How to Whitewash Exterior Brick
To whitewash exterior brick, you can achieve a fresh, clean, modern look by following these steps.
Firstly, ensure the brick is clean by power washing it.
If there is existing paint, consider professional removal if it contains lead.
Protect the work area by removing furniture and covering the floor.
Gather the necessary tools and materials, including a scrub brush, spray bottle, white paint, gray paint, and TSP solution.
Mix a 50/50 solution of water and white latex paint to create the whitewash mixture.
Apply the mixture using a brush or paint sprayer, dabbing the paint instead of wiping for a natural texture.
Use a cotton cloth with thinned paint for the damp brick surface and dry brush for recessed mortar.
Allow the paint to dry and seal it with a water-based sealer if desired for added protection.
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Did You Know?
1. The practice of whitewashing exterior brick dates as far back as ancient Rome, where it was commonly used to give a fresh and clean appearance to buildings.
2. Whitewashing is not limited to brick alone; it was also popularly used on other materials such as wood, stone, and even fences, to provide a protective and visually appealing coating.
3. One of the main reasons for whitewashing brick is its ability to reflect sunlight, which helps to keep the building cooler, especially during hot summer months.
4. In the past, whitewashing was often done using an ancient technique involving a mixture of lime, salt, and either water or milk. This method is still occasionally used for historical restoration purposes.
5. Interestingly, the term “whitewash” is not only associated with exterior brick, but also has a metaphorical meaning. It can refer to the act of concealing or glossing over something, as if hiding imperfections with a layer of white paint.
Choosing The Whitewash Method
When it comes to whitewashing exterior brick, there are multiple methods that can be used to achieve the desired result. The first decision to make is choosing the type of material to be used for the whitewash. White paint, limestone, or white mortar can all be used for this purpose. Each material will give a slightly different look and texture to the brick.
If the brick is unpainted, whitewashing can be done directly on the surface. However, if there is existing paint on the brick, it may need to be professionally removed, especially if it contains toxic lead paint. This is an important step to ensure a safe and effective whitewashing process.
Preparing The Brick Surface
Before starting the whitewashing process, it is crucial to prepare the brick surface. This involves cleaning the brick thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or loose paint. One of the recommended methods for cleaning the brick is by using an exterior power washer. This will effectively remove any dirt or loose paint and provide a clean surface for the whitewashing.
In addition to power washing, steps should be taken to protect the work area. This includes:
- Removing any furniture or objects near the brick.
- Covering the floor with a drop cloth or sheet plastic.
- Wearing protective gear such as gloves and goggles.
These measures will ensure a safe and clean environment for the whitewashing process.
Note: Proper preparation and protection are essential for a successful whitewashing project. Taking the time to clean the brick surface and safeguarding the work area will result in a smoother and more satisfactory outcome.
Tools And Materials Needed
To successfully whitewash the exterior brick, you will need the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Scrub brush
- Spray bottle
- Wire brush
- Putty knife
- Mixing bucket
- Drop cloth
- Sheet plastic
- Chip brushes
- Cotton rags
Materials:
- Brick surface
- Painter’s tape
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Limewash solution
- White paint
- Gray paint
- TSP (trisodium phosphate) or alternative
The amount of paint and limewash required will vary depending on the surface area you are covering.
When selecting a whitewash paint for the exterior, it is important to consider the colors of the roof, trim, and existing brick. The goal is to choose a paint color that enhances the overall aesthetic of the building while achieving the desired whitewashed look.
- Make sure to use a scrub brush to thoroughly clean the brick surface before applying the whitewash.
- Use painter’s tape and sheet plastic to protect surrounding areas from overspray or drips.
- Mix the desired ratio of limewash solution and water in a mixing bucket, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the limewash solution to the brick using a chip brush, working in small sections at a time.
- Use a scrub brush or rag to blend the limewash into the brick, creating a softer and more natural look.
- If desired, you can also add white or gray paint to the limewash mixture to customize the color.
- Allow the whitewash to fully dry before applying additional coats or moving on to the next section.
- Clean your tools and brushes with warm soapy water after use.
Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving a successful whitewashed exterior brick. Take your time and follow the proper steps for the best results.
Applying The Whitewash
To apply the whitewash, follow these steps:
- Prepare the surface and gather all the necessary tools and materials.
- Create a whitewash mixture by mixing a 50/50 solution of water and white latex paint. Adjust the mixture according to your desired level of opacity.
- Section off the areas to be painted using painter’s tape to ensure clean edges and prevent unintended paint spreading.
- Using a brush, gently dab the whitewash mixture onto the brick, rather than wiping, to achieve a more natural texture that allows the brick’s texture and hue to show through.
- For larger areas of brick, you can use a paint sprayer along with water from a spray bottle to dilute the paint and achieve a more even application.
- To prevent drips and streaks, make sure to remove excess paint before applying.
- For added depth and variation, you can use a cotton cloth with thinned paint to wipe onto the damp brick surface.
- For recessed mortar and hard-to-reach places, you can use a dry brushing technique to apply a thin layer of paint.
Remember to always work on a damp brick surface for best results.
Achieving The Desired Look
After the initial application of the whitewash, the first coat may look thicker than desired. However, over time, it will be absorbed by the brick, resulting in a more natural and subtle look. To achieve a more distressed or aged appearance, lightly scrubbing the bricks with a damp cloth in a circular motion can create subtle variations and imperfections.
It is important to periodically step back and evaluate the progress to ensure the desired look is being achieved. If necessary, additional coats of whitewash can be applied to darken or lighten the overall appearance. Taking the time to perfect the technique and achieve the desired aesthetic will ensure a successful whitewashing of the exterior brick.
Sealing The Whitewashed Brick
To protect the whitewashed brick and enhance its longevity, it is recommended to apply a clear, water-based sealer. This will create a barrier between the brick and external elements, preventing fading, discoloration, or damage.
After the paint has completely dried, the sealer can be applied using a brush or sprayer. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time. Once the sealer has dried, the whitewashed brick will have a beautiful, refreshed appearance and be protected from the elements.
Whitewashing exterior brick can be a transformative process that updates the look of a building and creates a fresh, clean, modern appearance.
Using proper materials and preparing the brick surface, you can achieve the desired look by applying the whitewash with care. Proper maintenance of the sealed whitewashed brick will ensure it can last for many years.
To summarize:
- Apply a clear, water-based sealer to protect the whitewashed brick from fading, discoloration, and damage.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
- Use a brush or sprayer to apply the sealer after the paint has dried.
- The sealed whitewashed brick will have a refreshed appearance and be protected from the elements.
With these steps, whitewashing exterior brick can effectively update the look of a building, creating a fresh and modern appearance that can last for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paint to use to whitewash exterior brick?
To whitewash exterior brick, it is recommended to use thinned latex paint. By diluting white or gray paint with water at a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1, you can achieve a natural finish that resembles true lime whitewash. This technique allows the brick’s color and texture to shine through, giving it a transparent appearance.
Is it OK to whitewash exterior brick?
Yes, it is certainly acceptable to whitewash exterior brick. The use of a lime whitewash solution on porous surfaces such as brick, stone, and concrete is an effective method. The dissolved limestone in the whitewash solution forms a durable finish by calcifying onto the brick surfaces. Whether applied indoors or outdoors, this technique can successfully enhance the appearance of the exterior brick without compromising its durability.
How do you whitewash an outdoor brick wall?
To whitewash an outdoor brick wall, you can start by preparing the whitewash mixture. Combine equal parts of water and latex paint in a bucket, ensuring a consistent blend. If you desire a lighter shade of white, you can add more water to the mixture, adjusting the ratio based on your desired effect. Once the whitewash mixture is ready, use a paintbrush or roller to apply the mixture evenly onto the brick wall, ensuring good coverage. Allow the whitewash to dry thoroughly before assessing the desired brightness. If necessary, apply additional coats until the desired effect is achieved.
How long does whitewash last on exterior brick?
Whitewash is a versatile coating that can extend the lifespan of exterior brick surfaces. By providing a smooth finish and utilizing existing paint, it offers a convenient and cost-effective solution. The longevity of whitewash on exterior brick largely depends on proper application and maintenance. However, with careful attention, it has the potential to endure up to two decades, making it a durable and low-maintenance choice for enhancing the appearance of brick exteriors.