What Color To Paint Brick House A Comprehensive Guide

What Color to Paint a Brick House: A Comprehensive Guide

Red brick homes exude classic charm and enduring style. But what if you want to update the exterior of your brick house? Painting it provides a refreshing makeover while preserving its architectural character. Choosing the right color, however, can be daunting given the vast array of options. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect color scheme for your brick home:

1. Consider the Brick's Color and Texture

The original color and texture of the brick should heavily influence your paint choices. Red bricks, for instance, complement warm colors like beige, cream, and gold. Tan or gray bricks pair well with cooler hues such as blue, green, or purple. Note the brick's texture as well; rougher bricks may require a more textured paint to complement their ruggedness, while smooth bricks can handle a wider range of finishes.

2. Explore Historical and Regional Styles

The historical and regional style of your home can provide inspiration for color selection. For Victorian-era homes, opt for deep, saturated hues like emerald green, burgundy, or navy. Craftsman-style houses often feature earthy tones like olive green or brown. Colonial-style homes typically have white or light gray brick painted with shutters in shades of black, navy, or hunter green.

3. Complement Your Surroundings

Consider the surrounding landscape and architectural features when choosing a paint color. If your home is nestled amidst lush greenery, a muted green or sage paint color can create a harmonious connection. If your house has stone or metal accents, opt for complementary hues that enhance their presence. For instance, gray paint with beige or cream trim can beautifully offset stonework.

4. Experiment with Neutral Colors

Neutral colors are a classic and versatile choice for brick houses. White, beige, cream, and gray provide a neutral backdrop that allows the brickwork to take center stage. They also pair well with a variety of accent colors, such as shutters, front doors, and landscaping. Neutral hues are particularly suitable for homes with intricate brick patterns or unique architectural features.

5. Embrace Bold Hues

If you're looking for a more dramatic makeover, consider bold, saturated colors like blue, green, or purple. These hues create a striking contrast with the brickwork, making your home stand out in the neighborhood. Bold colors are ideal for homes with simpler brick patterns or less prominent architectural details. Avoid using too many bold colors together, as they can overwhelm the exterior.

6. Add Accent Colors

Accent colors can enhance the overall aesthetics of your painted brick house. Paint the front door, shutters, or window trim in a contrasting color to add a touch of personality and visual interest. Use accent colors sparingly, as too many can create a cluttered or disjointed look. Consider using complementary or analogous colors for a harmonious effect.

7. Test and Adjust

Before committing to a final color scheme, it's essential to test paint samples on a small section of the brick. This will give you a real-life impression of how the color looks in different lighting conditions. Adjust the paint's hue or saturation as necessary to achieve the desired outcome. Remember, the color may appear different on large surfaces compared to a small sample.

Conclusion

Painting your brick house can transform its exterior appearance while preserving its architectural integrity. By considering the brick's color, texture, and surroundings, you can choose a paint color that complements your style and enhances the beauty of your home. Whether you opt for neutral hues, bold colors, or subtle accents, a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your brick house, making it a standout in the neighborhood.