For brick, stucco and block on the outside of a building, use a 100% acrylic exterior paint and put down two coats. Kompozit PRO and NEO both list brick, masonry and stucco on their data sheets. PRO primes itself. NEO needs PRIME on bare masonry.
Before you paint
- Wash off dirt and loose chalk and let the wall dry.
- Scrape peeling paint.
- Fix cracks and missing mortar first. Paint doesn't fill them.
- Paint between 50 and 90°F, with no rain or snow in the forecast and no drop below 50°F for the next 48 hours.
Which paint
PRO: paint and primer in one, low VOC, anti-microbial, Flat through Semi-Gloss, white and light to accent colors. $58 a gallon, $285 for 5 gallons.
NEO: flat or satin, anti-microbial, white and light to medium colors. Prime bare masonry with PRIME first. $49 a gallon, $218 for 5 gallons.
How much to buy
Rough brick and stucco drink more paint than smooth drywall. The data sheets give 300 to 400 square feet per gallon on smooth surfaces, so order extra for a rough wall.
Warranty
Every can carries an 18-year limited warranty.
Delivery
Buckets ride on our own truck across New York and New Jersey for $15 an order, free over $150.
Shop exterior paint: PRO and NEO
Questions we get
Can I paint brick that was never painted?
Yes. Once brick is painted, going back to bare brick is hard, so decide before you start.
PRO or NEO for a brownstone front?
PRO. It primes itself and comes in more sheens.
How many coats on brick?
Two.