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Cost To Paint A Brick House?
Transform your brick home’s look while protecting its structure – that’s the power of quality exterior painting. When planning this project, expect costs to fall between $3,500 and $10,500, though final prices depend on several key factors. Your location plays a role, as labor rates vary by region. The type of finish you choose matters too – some specialized coatings cost more but offer better protection. Your home’s size naturally affects the total, as larger surfaces require more materials and labor.
Here’s what homeowners across the United States typically pay for professional brick painting:
- Normal Range: $3,500 – $10,500
- Average Cost: $7,000
- Low End: $2,000
- High End: $13,000
These numbers reflect complete professional jobs, including proper preparation, quality materials, and skilled application. The wide range allows for varying project complexities and regional price differences.
Painting Costs for a Brick House in Your Area
Geographic location significantly shapes brick painting costs across the United States. The same painting job might cost vastly different amounts depending on which state or city you call home. This variation stems from several regional factors that affect the bottom line.
Take Hawaii as an example – the cost to paint a brick home there can climb up to $13,000. Several factors drive these higher costs: the remote location means materials must be shipped in, labor costs tend to be higher, and the tropical climate requires specific paint types that can withstand intense sun and humidity.
Contrast this with Tennessee, where the same project typically tops out around $8,000. The lower cost reflects the state’s more moderate living expenses, easier access to materials, and competitive contractor market. The milder climate also means standard exterior paints often suffice, keeping material costs in check.
These regional price differences remind us why national averages only tell part of the story – your location plays a crucial role in determining your final project cost.
Breakdown of Brick House Painting Expenses
Materials Needed
Planning your brick painting supplies starts with understanding the basic coverage math. Picture this: for every 250 square feet of brick surface, you’ll need two key players – one gallon of primer and one gallon of paint. Let’s break down what this means for your wallet.
Primer sets the foundation, ranging from $7 to $15 per gallon. Think of it as preparing your canvas – it helps the paint stick better and last longer. The paint itself requires a bigger investment, typically between $30 and $70 per gallon, depending on quality and brand.
For perspective, let’s consider a 2,500-square-foot home. You’re looking at a materials budget between $370 and $850 just for the primer and paint. If you’re planning to tackle this as a DIY project, don’t forget the supporting cast – you’ll need to add about $100 for essential supplies like:
- Paint trays for easy application
- Quality brushes for detail work
- Painter’s tape for clean edges
- Drop cloths to protect surrounding areas
- Caulk for sealing gaps
Remember to think carefully about your color choices and stain preferences before purchasing. Some specialty colors and finishes command premium prices, which could shift your final cost higher within these ranges.
Labor Costs
Professional brick painting involves more than just applying paint – it’s a comprehensive service that requires skill, experience, and proper preparation. When you hire experts, expect hourly rates between $150 and $350, with the exact cost varying based on your contractor’s expertise and location.
This labor cost covers several essential steps in the painting process:
- Detailed project planning and assessment
- Thorough surface preparation
- Removal of existing paint or coatings
- Professional caulking of gaps and cracks
- Initial setup of equipment and materials
- Complete post-project cleanup
Consider that what might look like “just painting” actually involves multiple specialized phases. Each step requires professional attention to ensure your brick’s longevity and the paint job’s durability. Proper preparation by experts helps prevent future issues like peeling, bubbling, or uneven coverage.
Think of it like this: while the hourly rate might seem substantial, you’re paying for years of experience, professional-grade equipment, and the assurance that each crucial step will be handled correctly the first time.
Pressure Washing Fees
Professional pressure washing lays critical groundwork before painting brick. This service adds $35-$100 to project costs based on home size and condition.
High-powered washing strips away:
- Years of dirt buildup
- Moss growth
- Loose mortar
- Surface debris
This step ensures paint bonds properly with clean brick, improving both immediate appearance and long-term durability. Clean surfaces mean better paint adhesion, extending the finish lifespan significantly.
Cost variables include:
- Building height
- Equipment needs
- Dirt accumulation level
- Stain severity
Think of pressure washing as insurance for your paint investment. Proper surface prep prevents common paint failures and helps achieve professional-quality results.
Costs Based on Finish Options for a Brick House
Standard Paint
Whitewashing Technique
Limewashing Method
German Schmear Technique
Cost of Painting a Brick House Per Square Foot
Cost of Painting a Brick House Per Square Foot
Painting vs. Staining: Cost Comparison
DIY Painting: Is It Worth It?
Painting brick yourself saves labor costs but requires investment in materials and significant time. A medium home takes 3-4 days, larger homes up to a week, weather permitting.
Initial Expenses:
- Pressure washer: $40/day rental or $100-$380 purchase
- Paint/primer (2,500 sq ft): $370-$850
- Paint sprayer rental: $430/week
- Ladder/scaffold rental: $130-$160 each
The project demands proper surface preparation and working at heights. Consider safety requirements and your comfort level with elevated work. Weather conditions impact timeline and results.
Additional Opportunities: While equipment is on hand, consider related projects like deck painting ($2-$5 per square foot).
This DIY approach trades professional expertise for cost savings, requiring careful planning and proper safety measures.
