How to Update the Exterior of a Brick Ranch

Renovating an old brick exterior gives a house a fresh, new look.

There are many options for updating the outer facade of a brick home. One of the most overlooked methods is a thorough scrubbing, because clean bricks can look like new bricks. A coat of paint also can renew a brick exterior. A new process in the remodeling world is brick staining. This takes more time and requires practice to achieve an even and natural look.

Things You'll Need

• Pressure washer
• Stiff bristled brush
• White vinegar
• Latex paints
• Paint brush
• Paint gun
• Paint tray
• Glaze
• Stipple brush

Instructions

Cleaning Bricks

1. 

   Scrub bricks with a stiff, bristled brush to clean and restore them.

   Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris and old paint from the bricks. Start at the top of the wall and work downward. Painted bricks may take several passes with the pressure washer to remove all the old paint.

2. Mix three quarts of white vinegar with one quart of water. Scrub the bricks with a stiff, bristled brush and the vinegar cleaning solution.

3. Rinse the bricks with clean water. Allow the bricks to dry.

Painting Bricks

1. 

   Painting a brick home is an easy way to update the exterior.

   Clean the bricks and be sure the bricks are completely dry.

2. Use a paint gun to apply the latex paint to the bricks. Apply several coats to ensure complete coverage.

3. Apply the same color latex paint or a contrasting color to the cement mortar between the bricks.

Staining Bricks

1. 

   Give bricks a facelift using a round stippling brush and latex stain.

   Clean the brick surface and allow the bricks to dry completely.

2. Pour a small amount of latex paint into a paint tray. Add glaze until the desired stain color is achieved. Mix several slightly varying shades of the desired color for layering.

3. Use the stipple brush and begin applying the stain. Dab the stain onto the brick with a bouncing motion. Apply several of the varying shades to attain a more natural look.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the staining technique on a brick that is not attached to the home before attempting to stain the home's bricks.

• Wear safety glasses when using the pressure washer.

References

• Bob Villa: Updating Interior Brick and Stone