The Budget-Friendly Solution For Updating Exterior Brick Without Painting It White

Brick homes can be beautiful and stately, but the wrong shade of brick can leave a house looking dingy or dated. Replacing brick is very expensive and while painting it is more affordable, it can take away the character of the brick. Additionally, painting your home's brick exterior could hurt its resale value. The good news is, there is an alternative. Whether you're looking to brighten your red brick exterior or hide an ugly hue, using a brick stain is a relatively affordable way to refresh your home's exterior while preserving its charm.

Brick stain is a type of colorant that seeps into the pores of the brick to transform the color. Stains come in a wide variety of shades from whites and grays to browns and earth tones. Because the stain penetrates the brick — rather than sitting on the surface like paint — it allows the brick to retain its original texture, keeping its character intact. An advantage of brick stain is that it typically lasts a long time before needing another application. However, the drawback of its longevity is that if you decide you no longer like the color, it can be difficult to undo.

Applying brick stain is fairly simple, though it is labor intensive. Before beginning, prepare the work area, making sure the bricks are free of any dirt or residue using a DIY solution for cleaning exterior brick. The mortar should also be in good shape. If there are areas where it has deteriorated, you may need to do some repairs before you begin. It's also important to cover up any landscaping in the area to prevent any stain splatters from ruining shrubs or causing damage to walkways or patios.   

To apply the stain, first mix it thoroughly in case any pigment has settled to the bottom.  Using a standard paint brush, dip it into the stain and drain off any excess. Paint each brick individually in long strokes, avoiding the mortar joints. Make sure you have paper towels nearby to quickly dry any drips. If you're looking to get the project done faster and don't mind the mortar joints getting stained, you could opt to use a roller or paint sprayer, but this method will produce a different look. 

Compared to replacing your brick, staining is a cost-effective option — particularly if you're planning to DIY the project. A gallon of stain costs about $180. The only other supplies you'll need are a regular paint brush, some paper towels to wipe up drips, and plastic sheeting to protect the surrounding area. If you do plan to hire a professional, be aware that it will substantially increase your cost — possibly by as much as 50%.