When it comes to transforming and modernizing brick, block and other masonry surfaces, there’s no shortage of options—but not all finishes are created equal. If you’re deciding between breathable Stayntech® masonry stains and traditional coatings, it’s worth understanding how each one works, how they appear and how long they last. Below is a breakdown of Stayntech®, mineral stains, whitewashing, limewashing and German smear.
What is Stayntech®?
Stayntech® is an advanced, penetrating masonry stain that is specially formulated for porous brick, block, and mortar. Unlike paint, which forms a thick, non-breathable film on top of the masonry surface, the water-based stain works by soaking into masonry pores. This allows the masonry to maintain its natural color variations, surface textures and breathability.
In practice, this means you can modernize a brick home to a warm white, soft gray or dramatic charcoal finish without compromising the integrity of the masonry or making it look painted or artificial. Because Stayntech® is specifically engineered to preserve the natural beauty of masonry, the original textures and character remain visible.
- Surface penetrating stain (not a surface coating)
- Natural, non-painted looking finish
- Creates a permanent, breathable color change
- Natural texture preservation
- Allows moisture vapor to pass through the masonry
- Can be customized to achieve subtle tone shifts or dramatic color changes
- Maintains original masonry textures for more depth and variation
- Color flexibility with 12 exclusive contemporary colors and 2 accent colors
- Stain light to dark or dark to light
- Stained brick can be re-stained a different color when trends change
- Exceptionally durable with long-lasting color
- 15-year warranty against bubbling, chipping and peeling
- Independent laboratory testing performed by MPT, Inc., demonstrated exceptional longterm-performance in demanding environmental conditions
- Provides more design and color flexibility than other coatings
What are mineral stains?
Mineral masonry stains are a category of coatings made from inorganic pigments and mineral binders that react with masonry surfaces. The stains penetrate the substrate and often form a chemical bond with brick, block or mortar. Mineral stains often come in powders and must be mixed prior to the application.
- Breathable masonry treatment
- Can produce uneven coloration
- Depending on the formulation, UV exposure and moisture cycling can gradually create fading, whitening, patchiness and inconsistent again
- Brick porosity, age, and moisture levels can create a blotchy or inconsistent finish
- Limited to earthy or muted mineral tones
- Difficult to control the final appearance
- Less effective on dense brick which can lead to inconsistent adhesion
- Highly sensitive to contaminants including efflorescence, dirt and mildew
- Most likely will require continued maintenance
What is whitewash?
Many homeowners love the soft, updated look of whitewashed brick. It can brighten up a home, create a rustic farmhouse feel, and make older masonry appear more modern. Whitewash is traditionally a watered-down latex paint mixture that is applied on top of masonry to create a faded, partially opaque appearance for a rustic or aged look.
At first glance, whitewash may appear to be a simple and cost-effective solution, But over time, reapplication costs can add up as the whitewash ages. While whitewash may initially look appealing, some homeowners eventually discover its limitations—especially when it comes to durability, maintenance, consistency, and long-term performance. Whitewash typically ages and wears unevenly over time, resulting in inconsistent color that eventually fades, depending on exposure. Importantly, it may be challenging to control when being applied and will most likely require ongoing maintenance over time.
- Light, semi-transparent coating
- Provides a washed/painted appearance
- Gives a soft, muted look
- Paint-based product that dries on the masonry surface
- Customizable opacity
- Limited breathability
- Moderate durability
- Requires occasional touch-ups
What is limewashing?
Limewashing is one of the oldest masonry finishes, dating back centuries. It is a mixture of lime (calcium hydroxide), water and natural pigments that is applied to the masonry surface. When applied, the breathable coating soaks into the masonry and gradually cures, creating a soft, chalky, and slightly weathered appearance. The application results in a historic, aged appearance.
- Typically white or lightly tinted
- Breathable
- Soft, aged European appearance
- Develops more character over time
- Wears over time
- Typically requires periodic reapplication
- Moderate durability
- Will not peel but will likely erode
- Requires reapplication every few years
What is German smear?
German smear (sometimes called German schmear) is a decorative masonry technique that involves spreading wet mortar over brick and then partially wiping it away before it dries. The process leaves a textured, uneven finish where portions of the original brick remain exposed while other areas are heavily coated with mortar. The German smear look is inspired by old European cottages and historic masonry buildings that naturally weathered over time. However, it does not preserve the natural appearance of masonry.
- Thick mortar coating applied to masonry
- Heavy texture and irregular variation
- Rustic, old-world appearance
- Limited color options
- Often white, cream or light gray
- Covers portions of the natural brick surface
- Permanently covers brick texture, hiding much of the natural depth, texture and character of masonry
- Removal is extremely difficult, labor-intensive, and costly
- Final finish can look heavy, artificial, muddy or excessively rustic
- Difficult to repair and touch-up
Stayntech® and the four brick coloring techniques previously mentioned can dramatically change the appearance of masonry—but they differ in how they interact with brick surfaces and how they age over time. Whitewashing, limewashing, mineral masonry stains and German smear all attempt to improve the appearance of brick, block and mortar, but each of them comes with downsides that require compromises. Stayntech® is a long-lasting solution backed by decades of proven performance and extraordinary durability. Whether used for residential brick homes or large commercial masonry projects, Stayntech® provides a reliable option to modernize aging masonry while preserving its integrity.
To request a commercial service estimate or to purchase Stayntech® masonry stain, please visit stayntech.com.