How to Paint Render or Brickwork: A DIY Guide to Professional Results

Thinking about giving your home's exterior a fresh new look? Painting rendered walls or brickwork can completely transform your property's appearance, but it's not as simple as slapping on a coat of paint. Done right, it can add years of protection and curb appeal. Done wrong, you'll be dealing with peeling paint and costly repairs sooner than you'd like.

Preparation: The Foundation of a Perfect Finish

Like any good DIY project, success starts with proper preparation. Skipping this step is like trying to build a house without foundations - it might look okay at first, but it won't last.

• Clean thoroughly - Use a pressure washer for exterior surfaces or water and mild soap for interior walls to remove dirt, dust, mold, and those white salt deposits called efflorescence
• Repair damage - Fill cracks, chips, and holes in mortar or render using acrylic caulk or masonry filler to prevent water getting behind your paint
• Remove glossy surfaces - Lightly sand with 80-120 grit sandpaper to help the paint stick properly
• Allow to dry completely - This is crucial! Wait at least 2-7 days after cleaning before painting, as trapped moisture causes bubbling and peeling

Choosing the Right Paint and Tools

Not all paints are created equal when it comes to masonry surfaces. Using the wrong type is like wearing thongs to a construction site - you'll regret it pretty quickly.

• Use 100% acrylic latex or elastomeric paints specifically designed for masonry - these flex with temperature changes
• Always use a masonry primer first - it creates a solid base and helps your topcoat last longer
• Choose rollers with thick nap (3/4" or 1") to reach into all the nooks and crannies of brick or render
• Have a masonry brush handy for detailed work around edges and into joints

Application Techniques for Professional Results

Now for the fun part - actually putting paint on the wall. Follow these tips and you'll get results that look like a pro did them.

• Work from top to bottom to avoid drips on finished areas
• Apply at least two coats for full coverage and maximum durability
• Let each coat dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions
• Test a small area first to make sure you're happy with the colour and finish

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes so you don't have to make them yourself. These are the most common pitfalls that DIYers encounter.

• Painting over damp surfaces - this traps moisture and causes peeling
• Using the wrong type of paint - general-purpose paints just don't cut it on masonry
• Painting in bad weather - avoid rain, high humidity, or extreme heat
• Forgetting to protect surrounding areas - cover plants and tape windows

Final Takeaway

Painting rendered or brick surfaces is definitely a DIY-friendly project if you follow the right steps. The key is taking your time with preparation, using the correct materials, and applying the paint properly. With good preparation and quality masonry paint, your freshly painted exterior should last for years, protecting your home while giving it that fresh, updated look you're after.