Is Painted Brick Outdated? What To Know About The Trend You're About To See More Of

If there's one thing you can count on in the world of design, it's that some trends — as outdated as they may prove to be — are bound to come back in style eventually. And when it comes to your home's exterior, certain paint color trends can give your dated home a modern revival. Right now, there's a certain exterior design detail that's having a major resurgence: painted brick. But, will giving your exterior a colorful upgrade become a timeless addition or prove to be another trendy design that just won't last? Based on the personalization and growing interest in freshly updated homes, jumping in could be a good idea. 

Painted brick is one of those design trends that come in and out of style. The most recent surge in popularity was in the mid-2010s with the emergence of modern farmhouse decor. You might've seen contrasting shades like black and white (similar to those light and airy exteriors, à la Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines) adorning many contemporary-style homes, as design preferences shifted toward sleek exteriors. Today, many younger homeowners want their homes to stand out, making painted brick a perfect choice since it enhances curb appeal.

Still deciding whether you should hop on the painted brick trend? Painting your home's exterior brick can have aesthetic benefits because it gives it a fresh, modern update. In turn, this transformation may boost your home's value and appeal to potential buyers in the future. And since your exterior can say a lot about your unique style, painting your brick is an opportunity to express yourself through color and moods. Plus, paint can also double as a protective layer that shields the bricks from harsh elements like rain, moisture, and scorching sunlight.

On the other hand, going over brick with paint comes with its own drawbacks as well. An important thing to note is that if you change your mind later on — whether going back to its natural state or switching colors — removing the paint can be costly, if not impossible, and may never look like its old self again. That said, be certain with the shade you choose and know that trends can change, so lean on timeless colors rather than trendy ones. For example, you may not see many bricks painted with earthy hues, which once dominated exteriors in the 1970s, today. According to 2025 trends, moody tones and bright neutrals are favorable, so consider these when choosing your perfect shade. And finally, proper paint is essential, as trapped moisture underneath can cause costly and unsightly damage over time.