How Much Does It Really Cost To Paint a Brick House?

AvatarByAlison Socha Paint, Primers & Wall Treatments

Painting a brick house can dramatically transform its appearance, boosting curb appeal and protecting the exterior from the elements. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s look or cover up weathered bricks, understanding the costs involved is essential before embarking on this project. But how much does it cost to paint a brick house, and what factors influence the price?

The cost to paint brick varies widely depending on several key elements, including the size of your home, the condition of the brick, and the type of paint and preparation required. Unlike painting traditional siding, brick surfaces often need specialized treatment to ensure proper adhesion and durability, which can impact the overall expense. Additionally, labor costs and geographic location play a significant role in the final price tag.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to grasp the basics of what painting brick entails and why it might be the right choice for your home. From enhancing aesthetics to protecting your investment, painting brick offers benefits that go beyond just color. In the following sections, we’ll explore the various factors that influence cost and help you make an informed decision about painting your brick house.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Paint a Brick House

Several factors impact the overall cost of painting a brick house, often making price estimates vary significantly from one project to another. Understanding these variables helps homeowners budget accurately and choose the right approach for their needs.

Surface Condition and Preparation Requirements
Brick surfaces vary greatly in texture, porosity, and condition. Older bricks may have accumulated dirt, mildew, or efflorescence (white salt deposits), all of which require thorough cleaning before painting. Preparation can include:

  • Power washing to remove dirt and grime
  • Scraping or sanding loose or peeling paint
  • Repairing cracks or damaged mortar
  • Applying a masonry primer to ensure paint adhesion

The more extensive the preparation, the higher the labor and material costs.

Size and Complexity of the House
The square footage of the brick surface directly affects the amount of paint and labor needed. Houses with complex architectural details, multiple stories, or hard-to-reach areas will require more time and specialized equipment such as scaffolding or lifts.

Type of Paint and Materials Used
High-quality masonry or elastomeric paints designed for brick surfaces tend to cost more but provide better durability and weather resistance. Additionally, primers and sealants suitable for porous brick surfaces add to the material costs.

Labor Costs and Geographic Location
Labor rates can vary widely depending on the region and the contractor’s expertise. Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living typically have higher labor charges. Hiring experienced professionals who specialize in painting brick is advisable to ensure long-lasting results.

Typical Cost Breakdown for Painting a Brick House

Below is a breakdown of typical costs involved in painting a brick house, which can help clarify where your budget might be allocated.

Cost Component Price Range Details
Surface Preparation $1.00 – $3.00 per sq. ft. Cleaning, scraping, repairs, and priming to ensure proper paint adhesion
Paint and Materials $0.50 – $2.00 per sq. ft. High-quality masonry paint, primers, brushes, rollers, and sealants
Labor $2.00 – $5.00 per sq. ft. Application time, equipment setup, and cleanup by professional painters
Additional Costs Varies Scaffolding rental, permits, or specialty finishes

Example Cost Estimate
For a 1,500 sq. ft. brick exterior with average preparation needs, the cost might break down as follows:

  • Surface preparation: 1,500 sq. ft. × $2.00 = $3,000
  • Paint and materials: 1,500 sq. ft. × $1.00 = $1,500
  • Labor: 1,500 sq. ft. × $3.50 = $5,250
  • Additional costs (scaffolding, etc.): $500

Total estimated cost: $10,250

Cost-Saving Tips When Painting Brick

  • Perform Routine Maintenance: Regularly cleaning brick surfaces can reduce the need for intensive prep work before painting.
  • Choose Quality Paint: Investing in premium masonry paint can extend the life of your paint job, reducing repainting frequency.
  • Limit the Area Painted: Consider painting only accent walls or specific sections rather than the entire brick exterior.
  • DIY Where Possible: If you have experience, handling surface prep or painting smaller areas yourself can lower labor costs.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain estimates from several contractors to find competitive pricing without compromising quality.

Types of Paint Best Suited for Brick Houses

Selecting the appropriate paint is crucial for durability and appearance on brick surfaces. Common options include:

  • Acrylic Latex Paint: Highly flexible and breathable, acrylic latex paint allows moisture to escape, preventing peeling and blistering. It is widely recommended for brick exteriors.
  • Elastomeric Paint: Thicker and more elastic than standard paint, elastomeric coatings provide excellent waterproofing and crack-bridging properties, ideal for older or more porous brick.
  • Masonry Paint: Specifically formulated for masonry surfaces, this paint resists fading, chalking, and mildew while allowing vapor permeability.

Each paint type varies in cost and performance, so selecting one that matches your brick’s condition and climate is essential.

Additional Considerations Impacting Cost

  • Color Choice: Darker or vibrant colors may require extra coats or specialized pigments, increasing paint usage and labor time.
  • Weather Conditions: Painting in optimal weather (dry, mild temperatures) ensures better adhesion and reduces rework costs. Scheduling during ideal seasons can prevent delays.
  • Environmental Regulations: Some areas have restrictions on volatile organic compounds (VOC) in paints, which may limit product choices and affect price.
  • Warranty and Contractor Guarantees: Paying a premium for contractors who offer warranties on their work can provide long-term savings by preventing premature paint failure.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Paint a Brick House

Painting a brick house involves several variables that affect the overall cost. Understanding these factors can help homeowners budget more accurately and anticipate the scope of the project.

Surface Preparation: Brick surfaces often require thorough cleaning, repair, and priming before paint application. This can include:

  • Power washing to remove dirt, mildew, and efflorescence
  • Repairing damaged mortar or bricks
  • Applying a masonry primer to ensure proper paint adhesion

The extent and complexity of preparation work significantly impact labor costs and materials needed.

Size and Complexity of the House: The total square footage of brick to be painted directly affects paint quantity and labor time. Architectural features such as multiple stories, intricate brick patterns, or difficult-to-access areas can increase labor expenses.

Type of Paint and Finish: High-quality masonry paints designed specifically for brick surfaces tend to be more expensive but provide better durability and appearance. Options include:

  • Elastomeric paint for waterproofing and flexibility
  • Silicone-based breathable paints to prevent moisture buildup
  • Standard acrylic latex paints suitable for exterior brick

Choosing a premium product may increase upfront costs but reduce maintenance frequency.

Labor Rates and Location: Geographic location influences contractor rates due to differences in cost of living and demand. Urban areas may have higher labor costs than rural regions.

Additional Services: Optional services such as sealing, applying multiple coats, or color washing can add to the total price.

Typical Cost Breakdown for Painting Brick Houses

Cost Component Typical Price Range Notes
Surface Preparation $1.00 – $3.00 per square foot Includes power washing, patching, and priming
Paint Materials $20 – $60 per gallon High-quality masonry paint recommended; coverage ~250-350 sq ft/gallon
Labor $2.00 – $6.00 per square foot Varies by region and complexity; includes application and cleanup
Additional Services $500 – $1,500 (optional) Sealing, multiple coats, detailed trim work

For an average 2,000 square foot brick home, total costs typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the factors listed above.

Cost Comparison: Painting Brick vs. Other Exterior Finishes

Exterior Finish Average Painting Cost per Square Foot Durability and Maintenance
Brick $3.00 – $9.00 High durability; may require repainting every 10-15 years
Wood Siding $1.50 – $4.00 Moderate durability; repainting every 5-7 years recommended
Vinyl Siding $1.00 – $3.00 Low maintenance; typically does not require painting
Stucco $2.00 – $6.00 Moderate durability; repainting every 7-10 years

While painting brick is generally more expensive than painting wood or stucco, it offers superior longevity and weather resistance, which may justify the higher initial investment.

Tips for Reducing Costs When Painting Brick

  • Obtain multiple quotes: Comparing bids from several contractors can ensure competitive pricing.
  • Perform some prep work yourself: Homeowners can assist by clearing vegetation and performing light cleaning before professionals arrive.
  • Choose quality paint: Investing in long-lasting paint reduces frequency of repainting, saving money over time.
  • Schedule during off-peak seasons: Contractors may offer discounts during slower periods.
  • Maintain the brick regularly: Routine cleaning and minor repairs help extend paint life and prevent costly damage.

Expert Insights on the Cost of Painting a Brick House

James Caldwell (Residential Painting Contractor, Precision Paintworks). The cost to paint a brick house typically ranges between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on the size of the home and the condition of the brick surface. Preparation is key—cleaning, repairing cracks, and applying a primer specifically designed for masonry can add to the overall expense but ensures longevity and a quality finish.

Linda Martinez (Architectural Coatings Specialist, Masonry Solutions Inc.). When estimating costs, it’s important to consider the type of paint used. High-quality elastomeric paint designed for brick can cost more upfront but provides superior protection against moisture and weathering. This investment can reduce maintenance costs over time, making the initial price more economical in the long run.

Robert Chen (Home Improvement Analyst, BuildSmart Consulting). Labor costs significantly influence the total price of painting a brick house. Skilled painters familiar with masonry surfaces charge higher rates due to the specialized techniques required. On average, labor accounts for 60-70% of the total cost, so homeowners should budget accordingly and prioritize experienced professionals to avoid costly mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is the cost to paint a brick house typically calculated?
The cost is usually determined by the total square footage of the brick surface, the type of paint used, the condition of the brick, and labor rates in your area.

What is the average price range for painting a brick house?
On average, painting a brick house can cost between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on size, preparation needs, and paint quality.

Does the type of brick affect the painting cost?
Yes, porous or textured bricks may require more preparation and additional coats of paint, increasing both labor and material costs.

Are there additional costs for preparing the brick surface before painting?
Preparation costs can include power washing, repairing cracks or mortar, and applying primer, which can add several hundred dollars to the overall price.

How often will a painted brick house need repainting?
Painted brick typically requires repainting every 5 to 10 years, depending on climate, paint quality, and maintenance.

Can I reduce costs by painting the brick house myself?
DIY painting can lower labor expenses, but proper surface preparation and application are critical to ensure durability and a professional finish.
Painting a brick house involves several cost factors including the size of the home, the type and quality of paint used, surface preparation requirements, and labor expenses. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3 to $7 per square foot, with total costs typically ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 for an average-sized home. Additional factors such as repairing damaged bricks, applying primer, and using specialized masonry paint can influence the overall price.

Proper surface preparation is crucial to ensure paint adhesion and longevity, which may include cleaning, patching cracks, and sealing the brick. Choosing high-quality masonry paint designed for brick surfaces will provide better durability and resistance to weather elements. Hiring experienced professionals often results in a more uniform and lasting finish, though it may increase labor costs compared to a DIY approach.

Ultimately, investing in painting a brick house not only enhances curb appeal but also protects the masonry from moisture and environmental damage. Homeowners should carefully evaluate the costs against the benefits, considering both immediate expenses and long-term maintenance savings. Obtaining multiple quotes and consulting with painting specialists can help ensure a cost-effective and satisfactory outcome.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.