let’s talk: EXTERIOR PAINT
Hey Guys!
Project H update! We have decided we want to give the exterior a makeover. Currently our entire exterior is a red brick with a beige-ish grout and while it is nice, it is dated, and is just not the style we are hoping to achieve. So we decided we want to paint the brick and have been doing a ton of research on the matter.
So, as we do, let’s talk Real Estate, let’s talk PAINTING YOUR BRICK EXTERIOR…
PREP IS KEY
Proper prep is required to ensure that the paint does not trap in moisture once it is applied to the brick. Trapped moisture will not only chip the paint, but can also damage the brick itself.
MATERIALS ARE KEY
It is important to use a mineral based or silicates paint.
THIS IS NOT A DIY PROJECT
If this is not done correctly, you can seriously damage your home… I am talking structurally damage your home. So we are leaving this to the professionals to do!
POWER WASHING WILL BECOME A HOUSEHOLD CHORE
Painted exteriors tend to show more dirt and mildew than non-painted exteriors. So you will have to pull out the power washer every once in a while to clean it off.
PAINTING IS A PERMANENT DECISION THAT REQUIRES UPKEEP
Once you paint your brick, you cannot “un-paint” it. And if you go a lighter color, you will have to touch it up every 5-10 years.
I am sure you’re thinking, this sounds like too much of a hassle, why would anyone paint their brick home?
CURB APPEAL
Painting a brick home can really bring it up to date. We are hoping that by painting our red brick home a creamy white, we can make it look fresh and new.
HELPS PREVENT DAMAGE FROM WATER + SUNLIGHT
From a practical standpoint, a painted exterior can actually help act as a sealant, protesting your home from water damage and weather changes (permitting the home was prepped properly).
ARE THERE OTHER WAYS TO CHANGE THE COLOR OF YOUR EXTERIOR BESIDES PAINT?
Yes, definitely.
(1) Limewash
Limewash is a method that has been used to protect bricks from weather and erosion. Limewash is a way to change the color of your bricks chemically. It typically creates a more lived-in look vs a clean paint job. While lime wash does require touch up over the years, it is typically more affordable than painting. Fun fact that we also learned this week, if your brick has been lime washed you cannot paint over it in the future. So if you choose to lime wash your exterior, make sure you are okay with this lifelong commitment!
(2) Stain
Who knew you could stain brick?! This was news to me! When the stain is applied, it sinks into the pores of the brick allowing the brick to keep its original texture. It also is much more chip-resistant! That being said, the process to applying stain is much more labor intensive, can require many more layers than paint and cannot be applied to damaged or or decaying brick. While we plan to paint the sides of the home, we do plan to stain the brick walkways and patios in hopes to create a more natural look and prevent the color from chipping away too soon due to foot traffic.
HAVE ANY OF YOU ON HERE EVER PAINTED YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR? DO YOU REGRET IT?! WE ARE DEFINITELY EXCITED ABOUT THE PROCESS BUT ALSO NERVOUS ABOUT THE UPKEEP SO WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS.
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Erin
p.s. LET’S CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Blog: www.erinkelly.org
Instagram: @erin.lindsey.kelly
Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/ErinHomeandRE
Twitter: @ErinKellyHomes
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlindseykelly/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/erinhomeandrealestate/
LinkTree:https://linktr.ee/erin.home.and.realestate
p.p.s. If you are comfortable would you mind leaving me a review?! Would love to know how you are liking this blog or if you have enjoyed working together!
Google Business Page
All data and information provided in this email is for informational purposes only. This email makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.
Opinions stated here are my own and not the views of eXp Realty.
Data Sources for Today’s Content:
Me – This is based on my own personal experiences & opinions
