Whitewashing brick is the on-trend practice of applying a weak layer of watered-down paint to brick. The technique typically tones down the natural colors of masonry and often causes extreme variations in appearance. Still, it allows the natural textures of the brick to come through.
It’s a relatively quick solution for many homeowners wanting to update the color of their masonry, but is it the best option?
The practice of whitewashing brick is not new to the design world.
It’s been around for decades and has recently picked up a lot of momentum on the DIY circuit. We can see why the trend is popular.
BrickImaging’s exclusive brick coloring process provides a permanent finish, looks entirely natural, and is maintenance-free. Our brick stains act like dyes and are permanent; they do not inhibit the performance of masonry as it allows the brick to continue breathing and are guaranteed never to bubble, chip, or peel.
BrickImaging has been among the top brick coloring and staining companies in the nation since its founding in 1976. Our proprietary brick stains are absorbed by and integrated with the face of the masonry. As a result, with brick stain, the original surface textures and color variations remain—unlike paint.
Whether you opt for whitewashing, limewashing, or staining, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss details about your latest home improvement project.
Pros and Cons of Whitewashing Brick
Whitewashing brick is typically inexpensive, can be done with paint lying around the house, and the wash is typically easy to apply and dries quickly. Cons of whitewashing masonry include:- A diminished, natural-looking appearance
- Chipping and peeling of paint that was not fully absorbed by the brick
- Difficulty controlling the consistency of the wash
- Potential for an uneven finish
- Whitewashing is not permanent, and maintenance will be required
Other Ways of Updating Brick
Limewash, not to be confused with whitewash, uses a precise mixture of lime, minerals, and water that is applied in a similar process, giving an old-world feel. The result is a finish that looks more natural than whitewashing, is fairly easy to apply, is moisture-resistant, sinks into any porous masonry surface without changing the brick’s texture, and is inexpensive to use. Cons of lime washing brick include:- Will erode of time
- Will not adhere to previously painted masonry
- Continued maintenance beginning in as little as five years
- Limewash may rub off when dry
- A diminished natural-looking appearance
- Difficulty controlling the consistency of the wash
- Potential for an uneven finish
As painting exterior brick, including whitewashing, can bring more continued maintenance and added costs than expected, a brick stain may be the best option for increasing the overall look of your home.
BrickImaging’s exclusive brick coloring process provides a permanent finish, looks entirely natural, and is maintenance-free. Our brick stains act like dyes and are permanent; they do not inhibit the performance of masonry as it allows the brick to continue breathing and are guaranteed never to bubble, chip, or peel.
BrickImaging has been among the top brick coloring and staining companies in the nation since its founding in 1976. Our proprietary brick stains are absorbed by and integrated with the face of the masonry. As a result, with brick stain, the original surface textures and color variations remain—unlike paint.
Whether you opt for whitewashing, limewashing, or staining, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss details about your latest home improvement project.
Historical Context of Whitewashing
Tracing its roots back centuries, whitewashing has been a long-standing architectural practice across various cultures. Originally, this method used basic ingredients like lime and water, providing a cost-effective and durable solution for coating structures while offering practical benefits such as antibacterial properties and temperature control. Whitewashing became a symbol of cleanliness and purity, prevalent in rural and coastal areas for its reflective quality. Examples of traditional whitewashing can be seen in the “Pueblos Blancos” of Andalusia, Spain, and the Cycladic architecture of the Greek islands, known for their distinctive white surfaces. Over time, whitewashing evolved, finding its way into modern interior and exterior home design, especially in colonial and farmhouse style revivals. Today, it’s popular in the DIY community for its ability to bring understated elegance and rustic charm to spaces. The trend connects contemporary living spaces to a rich architectural tradition, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Considerations for Different Types of Brick and Climates
When planning to whitewash brick, understanding the specific type of brick and the climate in your region is crucial. Different kinds of brick respond to whitewashing in various ways, and external environmental factors can significantly impact the longevity and appearance of a whitewashed surface. Here are some key considerations:- Type of Brick:
- Porous vs. Non-Porous: Porous bricks absorb whitewash more effectively, leading to a longer-lasting finish. Non-porous bricks might resist the whitewash, making it harder to achieve a uniform look.
- New vs. Old: Older bricks tend to be more absorbent but may have impurities that could affect the finish. Newer bricks might be less absorbent, requiring a thicker whitewash mixture.
- Climate Factors:
- Humidity and Rainfall: In areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, whitewashing may deteriorate more quickly. The moisture can seep through the whitewash, potentially leading to issues like mold or a washed-out appearance.
- Temperature Extremes: In climates with severe cold or heat, the expansion and contraction of bricks might cause the whitewash to crack or flake over time.
- Maintenance Needs:
- Regular maintenance can extend the life of whitewashing, especially in harsh climates. This might include periodic reapplication of the whitewash or protective sealants to combat environmental wear and tear.
- Regional Variations:
- In coastal areas, the salty air might affect the longevity of the whitewash.
- In urban settings, pollution and other environmental contaminants can discolor or degrade the whitewash over time.
- Preparation for Different Climates:
- Dry climates: Ensure bricks are completely clean and free from dust.
- Wet climates: Consider applying a sealant to prevent excessive moisture absorption.
- Cold climates: Schedule your whitewashing project during warmer months to ensure proper curing.
- Choosing the Right Whitewash Mixture:
- The consistency and type of whitewash mixture should be chosen based on the brick type and the typical weather conditions of an area. For example, a thicker mixture might be necessary for non-porous bricks or in areas with heavy rainfall.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Embarking on a whitewashing project can be an exciting venture, but common pitfalls can turn your dream update into a less-than-desirable outcome. Being aware of these mistakes and knowing how to troubleshoot them can save time, resources, and frustration. Common Mistakes:- Inadequate Surface Preparation: Failing to properly clean the brick surface or remove old paint, dirt, and efflorescence can hinder the adhesion of the whitewash, resulting in an uneven finish or premature flaking.
- Incorrect Whitewash Consistency: Too thick can lead to a heavy, opaque finish that masks the brick texture. Too thin, and you might not achieve the level of coverage desired, necessitating multiple coats.
- Rushing the Process: Attempting to apply a second coat before the first one has dried or not allowing adequate curing time before exposing the surface to elements can lead to poor adhesion and an unsatisfactory finish.
- Ignoring Weather Conditions: Applying whitewash during extremely hot, cold, or humid conditions can affect how it dries and adheres to the brick surface.
- Overapplication: Applying too much whitewash can result in a monochromatic look, losing the nuanced, natural appearance many desire from whitewashing.
- Uneven Coverage: If the first coat dries uneven, consider applying a second coat to even out the appearance. Use a sprayer for a more uniform application or a rag to blend and create a more natural look.
- Too Much Whitewash: If the whitewash is too heavy or opaque, a damp rag or sponge can be used to remove some of it from the surface of the bricks before it fully dries, helping to expose more of the brick’s natural texture and color.
- Flaking or Peeling: This might indicate issues with surface preparation or the brick’s moisture levels. Remove any loose whitewash, address moisture issues if applicable, and reapply after ensuring a clean, dry surface.
- Color Variations: Different bricks might absorb the whitewash differently, leading to color variations. If this is unintended, consider using a tinted primer before whitewashing to create a more uniform base color.
- Long-Term Maintenance: If you notice wear or weathering over time, a gentle cleaning and spot-application of whitewash can refresh the look. For more significant degradation, a complete reapplication might be necessary.
