Historic Atlanta Homes: What to Know Before Painting Brick Exteriors

Atlanta is known for its beautiful, historic homes. Many of these homes have brick exteriors that make them stand out. The charm of these old homes is something that homeowners and visitors alike admire.

When it comes to maintaining these homes, one of the most common questions is whether to paint the brick. While painting can refresh the look of a home, it comes with risks.

This guide will help you understand what to know before painting brick on historic homes in Atlanta.

Understanding Historic Brick Homes in Atlanta

Atlanta’s neighborhoods are filled with brick homes that have been standing for over a century. These homes are a part of the city’s rich history and architectural diversity.

Many homes in areas like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and Old Fourth Ward feature unique brickwork that reflects the craftsmanship of their time.

Preserving the original brick is important. Not only does it keep the home looking authentic, but it also helps maintain the structure.

Over time, however, historic brick homes can face some common problems. Weather can wear down the brick, causing it to become stained, cracked, or covered in efflorescence (white deposits).

Repairing and restoring brick is a delicate process. Changing its appearance can sometimes cause more harm than good.

The Risks of Painting Historic Brick

Painting brick is not always a good idea, especially for historic homes. Bricks are naturally porous, meaning they allow moisture to escape. When you paint the brick, the moisture can get trapped inside.

This trapped moisture can cause the brick to deteriorate, leading to bigger problems over time. In some cases, the trapped moisture can cause mold and mildew growth.

Another issue with painting is that once it’s done, it’s hard to remove. If you later decide you don’t like the paint or it starts peeling, removing the paint can be expensive and time-consuming.

It’s also possible that the removal process can damage the brick, which is hard to fix.

Lastly, painting can hide underlying issues with the brick. If the brick is damaged or has cracks, the paint can cover these problems, making them harder to detect and repair.

Alternatives to Painting Brick

If you want to refresh the look of your historic brick exterior without painting it, there are some great alternatives to consider. One option is to clean the brick.

Regular cleaning with the right tools and products can help remove dirt, stains, and mildew, giving the brick a cleaner look without causing harm.

Another option is limewashing. Limewashing is a method of coating brick with a lime-based solution. This technique gives the brick a weathered, soft appearance while still allowing the material to breathe.

Limewashing is a breathable option, which means it won’t trap moisture inside the brick like paint does.

Staining is another option to consider. Staining allows the natural texture and beauty of the brick to shine through while adding a slightly different color.

Stains are also breathable, so they allow the brick to continue to do its job of absorbing and releasing moisture.

Lastly, you can use breathable sealants. These products help protect the brick from the elements without sealing the pores, which helps prevent moisture from getting trapped inside.

When Painting May Be Appropriate

Although painting is not recommended for most historic brick homes, there are situations where it might be appropriate.

For example, if the brick has already been painted in the past, repainting might be the best option. Repainting can restore the home’s appearance without causing the issues that painting raw, unpainted brick could cause.

In cases where the brick is in poor condition and lacks historical significance, painting may be a practical solution. However, even in these situations, it’s best to consult with a preservation expert.

They can help determine if painting is the right choice and guide you through the process.

Steps to Safely Paint Historic Brick

If you’ve decided that painting is the best option for your home, it’s important to follow the right steps to ensure the job is done properly.

1. Preparation and Cleaning: Before you start painting, make sure the brick surface is clean. Remove dirt, mildew, and any loose debris. This step is important because any dirt or grime left on the surface can affect how the paint adheres.
   
2. Choosing the Right Paint: Use a breathable, masonry-specific paint. These paints are designed to allow moisture to escape while still providing protection for the brick. Never use regular house paint, as it can trap moisture inside the brick.
   
3. Application Techniques: Apply the paint carefully, ensuring an even coat. Use a paintbrush or roller to get the paint into the pores of the brick. Avoid thick coats of paint, as they can create a layer that is too thick and prevent the brick from breathing properly.
   
4. Maintenance: Once the paint is applied, you’ll need to maintain it. Check the surface for signs of wear or damage, such as peeling or cracking. If you notice any issues, make sure to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
   

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your painted brick exteriors last longer and avoid some of the common issues that come with painting.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Before making any changes to the exterior of your historic brick home, it’s important to understand the local preservation laws and ordinances in Atlanta.

Some neighborhoods in the city have historic districts with strict rules about how homes can be altered. These rules are in place to preserve the character and historical integrity of the neighborhood.

In most cases, you’ll need a permit or approval from the local historic preservation office before you can paint your brick exterior.

Failing to follow these regulations can result in fines or the requirement to restore the home to its original condition.

Always check with your local zoning office or consult with a preservation expert before beginning any work on your historic brick home. It’s better to take the time to get the proper permits than to risk having to undo the work later.

Case Studies of Historic Brick Homes in Atlanta

Many historic homes in Atlanta have undergone successful restoration and preservation projects. For example, homes in the Inman Park neighborhood have been carefully restored to preserve their original brickwork.

In these cases, homeowners chose not to paint the brick but instead focused on cleaning, repairing, and maintaining the original material.

In some cases, limewashing or staining was used to enhance the appearance of the brick without covering it with paint. These approaches allow the natural beauty of the brick to shine through while also providing protection against the elements.

By looking at these successful case studies, homeowners can gain a better understanding of what’s possible for their own homes and learn from the experiences of others.

Expert Interviews

Consulting with experts is an important step in preserving and maintaining historic brick homes. Preservationists and architects who specialize in historic homes can offer valuable insights into the best methods for keeping your brick exterior in top condition.

For example, many experts recommend using a gentle cleaning technique with a soft brush and mild cleaning solution to remove dirt from the surface of the brick. They also stress the importance of using breathable paints and coatings to protect the brick while still allowing it to breathe.

By working with preservation experts, you can ensure that your historic brick home retains its value and charm for years to come.

Cost Implications

Preserving the original brick on a historic home can be more cost-effective in the long run than painting it. While cleaning or limewashing might have an upfront cost, these methods often require less maintenance and have fewer long-term risks.

On the other hand, painting can be more expensive initially, especially if the brick has been previously painted. Additionally, if the paint starts to peel or crack, you may face the cost of removing the paint and repairing any damage to the brick.

Before deciding whether to paint or preserve your brick, it’s important to consider the costs involved and weigh the long-term benefits of each option.

Community Impact

When it comes to historic preservation, the actions of one homeowner can affect the entire neighborhood. Preserving the original appearance of historic homes helps maintain the character of the neighborhood and keeps it looking attractive to both residents and visitors.

By following the best practices for brick preservation and painting, you can contribute to the overall beauty and value of your community.

Final Thoughts

Painting historic Atlanta brick homes risks trapping moisture and damaging original charm. Safer alternatives like cleaning, limewashing, or staining preserve integrity while refreshing appearance. If painting is necessary, use breathable masonry paint and professional application. Always consult preservation experts and local guidelines first.

Protect your home’s legacy – Contact Green Summit Contracting for expert historic brick solutions today!