Mike Holmes - Should I Paint or Stain My Bricks?

According to home renovation expert Mike Holmes, staining your bricks is the way to go. Brick stain is a mineral product that soaks into the brick. It becomes part of the brick. This means the stain is not prone to chip away or peel like paint. You won’t have to worry about your color fading or having to do touch-ups all the time. 

“Look for brick stains that are non-toxic, non-VOC, water repellent, UV resistant, and mold and algae deterrent and therefore sustainable. In my books, that’s a good thing,” says Mike Holmes on his blog.

 

 

Disadvantages of Painting Your Brick According to Mike Holmes

• Paint isn’t long-lasting because it doesn’t soak into the bricks.

• Paint can block your brick’s porous surface. Remember that brick needs to dissipate moisture. 

• Acrylic or latex paints sit on the brick’s surface and form a film that traps moisture

Mike Holmes recommends using mineral-based stains that are breathable and soak into the brick.

In a job for the TV series Holmes Family Rescue on HGTV, Mike Holmes installed an elevator in a bungalow. To do so, the existing windows had to be removed and new bricks were installed in their place. Brick staining was the perfect option here because Mike simply stained the new bricks to match the old ones. The result? Perfect match.

 

About Mike Holmes:

Mike Holmes is a renowned expert in home renovation, known for his no-nonsense approach to fixing poorly done construction work. With decades of experience, he offers invaluable advice on ensuring quality and safety in renovations. Holmes has become a trusted voice for homeowners seeking reliable, professional guidance in the industry.