Have you ever looked at a beautiful, exposed brick wall inside your home and wondered if painting it would be a good idea? Brick adds so much texture and character, but sometimes it feels too dark or just doesn’t match your style. Painting interior brick can completely transform a room, making it feel brighter and more modern. However, choosing the right paint is tricky. You worry about moisture getting trapped, the paint peeling off later, or simply ending up with a finish that looks flat and dull.
Picking the perfect paint for brick means understanding a few key things about the material itself. We know you want a durable finish that lets the brick breathe, looking great for years to come. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best paint types, essential preparation steps, and expert tips to ensure your project is a success.
Keep reading to discover exactly which paints work best on interior brick, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to achieve that professional, long-lasting look you’ve always wanted. Let’s dive into transforming those textured walls!
Top Paint For Interior Brick Walls Recommendations
- This premium, interior/exterior paint is formulated to waterproof and seal porous concrete and masonry surfaces both inside and outside your home.
- Using nanotechnology, this paint forms a barrier to help stop water infiltration while an alkali resistant coating provides a long-lasting, durable and decorative finish.
- Apply this paint on properly prepped and cured above and below grade basement walls, masonry walls, retaining walls, cinder and concrete blocks, stucco and brick. Do not use on floors or on walls with active water leaks. Apply using a high quality 1/2"-3/4" nap roller, 4" nylon/polyester brush or an airless sprayer capable of delivering 2200-3200 PSI or greater using a .023"-.025" spray tip.
- Prime all uncoated, patched, chalky, and adjacent wood and/or metal surfaces with KILZ Premium Primer. For below grade application, fill all holes/cracks with hydraulic cement prior to painting. A minimum of two coats of this product are required for optimal results. Paint dries to touch in one hour and can be re-coated in 4 hours depending on humidity.
- This is a 1-gallon can of Interior/Exterior Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint, White, 1-gallon in white. Depending on surface porosity, 1 gallon covers 75 to 125 square feet per.
- Self-Priming formula - requires no sanding
- Mold & Mildew-Proof paint film - guaranteed for 5 years
- Resists dirt and moisture on film coating
- Finish is washable and scrubbable with soap and water
- Product contains a mildewcide to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film only
- This high-quality, acrylic latex water-base interior/exterior paint offers excellent hiding properties with great adhesion and water repellency on textured interior and exterior surfaces
- This self-priming paint offers a finish on properly prepared smooth, rough and textured masonry, drywall, stucco, and brick surfaces
- It is alkali-resistant up to ph 12.0, easy to apply, and cleans up with soap and water. This paint can be rolled, Brushed, or sprayed on
- This formula is designed to accentuate all textured surfaces while achieving a natural look
- This is a 1-Gallon can of KILZ interior/exterior concrete, brick, and tile paint with a flat finish. Covers 250-400 square feet per gallon depending on surface texture
- Multifunctional White Paint Set：Without the need for tedious polishing and priming steps, Brick Paint can be applied directly to a wide range of surfaces such as concrete, brick, wood, etc., and is universal for both indoor and outdoor use. It has excellent sun and waterproofing properties and can withstand harsh weather for a long time after drying. NOTE: For outdoor use, please choose a sunny time to work, avoid rainy days operation (undried paint may dissolve in contact with water, but completely dry will have waterproof properties)
- Safe, Low-Odor Water-Based Formula：Crafted with advanced eco-friendly emulsions, our paint drastically reduces VOCs. Enjoy hassle-free application with minimal odor, perfect for enclosed spaces and family-friendly projects
- Effortless Customization & Coverage Control：Mix with water to adjust opacity: 1:1 ratio for light veiling or 1:2 ratio for bold, textured finishes. With cloth for seamless layering—create authentic brick patterns or modern ombré effects with ease
- Complete kit Included：Unbox everything you need: mixing sticks, premium brushes, and protective masking films. Our streamlined kit ensures smooth, mistake-free application for pros and beginners alike
- Maximized Coverage for Large Projects：White 16oz kit: Covers up to 100 sq.ft. (when mixed with water)；White 32oz kit: Covers up to 200 sq.ft. (when mixed with water)
- This high-quality, acrylic latex water-base interior/exterior paint offers excellent hiding properties with great adhesion and water repellency on textured interior and exterior surfaces
- This self-priming paint offers a finish on properly prepared smooth, rough and textured masonry, drywall, stucco, and brick surfaces
- It is alkali-resistant up to ph 12.0, easy to apply, and cleans up with soap and water. This paint can be rolled, Brushed, or sprayed on
- This formula is designed to accentuate all textured surfaces while achieving a natural look
- This is a 1-Gallon can of KILZ interior/exterior concrete, brick, and tile paint with a flat finish. Covers 250-400 square feet per gallon depending on surface texture
- This paint must be diluted at at least a 1:2 ratio with water to achieve full coverage. See images for more details.
- Water-Based Acrylic Paint. Safe, Low on Odor, and VOCs
- Covers 100 Sq. Ft. of Brick Surface
- Transforms in Five Hours
- Top-Selling Waterproof Concrete Paint Outdoor:Our waterproof concrete paint outdoor delivers strong adhesion to concrete surfaces—resists peeling, cracking, and moisture damage even in harsh outdoor weather, with ACOS-leading performance for outdoor projects.
- Rich Black, Grey & White Concrete Paint:Available in high-demand black concrete paint, grey concrete paint, and white concrete paint: black hides imperfections on brick/concrete, grey fits modern styles, white brightens exteriors—all with long-lasting color.
- Durable Brick Paint for Exterior Use:As a top-rated brick paint, it adheres seamlessly to rough brick textures, forming a tight coating that resists fading from sun/rain. Perfect for refreshing brick facades, with consistent orders from brick-renovation users.
- Reliable Paint for Stone & Masonry:Beyond concrete/brick, this versatile paint for stone works on porous stone surfaces (patios, garden walls) — covers up to 11㎡/L, with low CPC and steady pull for stone-exterior homeowners.
- Easy Application, No Primer Needed:Applies smoothly with brush/roller, touch-dries in 2-3 hours, and requires no primer. Low odor, eco-friendly formula—ideal for DIYers and professionals.
- Multifunctional White Paint Set：Without the need for tedious polishing and priming steps, Brick Paint can be applied directly to a wide range of surfaces such as concrete, brick, wood, etc., and is universal for both indoor and outdoor use. It has excellent sun and waterproofing properties and can withstand harsh weather for a long time after drying. NOTE: For outdoor use, please choose a sunny time to work, avoid rainy days operation (undried paint may dissolve in contact with water, but completely dry will have waterproof properties)
- Safe, Low-Odor Water-Based Formula：Crafted with advanced eco-friendly emulsions, our paint drastically reduces VOCs. Enjoy hassle-free application with minimal odor, perfect for enclosed spaces and family-friendly projects
- Effortless Customization & Coverage Control：Mix with water to adjust opacity: 1:1 ratio for light veiling or 1:2 ratio for bold, textured finishes. With cloth for seamless layering—create authentic brick patterns or modern ombré effects with ease
- Complete kit Included：Unbox everything you need: mixing sticks, premium brushes, and protective masking films. Our streamlined kit ensures smooth, mistake-free application for pros and beginners alike
- Maximized Coverage for Large Projects：16oz kit: Covers up to 100 sq.ft. (when mixed with water)；32oz kit: Covers up to 200 sq.ft. (when mixed with water)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Painting Your Interior Brick Walls
Painting interior brick walls can completely change the look of a room. It makes the space feel fresh and modern. Choosing the right paint is very important for a good, lasting finish. This guide will help you pick the best paint for your brick project.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for brick paint, look for a few important things. These features make the job easier and the result better.
- **Breathability:** Brick is naturally porous, meaning it lets air and moisture pass through. You need a paint that also breathes. If the paint traps moisture inside the brick, it can bubble up or peel off later. Look for paints labeled as “breathable” or “vapor permeable.”
- **Adhesion (Sticking Power):** Brick surfaces can be rough or dusty. The paint must stick well. Good adhesion prevents flaking.
- **Coverage:** Brick has deep textures. You want a thick paint that covers the dark color of the brick in fewer coats. High-solids or specialized masonry paints offer better coverage.
- **Durability/Washability:** Interior walls get touched. Choose paint that resists scuffs and can be wiped clean without the color coming off.
Important Materials and Types of Paint
Not all paints work well on brick. You must choose the correct base material.
1. Latex (Water-Based) Paints
Most modern interior paints are latex. They clean up easily with water. For brick, use high-quality **100% acrylic latex**. Acrylic latex paints stick better to masonry surfaces than standard vinyl latex paints. They are usually the best choice because they are breathable and flexible.
2. Oil-Based (Alkyd) Paints
Oil-based paints offer a very hard, durable shell. However, they are **less recommended** for interior brick today. They often trap moisture, leading to peeling. They also have strong fumes and take a long time to dry.
3. Specialty Masonry/Limewash Paints
These are the best option for very old or very rustic brick. Limewash or mineral paints chemically bond with the brick surface. They offer the most breathability, which is crucial for historic homes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Paint Quality
The quality of your final paint job depends on what you choose and how you prepare.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- **Primer Choice:** Using a dedicated masonry primer is essential. Primer seals the surface, so the topcoat doesn’t soak in unevenly. A good primer ensures the color looks the same everywhere.
- **Higher Solids Content:** Higher quality paints usually have more actual pigment and binder (solids) and less water. More solids mean better coverage and a stronger film on the wall.
- **Finish Sheen:** A flat or matte finish hides surface imperfections better than a glossy finish. Glossy finishes show every bump and texture of the brick.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- **Using Interior Wall Paint Only:** Standard drywall paint lacks the toughness and breathability needed for masonry. It will likely fail quickly on brick.
- **Skipping Preparation:** If you paint over loose dust, dirt, or old, flaking paint, the new paint will stick to the dirt instead of the brick. This guarantees peeling later.
- **Painting Damp Brick:** Moisture is the enemy of paint adhesion. Ensure the brick is completely dry before you start painting.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where the brick is located. This affects your paint choice.
For a **living room accent wall**, you might choose a durable, mid-sheen acrylic latex. This balances easy cleaning with a nice look.
If you are painting a **fireplace surround**, heat resistance might be a factor (check the paint can). You need a paint that can handle some temperature changes without yellowing.
If your brick is **in a damp basement**, breathability becomes the absolute top priority. Always choose a high-quality, vapor-permeable primer and topcoat to stop mold or moisture issues from starting.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Interior Brick Paint
Q: Do I have to prime interior brick before painting?
A: Yes, you absolutely should prime it. Primer helps the paint stick properly and stops the porous brick from sucking up all the topcoat paint unevenly.
Q: Can I use regular wall paint on my brick?
A: It is not recommended. Regular wall paint doesn’t breathe well enough for masonry. Use paint specifically designed for masonry or 100% acrylic latex.
Q: What is the best finish (sheen) for painted brick?
A: A matte or flat finish is usually best. It hides the rough texture of the brick better than semi-gloss or glossy paints.
Q: How do I clean the brick before painting?
A: Scrub the brick with a mild detergent (like TSP substitute) and water. Rinse thoroughly. Let the brick dry completely, which might take several days.
Q: Should I use an oil-based or water-based paint?
A: Water-based (acrylic latex) is usually better for interiors because it breathes and has fewer strong fumes. Oil-based paints can trap moisture.
Q: Can I paint over existing painted brick?
A: Yes, if the old paint is clean and firmly attached. If it is peeling, you must scrape the loose paint off first, then prime the bare spots before painting the whole wall.
Q: Does painting brick make the room feel colder?
A: Paint does not significantly change how warm or cool the wall feels. Brick itself holds temperature well, keeping the room cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Q: How many coats of paint will I need?
A: Most brick requires two coats of good quality paint for solid coverage. If you are covering a very dark color with a very light one, you might need three.
Q: Is limewash better than regular latex paint for brick?
A: Limewash is excellent for historic or very porous brick because it allows maximum breathability. Latex is easier to apply and offers more color choices for modern homes.
Q: How long does the paint smell last after painting?
A: Water-based latex paints usually have a low odor that fades within a day or two once dry. Oil-based paints can smell strong for much longer.