Interior brick walls add a unique character and warmth to any living space. However, if you want to refresh or change the appearance of your brick walls, you need to choose the right paint and primer.
Paint and primer made specifically for masonry surfaces is a safe choice for painting interior brick. Acrylic-latex paints are best, as they’re easy to clean up and are highly resistant to mold and mildew. A primer with sealing properties will also help seal in the brick and give a good base for the paint to adhere to.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 5 factors to consider when choosing paint for interior brick
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for interior brick
The 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Interior Brick
1. Type of Paint
The first step in selecting the perfect paint for your brick walls is determining the type of paint you need. Brick walls have a porous surface, and some paints may not adhere correctly, leading to peeling and flaking.
Therefore, choose a paint specifically designed for brick surfaces, such as masonry paint. Masonry paints are formulated to penetrate the brick surface and provide a long-lasting finish.
2. Color
Choosing the right color for your interior brick walls can be overwhelming. You want a color that enhances your existing decor and gives your space a unique character. When choosing paint colors, consider the undertones of your furnishings, flooring, and accents.
Neutral colors are popular for interior brick walls, complementing almost any decor style and creating a cozy ambiance. Earthy tones, such as beige, cream, and gray, work well in most settings.
3. Finish
The finish you choose can significantly impact the final look of your brick walls. Different finishes provide different textures, depths, and shine to shelves. Common finishes for interior brick walls include matte, satin, and gloss.
If you want a natural look, a matte finish works best, providing a flat look without any shine. Gloss finishes, on the other hand, offer a high shine and reflect light, creating a polished look. Satin finishes balance matte and gloss, providing a subtle sheen to the walls.
4. Climate
Your environment can impact the success of your interior brick painting project. Choosing paint with superior mold and mildew resistance should be a top priority for those who live in cold and damp areas.
On the other hand, individuals living in hot and humid climates may wish to select a paint with UV resistance as it will help prevent fading and discoloration in direct sunlight.
5. Coverage
The coverage of the paint you select will depend on several factors, including your brick’s porosity and the number of coats you plan to apply. Generally speaking, high-quality paints require fewer coats for adequate coverage.
If you want a thicker finish, look for an interior brick paint with higher opacity. Also, consider how much time you have. Some paints offer faster drying times than others.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic-Latex (Water-based Acrylic)
Acrylic-latex paint is water-based paint composed of an acrylic resin binder. It is considered the highest quality latex paint and provides superior adhesion, durability, and flexibility compared to other types of paint.
Acrylic-latex paint is great for painting interior bricks because it can flex slightly, making it less likely to crack or go brittle. Additionally, it provides excellent coverage and color retention.
Pros
- Flexible, making it less likely to crack or go brittle
- Superior adhesion and durability
- Excellent coverage and color retention
Cons
- It can be more expensive than other types of paints
- Requires multiple coats for full coverage
Oil-based Paint
Oil-based paint is a type of paint that uses oil as its main binder. It is typically used for painting interior and exterior surfaces, such as walls, trim, and furniture.
Oil-based paints are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, making them ideal for painting interior bricks.
Pros
- Highly durable and can withstand wear and tear better
- Easy to clean with soap and water
Cons
- More expensive than other types of paints
- Has a strong odor that can linger in the air long
What Paint Finish Is Best?
Since brick has a unique texture that should be highlighted, a semi- or high-gloss finish is the best choice. These finishes will showcase the brick’s natural character, giving it depth and dimension.
Aside from aesthetics, the practicality of the chosen paint finish should also be considered. A semi- or high-gloss finish is easy to clean, making it ideal for interior brick walls prone to dirt, dust, and grime. Additionally, these finishes are highly durable, which means they can withstand wear and tear and last for a long time.
It’s worth noting that a matte or flat finish is not recommended for interior brick as they tend to absorb moisture and stains more easily. This can result in discoloration and an overall worn-out appearance, which is not the desired effect when painting interior brick.
The Best Paint and Primer for Interior Brick
It is possible to use a spray paint or paint sprayer to paint interior brick. Using a paint sprayer ensures an even and smooth application of the paint, which is ideal for brick surfaces that can be rough and porous. Using a respirator mask and proper ventilation when using a paint sprayer is also recommended.
Best Paint
Behr Masonry, Stucco & Brick Paint is a premium acrylic latex paint. When painting interior brick, there is no match for this paint. It boasts excellent hiding properties, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to give their interior brick a fresh look.
Not only is this paint suitable for interior use, but it is also ideal for exterior surfaces. This self-priming paint offers exceptional adhesion and water repellency on properly prepared surfaces. This water-based formula covers you whether you have smooth, rough, or textured masonry, stucco, or brick surfaces.
One of the standout features of this paint is its ability to accentuate all textured surfaces while achieving a natural look. Behr Masonry, Stucco & Brick Paint is alkali-resistant, making it a durable and long-lasting option for any climate. This paint can last up to 20 years in all weather conditions.
Best Primer
KILZ 2 All-Purpose Interior and Exterior Primer is the ideal primer for interior brick. It boasts impressive features, including its ability to bond to porous surfaces and promote adhesion.
One of the biggest advantages of using KILZ 2 as your primer for interior brick is its ability to block light and medium stains. Any existing stains or discolorations on your brick wall will be effectively concealed, ensuring a smooth and uniform paint job.
But that’s not all, it also provides excellent coverage, hiding any previous color on your brick wall. This is particularly important if you’re transitioning from a darker color to a lighter one, as it can be difficult to achieve full coverage without the help of a high-quality primer.
In addition to being an effective stain blocker and color hider, KILZ 2 All-Purpose Interior and Exterior Primer also boasts a mildew-resistant finish. This is especially important in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture can lead to unsightly and potentially hazardous mold growth.