The Best Paint for Brick Exterior with Colors and Inspirations

Brick exteriors offer character, but sometimes they need a refresh.

Faded color, outdated tones, or worn surfaces can make your home look tired. The right paint changes brick from drab to beautiful while protecting it for years to come.

I’m going to show you the best paints for brick exteriors and share color options that work. You’ll learn which finishes hold up outdoors and get real inspiration for your project.

Do You Need Special Paints for Brick Homes?

Yes, brick needs breathable paint. Regular paint traps moisture inside the brick, which causes peeling and damage over time.

Brick is porous. It absorbs water and releases it naturally. When you cover it with standard paint, that moisture gets stuck. The paint bubbles up and fails within a year or two.

Look for acrylic latex paints made for masonry. These formulas let moisture escape while protecting the surface. They’re flexible too, so they move with the brick as temperatures change. That prevents cracking.

You can use regular exterior paint on brick, but you’ll regret it. The right masonry paint costs about the same and lasts much longer.

The Types: Best Paint for Brick Exterior

I’ve tested and researched different paint types for brick exteriors. Each one has specific benefits depending on your home’s needs and climate.

Here’s what works best.

1. Acrylic Latex Paint

This is my top choice for most brick homes.

Acrylic latex paint breathes well and lets moisture escape naturally. It’s flexible, so it moves with your brick through temperature changes.

The paint resists fading from sun exposure and cleans up easily with water. You’ll get good coverage and durability without breaking the bank.

2. Elastomeric Paint

Elastomeric paint is thicker than regular paint and fills hairline cracks as you apply it.

It creates a waterproof barrier that protects the brick from rain and snow.

This paint stretches up to 300% without cracking, which makes it perfect for older homes. It costs more upfront but lasts longer than standard options. Great for harsh weather conditions.

3. Mineral Paint

Mineral paint bonds chemically with brick instead of just sitting on the surface. It’s made from natural minerals and creates a breathable finish that won’t peel or bubble.

This paint looks matte and slightly textured, giving you an authentic appearance. It’s eco-friendly and contains no VOCs. The color penetrates deep, so it ages gracefully over time.

4. Lime Paint

Lime paint has been used on brick for centuries and still works beautifully today. It’s highly breathable and actually improves with age as it hardens over time.

The paint has natural antimicrobial properties that prevent mold and mildew growth.

It creates a soft, chalky finish with depth and character. You’ll need to reapply it more often than modern paints.

5. Masonry Primer + Topcoat System

I recommend this when you want maximum protection and longevity for your brick. The primer seals the porous surface and creates strong adhesion for your topcoat.

Your topcoat goes on smoother and covers better with proper priming underneath. This two-step approach costs more but delivers professional results

Pros and Cons: Should You Paint Bricks?

Painting brick is a big decision because it’s pretty much permanent. You need to understand both sides before you commit.

Best Color for Your Brick Exterior with Inspirations

Color choice makes or breaks your brick painting project; the right shade complements your home’s style.

Navy Blue – Benjamin Moore Hale Navy HC-154

Navy Blue brings personality to brick exteriors while staying classic and refined at the same time.

I have personally worked with a lot of clients where I used Hale Navy BM in their interiors, and let me tell you – they loved every bit of it.

This color has enough richness to look intentional, not gimmicky or trendy.

It pairs beautifully with white trim, copper accents, and natural wood doors. The color works year-round and looks great in both sunny and overcast weather.

Classic White – Benjamin Moore Cloud White OC-130

Cloud White (OC-130) white gives brick homes a clean look without being too stark. It reflects light beautifully, making your home look larger and more inviting.

The warm undertones prevent that cold appearance you get with pure white. It pairs well with black shutters and natural wood accents.

Soft Gray – Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray SW 7029

This greige (gray-beige) shade is incredibly paintable and hides dirt better than white. It has warm undertones that prevent your home from looking cold or industrial.

The color shifts slightly in different lighting, adding depth to the brick texture. Agreeable Gray works especially well on ranch-style and contemporary homes with clean lines.

Charcoal Black – Farrow & Ball Railings No. 31

Black painted brick creates a bold look that stands out in any neighborhood. This deep Charcoal Black has subtle blue undertones that prevent it from looking flat.

The color hides imperfections in the brick texture. It’s perfect for modern homes and creates a striking contrast with greenery and landscaping.

Sage Green – Behr Sage Green (ICC-77)

This muted green connects your home to nature and creates a calming, organic feel. It’s soft enough to be subtle but has enough color to make a statement.

It complements stone accents, wood elements, and natural landscaping beautifully. Sage green works particularly well on cottage-style homes and ranch houses with lots of surrounding greenery.

Dusty Blue – Sherwin-Williams Distance SW 6243

Dusty blue creates a coastal-inspired look that’s not overly beachy. The color photographs beautifully and look great in person during all seasons and times of day.

It pairs well with white trim, black accents, and natural wood tones. Distance works on traditional homes and adds charm to mid-century modern brick ranches.

Mushroom Taupe – Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172

Mushroom taupe is one of the most foolproof colors for brick exteriors. It has both gray and beige tones that work with virtually any accent color.

It hides dirt and imperfections while still looking fresh and intentional, not washed out. Revere Pewter suits every architectural style and never goes out of fashion.

Tips to Maintain Your Brick Exterior

Painted brick needs regular care to look good and last long. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing costly repairs down the road.

• Inspect annually for cracks and damage: Walk around your home each spring and look for peeling paint or water damage. Catch problems early before they spread.
• Clean gently with low-pressure water: Use a garden hose to remove dirt and debris once or twice a year. High pressure can damage paint and brick.
• Touch up chips and scratches promptly: Keep leftover paint for quick repairs. Clean the area first, then apply thin coats.
• Trim vegetation away from walls: Keep bushes and vines at least 12 inches from painted brick. Plants hold moisture and damage paint.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners: Stick to mild soap and water for cleaning. Harsh chemicals can strip paint or cause damage.
• Check caulking around windows and doors: Replace old, cracked caulk every few years. This prevents water from seeping behind paint

Wrapping It Up

Painting your brick exterior changes your home’s appearance and protects it for years to come. The right paint matters just as much as the color you choose.

Maintenance keeps your painted brick looking fresh. Regular inspections, gentle cleaning, and prompt touch-ups prevent bigger problems down the road.

With proper care, your painted brick exterior will look great for 10-20 years before needing a refresh.

Ready to start your project? Pick your paint type first, then have fun choosing your perfect color