---

Older, Softer Brick Needs Different Handling

Locally-fired brick from Powell’s early manufacturing era wasn’t cured at the same temperatures modern brick is, so it absorbs more water and breathes differently through the wall assembly. Sealing that kind of brick with the wrong product traps moisture behind the paint film instead of letting it escape, which shows up later as spalling — the face of the brick flaking or popping off. Before we paint any older Powell brick home, we check the brick and mortar condition and use a breathable, mineral-based or elastomeric masonry coating rather than a standard latex, specifically because of this.

When We’d Advise Against Painting Brick

Painting brick is close to a one-way decision — once it’s coated, going back to bare brick is a much bigger job than the original paint job was. We’ll say so plainly rather than just taking the work. We’d steer a homeowner away from painting when:

• The brick already shows active spalling or crumbling mortar — that needs masonry repair first, not paint over it
• There’s visible efflorescence (the white mineral haze) that hasn’t been addressed — it means moisture is still moving through the wall
• The brick is in good original condition and the goal is mainly a color change — a limewash or mineral stain is often a better-looking, more reversible option than solid paint
• The home may go on the market soon — some buyers specifically look for unpainted original brick in Powell’s older neighborhoods

---

---

Schedule a Free Estimate

Fill out the form below or call/text 865-606-6999 and we’ll take a look at your home’s brick.