dry ice. Depending where you are located you may not be able to purchase dry ice, but if you can you are buying it by the pallet and it may run you a few hundred dollars or more. If you are doing a whole house, there is no better option, but to invest $2,000 or more is simply not reasonable. Look up Dumond Peel Away, they make 3 types of paint remover, they have a test kit you can buy for about $40, that gives you a small amount of each type because only one of the three may work on the type of paint you used (or maybe all three will work). Regular latex paint is not a good solution for brick because it will trap moisture.....however you can use an Elastomeric Paint that is designed to go over brick, stucco, concrete surfaces because it's designed to allow the brick to breathe still, Sherwin-Williams makes a product line called Loxon, you can check it out online or at a store. Also, you can use mineral masonry paints from Romabio. As a painting contractor I have used both products from each company many times with lots of success. Best of luck.

[@kellbell.8579]

@@nuhuecompany Thank you for your reply 🙂 I recently used a pressure washer to take off some peeling paint, and now it seems like some of the concrete underneath is crumbling (It's along the bottom of the house). 🙁

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@kellbell.8579 So sorry I missed this. So many people ask this. Great care must be taken when using a pressure washer. A lot of variables. The amount of pressure being used, the type of Tip, how close to the wall you get, the type of brick you are cleaning. We color-correct power wash damage all the time, sometimes a person using a pressure washer will actually put lines in the wall or letters like a W or a Z without even realizing it. I know this is really late but if you ever have any more questions please feel free to email me at [e-mail].

[@johannesswillery7855]

How do I get rid of the paint on my brick?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Please feel free to email me pics and what part of the country you are in. Let's see first how the paint is holding up. Please feel free to send pics to [e-mail]. Thanks Don

[@m3dmonds]

So now you have me totally freaking out. We bought a house a couple years ago and the brick had already been painted. I know it was primed before and we don't have any major chipping issues. I have no problem dealing with the maintenance, but I'm now concerned about what it's doing to my brick underneath. Is this just a total disaster waiting to happen? If so, any idea how long it takes for the brick to rot underneath? I read that the issues you mentioned tend to impact older brick (pre 1940's) and not so much newer brick. Is this true? Am I better off just letting it do its thing and maintaining any chips or attempting to strip the brick? We live in a nearly 5k sq ft home, I can't imagine how much it would cost to strip this much brick if it's even possible. Should I be losing sleep?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

No, m3dmonds the age of brick does not matter. Feel free to contact us at [e-mail] Do you know the product used on your home? - what primer and paint used? -how many coatings? -was the product diluted? -do you have before and after pictures? Possibly we could consider creating a case study of the effects of paint on your home over time. However, we would need detailed information from the contractor. In the meantime, please do not lose any sleep. I would suggest keeping a watchful eye on your home's painted brick exterior (yearly) and provide maintenance as needed. Contact Eaco Chem for paint removal options if you so desire. www.eacochem.com/product-list/strippers.html

[@tomsimpson6044]

I am looking at painting brick white to help keep the house cool in summer, but just one floor on the east side because we are a duplex and shaded on the other sides. I am still lot clear on whether Limewash is OK on brick.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Tom, sorry so late with a response. If you have not painted or lime-washed your brick please email me at [e-mail]. Thanks Don

[@uncleharley1]

What is a good breathable sealer for brick that is starting to dust and crumble on the faces ?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Sorry we missed this earlier. Send a few close up and a few farther back pictures showing the scope of the brick and lets see if we can help. At this stage of the brick a sealer might not be the answer, but pics will help to advise you better, thanks Donnie

[@olajuwonjackson1028]

So what method would you suggest to remove paint??

[@MasonryCosmetics]

That is not an easy question to answer. It is not that we do not have experience in this area but have seen so much damage over the years. Many do not realize that paint on brick is different than painting wood or metal. Wood needs protected from rot and metal needs protected from rust. Paint offers protection for both but it is limited by time and becomes a maintenance issue. Majority of all Brick made today do not need protected. They are mfg maintenance-free. Brick have a different absorption than wood and metal and the textures of the brick really matter. But what most do not think about is that Brick are are part of a wall system. Brick and mortar will have different absorptions and depending on which brick it is and which mortar type/mix was used it can be difficult to successfully remove the paint without damaging the wall. Once painted the brick are no longer Maintenance-free. It is really important to know the brick on your home and if you know what paint was used. To give you a clearer answer I would need to see a few pictures of your home, some close up and a few a little farther back. [e-mail] Attn: Don would be the place to send them. Sorry we did not get back to you sooner. Thank you for your question.

[@Checkthefineprint]

What about rhino shield and the 25 yr guarantee? It would change the look of my 55 ranch so much

[@c.b.-11]

Curious if you used this product.

[@Checkthefineprint]

@@c.b.-11 I did not do this it was 11k . I’d like to but not going to

[@mineralstains]

Worst thing you can do is use elastomeric on brick. Elastic and more resin = more paint and glob on your brick

[@yolandafonseca5900]

How about schmearing ?

[@daisyduke8139]

This video didn’t tell us anything we don’t already know ?? What is your solution for removing the paint safely ??????????????????????? How about talking about laser or blasting

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Daisy Duke we are building a library of information on all things brick. We are also working on the best practice for the removal of paint from brick. We are glad for the suggestions and look forward to addressing these topics on the Brickman's Hall of Fame under Ask the Experts. www.brickmanshall.com/brick-industry-experts. Additionally, I would suggest looking at EaCo Chem you can find them at www.eacochem.com Eaco Chem offers "Breakthrough products that provide remarkable versatility, stripping power and safety all in one."

[@kevinishikawa393]

APPLY A STUCCO FINISH TO THE BRICK THIS WAY IT STILL BREATHES AS IT WAS INTENDED TO DO

[@yolandafonseca5900]

Can you schmear stone or brick?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Yolanda, sorry I missed this. Are you thinking of a German-smear or mortar smear look? Please email me at [e-mail].

[@Snoop55]

Good information that I needed. Thank you.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lisa - we are glad you enjoyed the video and always appreciate the feedback!

[@janehouck1906]

I take it this also applies to painting a brick fireplace?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Jane, sorry so late. If it is exterior do not paint. Thanks Don

[@EnragedRamrod]

What are the options after brick is already painted with some areas with brick chipping with paint.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

EnragedRamrod, Below are 4 options. I would thoroughly investigate all options; however, I would first suggest reaching out to option number 4 first. As with any choice always ask for examples of work and references. 1. pressure wash - this can cause additional damage especially to the mortar. This would not be my first choice. 2. sandblast- I have been told sandblasting can works however, I have not witnessed sandblasting success or failure. 3. Dry Ice-I have seen success with this process. You would want to make sure the company is experienced and has experienced success removing paint from brick. 4. Chemical- Eaco Chem has several product options available. www.eacochem.com/product-list/strippers.html. I would contact them to see what they recommend. The team at Eaco Chem is very knowledgeable and can advise you with the appropriate product selection. Please keep me updated. Good luck

[@belizehouseforrent6138]

I have no idea what word you are saying at 2:49. What kind of stain??

[@marcopolo9446]

That's what I want to know but I cannot find that answer anywhere I'm going to have to go to the website

[@belizehouseforrent6138]

@@marcopolo9446 - I FINALLY figured it out. He's saying "masonry" stain.

[@marcopolo9446]

@@belizehouseforrent6138 thank you

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@marcopolo9446 Marco, sorry that I missed this earlier, please feel free to email me at [e-mail] with any questions, thanks for the question Don

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@belizehouseforrent6138 Thanks for the save it is appreciated, Don

[@CheeseBae]

Lots of morons in my area paint their brick. They're destroying the house. If you don't like the color of your brick then limewash it.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

We can custom create any color for your brick. Spread the work MASONRY COSMETICS will never hurt a brick. www.masonrycosmetics.com

[@lynnescott3072]

That's not very nice. You live and learn. I've learned a lot from Don Foster today.

[@frostland9193]

Thank you for info. I learned a lot. Is coarsely textured stucco wall ( Spanish lace stucco ) a finished product as brick as well? If so, I should not paint mine. . I would appreciate your reply.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Frost, extremely late, I apologize. I believe you do need to paint stucco, but I am not an expert in this area. Brick are fired/cooked/vitrified in temperatures in the 1850 to 2000 degree area and the main reason they are maintenance-free and do not need to be painted. Thanks for the question, Don

[@td4437]

Would you suggest priming with loxon prior to painting brick?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Hi there! We'd recommend staying away from painting brick at all. We offer a natural brick stain as the absorbent, non-harmful alternative to paint. We have over 400 case studies of jobs that have lasted 10, 15, 20+ years in the field with no signs of peeling, flaking, or any other form of failure - www.goldstandardstaining.com/index If you're interested, learn more about our staining system here: www.masonrycosmetics.com/stain

[@Ms7of8]

Hello, Mr. Brickman, thank you for your video. We have a four-sided brick house and I was thinking of having it white/limewashed (i.e., the Romabio limewash), to look like worn-off or aged painted brick. Some of the homes in the fancy neighborhoods have it, and I just love the look. If we get this done, will it have to be maintained often as well? Will it have to be maintained at all? Thank you in advance.

[@IMWOKE-wk5qb]

Lime wash or Masonry stain? Are they both safe??? TY

[@Ms7of8]

@@IMWOKE-wk5qb Hi, lime-wash. YT videos on how to use this product are available, as well as just "lime wash" for brick homes. Romobio (a brand name) claims there's no maintenance, but I wanted to check with an expert.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@IMWOKE-wk5qb thank you for your question and so sorry for the late response. Proven Masonry staining I am an expert with. It will never peel, crack, blister or flake because it does not create a layer that can, it is a translucent penetrating stain, great for absorbent brick. We are putting together a website to show jobs, 10 to 25 years old throughout most of the Midwest. Lime-wash I am working on, I have literally have over 400 requests asking the same question. There are so many different products and different ways that I am looking into as many as I can. It will take awhile, I have a small team but they are traveling and doing case studies on 100 of our jobs we did so many years ago for the website I just mentioned. When that gets closer to completing we will do more on White-washing. Don

[@IMWOKE-wk5qb]

@@MasonryCosmetics AWESOME, THANKS!

[@MasonryCosmetics]

I just looked up Romabio limewash it would still fall into a paint category for me but it does have some shift away from a paint. For example Zero Voc? We tested some products that said they were Zero Voc here is one kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKutg4x8eN6thK8 now what this company said it was VOC Free after it dried, hmm. But if this Romabio limewash is zero Voc in liquid form that is a positive. They also say they are a paint and primer in one (remember I focus on exterior brick, interior brick have so many more options), where the primer side of that concerns me. They apply to a damp surface, there are several who recommend that. For our process we want a clean dry surface so we absorb into the absorbent face/pore structure that most brick have. We want to get embedded into the brick. It also says the product resists peeling and flaking. It either does or does not. Resist in my opinion is a play on words. But again, how long has this product been on the market? Do they have Proven Case Studies of Performance? I am sorry this is not much help, I wish it was always a simple yes or no. But I still have a lot to learn and this product is new to me. Bottom line is Paint is a great product, I just would not recommend it on exterior brick. Don

[@LAwigTalk]

Thank you! I have been searching and searching for videos on painting exterior brick. I don't want a solid color change. I want to sponge paint the color on. Can that be done with a stain? Do you have videos on that?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lorraine, I am so frustrated I missed so many great questions. Yes, it can be done with a stain. Let me know if I can be of any help. Please feel free to email me at [e-mail], thanks for the question, Don

[@leemal3314]

What about when you start to notice the brick is starting to loose its integrity through time, what would you suggest to do?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lenny, sorry I missed this question. Please feel free to send me pictures of your brick to [e-mail]. Pictures greatly help a lot and we can see what exactly is happening, thanks Don

[@smoll.miniatures]

Is brick a maintenance free product?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Michael, sorry I missed your question earlier. Brick made to ASTM C-216 Severe Weather (Most brick made are) is Maintenance-Free and do not need to be sealed or have any protected coating applied. Brick buildings do need to be maintained. For example, the mortar might need tuckpointed in 25 to 50 years. Wood, you paint to keep from rotting, Metal you paint to keep from rusting but brick is a high fired/vitrified masonry product that will stand the test of time. Great question. Don

[@TechbyParker]

Interesting...thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ed--bostonmass.6586]

What about a waterproofer C2 GUARD $60 a gallon Reason I'm thinking is the brick is frail when rubbed or touched always releases a small sprinkle of sand granules when rubbed or touched not a crumble just a bit more than a sprinkle a pinch of salt so to speak

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Ed, I feel bad I missed this. From Boston, your brick could be a sand molded brick. Please feel free to send me a picture of your brick. A few farther back and a few close up and I can help better advise you from that. Sealing the brick would be the last resort and only using a breathable sealer. If you have not done anything to your brick as of yet please email [e-mail]. Thanks, Don

[@beautylife310]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Now I can give up the idea to pain my garden brick wall, save money and time, move on to other house projects.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Good luck!

[@blackbypopulardemand5537]

Needed this, !!

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Thanks for the Thumbs Up! Please share video...

[@SweetBuLivingLife]

I have Chicago brick floors that were previously sealed. They are almost the same color as my kitchen cabinets as is. I want to lighten the brick floors and thought that white washing be a good idea; however was told that because the bricks were sealed, I could not do a traditional white wash. Any ideas of how I could get a white wash look on a sealed brick floor and it be durable?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

The sealed brick would be a problem for our penetrating stain. Sealers can be removed but not easily when inside. Please feel free to email me pics and we can see if we can help in any way we can. [e-mail], thanks Don

[@sergiorocha1776]

What about staining brick?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Sergio, yes. Use a proven masonry (brick) stain. Please check www.masonrycosmetics.com or email me at [e-mail]. Thanks for the question, Don

[@belizehouseforrent6138]

What about blue washing or german schmearing an internal fireplace?

[@chrismorton2741]

All I know is we painted our fireplace with white primer a few years ago and it looks awesome. 0 signs of any issues he just described. Internal is just different I would suspect.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Sorry I did not reply earlier. When it comes to internal brick you are wide open, it really comes down to the look you like. No durability issue to really speak of. There are exceptions but very few. Thanks, Don

[@MasonryCosmetics]

@@chrismorton2741 Chris you are correct. My focus is to not paint exterior brick. Thank you for responding. Don

[@1256nytom]

now I know I'm screwed

[@eunicemancinas]

😂 😬 😢

[@blueridgedsia]

How about romabio mineral paint? Is that bad for brick?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Thank you for the question. You are one of many that have reached out to me and have asked the same question. I have 3 large projects I have been working on. First how good is our Brick Stain, it took 3 years but we now have over 400 Case Studies going back 15, 20, and 25 years of successful field performance www.goldstandardstaining.com. My second large project is the effect of paint on brick that I am working on. It will probably take another year or so to complete because I am traveling the entire country but so far the findings are not good. The third project I have been asked to research is Romabio Paint especially now that two brick manufacturers are selling it. So far there is some different information out there on its warranty being 5 to 10 years or 20 years. Still a maintenance product, and what does that look like when it needs to be reapplied? I have asked for older jobs to look at and hope that they will be supplied to me but nothing as of yet. The product has been around since 2009. So this is the 13th year, so no proof yet on performance lasting 20 years, but I would like to see jobs that have lasted 10 to 12 years, so far I have nothing to report. But will be working on it. Sorry not much help as of yet. Thank you for the question. Don

[@kdub6593]

Great vid. TU

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Thanks k Dub for taking the time to leave a comment. two other sites you might enjoy are: www.goldstandardstaining.com www.brickmanshall.com/brick-industry-experts

[@julianwiik334]

What is your opinion of applying a German Smear?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

My knowledge is limited here. I can say this I do not know of any reason not to use it. Mortar surrounds the brick being placed in the bed and head joint creating your brick wall, there should be no reason I see that you could not smear the mortar or colored mortar on the face for a desired look you are looking for. I have been in this business from making brick and selling brick to changing the color of it for over 35 years now. Literally over 1,000 job complaints of one kind or another on all kinds of jobs, and never has someone said that there was a problem smearing mortar on the brick face. I do hang with a lot of people in this business that are a lot smarter than me. I will ask around. Thank you Julian for the question. Don

[@JayZoop]

Brick comes in so many ugly colors as well, which you see on homes. A painted brick home looks really good. I bet there is a primer coating you can apply that helps the paint last much longer.

[@Soaringeagles1776]

A guy that lives right down the road from my house has had his painted get for 8 years. Looks like brand new

[@JayZoop]

@@Soaringeagles1776 Painted brick looks amazing!

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Be interesting to see what happens the next 8 years. Also what is happening behind the paint that you do not even see. No matter what those painted brick are compromised from what they were oringinally attended for .

[@jwlf11]

I see your point. What are your thoughts on lime wash or white wash?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

It depends on the product used. If you have a particular one in mind, I would be glad to look into it. My email is [e-mail]. We (Masonry Cosmetics) can create a long-lasting look with our Proven Masonry Stain so that is one good option. I am not a fan of paint on brick as most know. But there are those that like seeing the failure happening over time. Also we as a company have started researching the different products that have been used and that are newly being introduced to the market place. We are in the early stages of the reports and case studies. We will be glad to share when done. Thank you for your comment and question, Don

[@avrilcrisp5725]

Do you have a video on removing paint?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Avril, 2 years is a long time, so sorry. We are working on this in the future, but nothing now. Thank you for the question. Don

[@kaitlynwiggins2328]

The only reason that paint is peeling off is because it wasn’t primed. Brick can absolutely be painted as long as it’s prepped properly. Some people hate the colour of their brick and can’t afford to reface their whole house. This video is completely close minded. I am a professional contractor 👌

[@MasonryCosmetics]

First, I would like to thank you for your comment. I appreciate all of the feedback I receive, and I also like to hear from people that disagree. It helps me to learn and gain knowledge. For the people who hate the look of their exterior brick color, there is a correct way to change the color of the brick that would never compromise the brick by using a Proprietary Proven Masonry Stain. One that I have given most of my life to. Exterior paint has a purpose for Metal and Wood. It stops or slows rust or rotting. Brick are maintenance-free but once you paint it (even with the primer) you change that. As I have stated in the video - you have compromised the brick. No other way to say it. You even say that the paint is peeling because it was not primed. So you do agree paint peels when in your words it is applied wrong. Well there is a lot of that going on. Also, the brick walls that are primed and painted will need to be repainted at some point, yes? Brick have different textures and a different absorption characteristic than other painted surfaces, I can talk a lot more about that. I am one of the few bringing attention to this subject. Brick and mortar walls were intended to breathe naturally and that is another topic we could dive into, but hard to do is a short response. While I appreciate that you have an opinion, I do not agree that the video is closed-minded. Again thank you for the comment. Don

[@kaitlynwiggins2328]

I stand corrected sir! . Your video made think look deeper into this subject. I’ve done a lot of research (as I’m always doing as a professional painter) and I completely agree with EVERYHTING you said and I’m currently speaking to a masonry stain manufacturer to learn more. I have always been weary when painting exterior brick but I’ve Ben told my paint manufacturers (I won’t name names) that’s their products are completely acceptable. But now after seeing your video which inspired me to do some research, I have gained much more knowledge. I appreciate your words. Thanks for increasing my knowledge and therefore bettering me as a painter :) cheers to you 👍🏻

[@kaitlynwiggins2328]

NumptyMagnet you have to use a brick STAIN. There are a few companies around but I’m in Canada. Not sure where your from :)

[@kaitlynwiggins2328]

NumptyMagnet unfortunately I don’t really have any solutions for you :( I mean if it’s already painted then all you can do is peel it off (which sounds like a nightmare) or just paint over it. The damage is done already. I doubt the house will come crumbling down so don’t worry too much lol

[@Soaringeagles1776]

Exactly

[@rickfogarty608]

Don you don't have a clue, painting on a clean brick surface is actually prolongs the life of any brick work, stains or concrete paint will give you a full life on your house Stops your bricks from crumbling, and looks a lot more professional.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Rick, I appreciate we see things different. I have been in the brick business (since 1983) 41 years now. Started in the brick plants as an laborer eventually became a Glaze Foreman in 1986, later running one brick plant while having over-site on two other plants. This gives me a lot of man hours about brick and mortar and brick and mortar walls. I share this because I had a lot of experience with coatings on all different types on brick and with all types of coatings as well. I am considered a expert on coating brick. Now all that experience at the plants and in the field does give me a clue (so that is our first disagreement) on what I am talking about, But it does not guarantee that I no it all, and does not guarantee I am always right. I might be old now but I still can learn. I am open to what you have to say. I gave you just some of my credentials not to brag but I am committed to serving the Brick Industry. I have committed most of my life to it and I wanted to at least let you know where I am coming from vs just mis-leading people. I truly believe what I say. If you end up proving that I am wrong then I will learn and be a better man for it. I appreciate you questioning me, it gives us both an opportunity. Most brick made in the US are Manufactured to ASTM C-216 Standard Specification for facing brick (I am on all the ASTM International C15 Committees and we are always looking for new people to join if you are interested). Brick made under this standard need to be SW Brick which stands for Severe Weather. They are made to with stand sever-weather, many Brick Manufactures make the brick to be Maintenance-Free and offer 100 or more year warranty. These brick are not made to be painted. The majority of the brick are made this way. There is a few Manufactures that do make a painters brick version. But those are not Maintenance-Free. And no one that I know of in the Industry believes that adding paint will help those brick last longer. Brick back in the 1800's that were not fired/vitrified at temperatures around 2000 degrees could help give some protection. But the SW fired brick today need NO protective coating. None. Once you put paint on a brick it is no longer Maintenance-free. The brick itself is compromised from it's intent. It will have to be repainted and when that time comes the paint should be removed (not as easy as a wood or metal base) or you could just end up painting over failing paint, which I would not recommend (When a paint life cycle starts breaking down it does not happen all at the same time). There is no evidence anywhere that I can find that paint on an ASTM C-216 SW made brick adds one more second of life. I do have a lot of information to share on this subject. But this is getting long in the tooth as some would say. When brick or brick and mortar (wall system) is painted it may as well be another product than brick. Brick have character but that is a whole different discussion that is to long for this. I know people like that paint look but to define what professional is and the craft that goes into making a brick look like it does. Painting doe not make it look more professional. I will agree to disagree with you on that and move on. Another word for crumbling is also spalling where the face of the brick falls off. Brick can spall or crumble that have not been painted, it is because of the situation the brick were put in that caused that or the quality of the brick when made - painting would not have stopped it. But it is proven that painting brick can add to spalling brick in freeze-thaw areas of the country where the paint or coating of the brick helped trap moisture. I am not saying every time but a lot more than you would think. I am currently on a few investigations right now to research this deeper and this could be a future article I publish. I have personally traveled to 31 different states over the last 1 1/2 years meeting with contractors, several restoration contractors researching all kinds of different paints and coatings. I have met with 7 different Paint Companies that have been painting brick for over 20 to 45 years with the different paints used and more currently adding a primer first. This has been coast to coast, North to South. A lot of it not pretty. We are studying paint removal which depends on the type of brick and type of mortar used, we have personally performed some of these tests ourselves. Not easy. Especially on the Bark or vertical scratch textures. Power-washers and sandblasting damaged a lot of the brick walls. We witnessed more success when harsh chemicals were used, not helpful to the environment. Lastly, if you were able to make it this far (sorry about that, but this is important) it is a wall system, which moves (I have written a few articles on this). Moves with the changes in temperatures. Brick and mortar are intended to breathe, take on moisture and slowly release it. The Brick and Mortar have a different absorption and when both are painted the paint is not on a level playing field. I am saying do not paint exterior brick. My fight is not with the interior, only exterior. I know that is a lot, I did try to keep it short. There is so much more I can share but I would rather hear more from you. If you have any evidence that painting brick makes it better, stronger, or last longer I would love to see it. Thanks again, Don

[@Snoop55]

What about whitewash? does that do damage?

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Lisa, thank you for the question. It depends on the product being used and the product it is being applied too. When using "paints" or "paint-like stains" on brick, even for whitewashing, you still may compromise the brick and the integrity of the brick. We understand the need and appeal for a "whitewashed" look and created a whitewashing video using our Proven-MasonryStain System: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXq0kGR9qqiSe8U This system can never compromise brick or hurt the integrity of the brick. If you have any more questions, please feel free to reach out to us at [e-mail] or 888-698-8705

[@artbykeenan]

A surface exterior primer wil help protect brick

[@MasonryCosmetics]

A primer will not keep exterior brick (a Maintenace free product) maintenance free.

[@diogenescasares4294]

Yes

[@austinshoemaker1553]

Right now the only thing hurting the value of my home is this butt ass ugly red brick...

[@MasonryCosmetics]

Austin are your brick absorptive? Not sure- check out kzbin.info/www/bejne/foq9hGR-ea2Vd8U forward to 2:01. If so consider a BRICKMAN stain kit (kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipire2Scj8ysfKM) www.masonrycosmetics.com.

[@alexisjankowski3281]

I hate painted brick. My step mom suggested that we paint our brick house and my husband sort of agreed. I nearly gagged.

[@confucius2616]

Alexis Jankowski I agree with you. Brick is great just the way it is.

[@bradleyburton5034]

What if you hated the color of your brick?

[@confucius2616]

Bradley Burton I agree. I love regular brick but I’ve got white brick on a fireplace that I hate. Wish I could change the color of it

[@BernieSutliff]

@@confucius2616 Can't you paint it another color? I'm considering purchasing "Brick-Anew" paint for my brick fireplace. It isn't all one color, as their youtube videos show.

[@confucius2616]

Bernie Pitra Sutliff I don’t have any experience with that but I’ll definitely look into it

[@billnumby1080]

Nothing spells trailer trash faster than painting brick, but you will never convince the simple minded who would sacrifice their own lives or that of their children, on a suggestion from the Kardashians.

[@Dave-te7ed]

But brick is ugly.

[@MasonryCosmetics]

All of us at Masonry Cosmetics believe Brick is Beautiful. Let us help you bring out the beauty in your brick. www,masonrycosmetics.com