Changing the color of brick on a home or building can significantly update its appearance. However, it’s not as simple as just painting over existing brick. To properly change the color of brick requires special preparation and materials to achieve an attractive, long-lasting result. So how much does it really cost to change the color of brick? There are several factors that impact the cost.
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Cost Factors
Some of the key factors that influence the cost of changing brick color include:
Size of the Area
The total square footage of brick that needs to be covered is a major cost determinant. More brick equals higher material costs. For a typical 2-story, 2500 square foot suburban home, there may be 500-800 square feet of brick on the exterior that requires color change. For large commercial buildings, this amount can be dramatically more.
Accessibility
The ease of access to the brick also affects cost. A single story ranch style home is much simpler to access than a 3-story historic home. Scaffolding or lifts may be required to safely reach brick on upper levels of tall buildings, adding expense.
Brick Condition
The current state of the brick is important. Brick that is cracked, crumbling or uneven will require extra preparation to create an appropriate surface for color change. This adds labor and material costs.
Desired Final Color
Light colors over existing dark brick will require more coating to fully opaque the original color. Deeper colors like reds or browns may provide more coverage over lighter brick. More paint equals higher cost.
Paint or Stain
Using a stain on brick is faster and easier than paint, although paint provides a more opaque, seamless color change. Stain costs less overall compared to paint.
Primer Used
Quality primer improves adhesion and durability of new paint color. Primers made specifically for masonry application may cost more but are recommended.
Number of Coats
Multiple coats of paint or stain boost the vibrancy and longevity of the color change. But each coat adds labor and material costs. 2-3 coats are usually needed.
Sealant Used
Applying a clear sealer or glaze as a topcoat protects the finish and prevents fading or damage. These specialty products improve longevity at an added cost.
Professional vs. DIY
Hiring a qualified professional painter that specializes in masonry will guarantee proper preparation, application and cleanup. But it costs more than a DIY budget job.
Cost by Project Scope
Now that the key cost factors have been reviewed, what is the typical total cost range for changing brick color based on project scope?
Small DIY Project
For a small DIY project like changing the brick color on a fireplace, the total costs may range from:
– Materials – $50 to $150 (primer, paint/stain, sealer, brushes, rollers, etc.)
– Labor – Free if you do it yourself
So the total cost could be $50 to $150.
Medium Home Project
For a medium sized project like painting 500 sq ft of brick on a 2-story home, professional estimates range from:
– Materials – $350 to $750
– Labor – $1000 to $2000 (for surface prep, application of primer, paint, and sealer)
So the total cost could be $1350 to $2750.
Large Commercial Project
For painting a large commercial building with 10000 sq ft of brick exterior, the costs may be:
– Materials – $5000 to $7500
– Labor – $15000 to $30000
The total cost could be $20000 to $37500.
Cost to Change Brick Color by City
Geographic location is another factor determining the cost to change brick color. Here are estimates for average costs for a mid-sized 2500 sq ft home in selected cities:
| City | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| New York, NY | $2500 – $4000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $2000 – $3500 |
| Chicago, IL | $1500 – $3000 |
| Houston, TX | $1200 – $2500 |
| Philadelphia, PA | $1800 – $3200 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $1400 – $2750 |
| San Antonio, TX | $1100 – $2300 |
| San Diego, CA | $2100 – $3600 |
| Dallas, TX | $1350 – $2800 |
| San Jose, CA | $2200 – $3900 |
| Jacksonville, FL | $1500 – $2500 |
| Indianapolis, IN | $1200 – $2200 |
| Austin, TX | $1300 – $2600 |
| Columbus, OH | $1100 – $2000 |
As shown, the cost to change brick color in major metropolitan areas like New York City and Los Angeles will be at the higher end, while mid-sized Midwest and Southern cities have lower average costs.
Steps to Change Brick Color
If you decide to move forward with changing your brick color, here is an overview of the key steps involved:
Select New Color
Choose your desired shade – this will impact the coatings needed and overall cost. Neutral and earth tone shades of gray, brown, taupe are popular.
Clean Brick Surface
Power wash the brick to remove dirt, mildew and loose debris. Allow several days to fully dry.
Repair Damaged Brick
Inspect closely and repair any cracked or missing brick and re-point mortar gaps as needed.
Apply Masonry Primer
Use a high quality primer designed specifically for masonry and brickwork. Allow to dry overnight.
Apply Paint or Stain
Using rollers or sprayer, apply 2-3 coats of exterior masonry paint or stain, allowing proper dry time between coats.
Seal with Clear Topcoat (optional)
For added protection, apply a clear sealer or glaze following the paint or stain application.
Clean up and Dispose
Once the project is complete, properly clean brushes and tools. Dispose of empty paint cans according to local regulations.
Hiring a Professional vs. DIY
While a DIY approach is possible for small projects, hiring professional painters that specialize in masonry is recommended for best results with larger homes and buildings.
Benefits of hiring pros include:
- Access to equipment needed for upper levels
- Knowledge of proper preparation and application
- Efficiency in completing large-scale projects
- Consistent, high-quality color change
- Warranties on workmanship
Even with the higher labor costs, professionals complete the job correctly and quickly, often saving money in the long run. They also handle the burden of cleanup.
DIY projects can work for small areas of easily accessible brick if proper precautions are taken. But for total home exteriors, pros are your best bet.
Choosing Paint Colors for Brick
The specific paint or stain color you select for your brick project will impact the total cost as well as the appearance. Light and bright colors often require more coating to fully cover the brick. Darker, more saturated shades may provide more coverage in fewer coats.
Here are some of the most popular color choices for painted brick homes and buildings:
White
A crisp white paint creates a clean, beachy look. Multiple coats are needed to opaque the brick. White shows dirt easily.
Gray
From light pewter to charcoal shades, gray seamlessly complements both modern and traditional homes.
Black
Deeper black adds drama and sophistication. It contrasts beautifully with white trim.
This versatile hue ranges from light powder blue to rich navy. It pairs nicely with white or yellow trim.
Forest Green
Deep green evokes natural, woodsy feels. It stands out against red brick especially.
Red
Reds from brick red to burgundy integrate nicely on existing brick. Stain allows hint of original brick to show through.
Brown
Earthy browns from tan to chocolate provide a natural clay look. Great alternative to red brick.
Yellow
Warm golden yellows or sunflower bright shades create cheerful curb appeal.
Maintenance for Painted Brick
Proper maintenance is required to keep your painted brick looking fresh long-term. Follow these tips:
- Allow paint or stain to fully cure for 30 days before cleaning
- Use mild soap and water to gently clean, avoid abrasive chemicals
- Inspect annually for any worn or damaged paint
- Plan to re-coat painted brick every 7-10 years
- Repair any new cracks or damage immediately
- Re-apply protective sealer if water is not beading on surface
With proper prep and application, new paint or stain on brick can last 7-15 years before needing refresh. Ongoing maintenance will extend the life and keep your updated color looking great.
Conclusion
Changing the color of brick on your home or building can revive its appearance, but does come at a cost. For a typical whole home project, expect to invest $1500 to $4000 depending on size, location, and application methods. While DIY is possible for small areas, hiring professional painters that specialize in masonry is recommended for best, long-lasting results, especially for larger homes and commercial projects. With some planning and budgeting, a fresh painted or stained brick exterior can significantly enhance your property’s style.