Brick has had quite the reinvention over the years. It’s one of the oldest known building materials, dating all the way back to 7,000 BC. It can be stacked high and paired with pillars for a stately look, or, paired with metal and wrought iron, it can be the perfect backdrop to a cozy cottage straight out of a fairytale. It can be warm or industrial and with a coat of paint, modern and chic. While this trend can really freshen up a space, therein lies the question: Is painting brick worth it, especially if the trend eventually fades into obscurity? Weigh the pros and cons of painting brick and decide for yourself.

The Case for Paint

Starting with the rebels of the home decor world: the pro-paint camp. Many a fearless soul argues that painting brick can work wonders, breathing new life into tired facades and interiors. And you know what? They might just have a point.

Older homes, particularly those built in the 70s have a distinctive aesthetic, complete with avocado green appliances and, yup, brown brick. Before you resign yourself to a lifetime of retro-chic, consider the power of a fresh coat of paint. With the right hue, you can take your home from “groovy” to “gorgeous” in no time flat. But wait — painting brick isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about protection. Brick is also very porous, and by painting it, you can protect its surface from UV rays, or if outdoors, other elements like rain, wind and snow.

The Case Against Paint

On the other end, there are the purists — the staunch defenders of natural brick in all its untouched, rugged beauty. If you fall in this category, painting brick is akin to slapping a mustache on the Mona Lisa. Sacrilege, you say? They certainly think so. Natural brick, they argue, has a timeless appeal that will always rise above trends and fads. It’s like the little black dress of home decor —classic, elegant, and always in style. Plus, why cover up that rich texture and character with a layer of paint?

There’s also the potential maintenance nightmare that can accompany painted brick. Chips, cracks, peeling — oh my! Once you commit to painting, you’re in it for the long haul. Touch-ups become your new best friend, and don’t even get us started on trying to strip that paint if you have a change of heart. It’s messy, painful and best avoided if possible.

The Verdict

So, what to do? It’s a delicate dance between personal preference, practicality, and a dash of design savvy. Before you break out the rollers and drop cloths, take a moment to consider a few key factors.

Architectural Style

Is your home a sleek, modern masterpiece or a cozy cottage straight out of a fairytale? The architectural style of your home can play a big role in determining whether painted brick is a good fit. While modern homes often embrace the clean lines of painted brick, traditional homes may fare better with natural brick to maintain their historic charm.

Maintenance

Are you prepared to commit to the upkeep that comes with painted brick? Touch-ups and repairs are par for the course, so make sure you’re ready to roll up your sleeves (and maybe invest in some elbow pads).

Neighborhood Aesthetics

Take a stroll around your neighborhood and scope out the scene. Is painted brick the norm, or are you likely to stick out like a sore thumb? And, if so, do you care?

Resale Value

It doesn’t hurt to think about the future. And with this chance, you might want to ask: Will painting brick boost or bust your home’s resale value? While opinions vary, it’s generally agreed that well-executed paint jobs can increase curb appeal and attract potential buyers. Just be sure to choose a color that won’t send them running for the hills.