How can I safely remove peeling paint from my 1900s brick home without repainting and reveal the original brick underneath?
Asked by Oğuzhan Eronat 
6 months ago
Last Updated: June 28, 2024
Hey, do you know the best way to safely remove paint from the brick on the outside of my house? It was built in 1900 and someone painted it white, but now it’s peeling in spots. I really want to get back to the original brick look.
If you try pressure washing and it doesn’t do the job, consider sandblasting or shell blasting instead.
Be careful when pressure washing brick because it has the potential to dislodge the mortar.
Have you considered soda blasting instead? High pressure sandblasting can actually harm your bricks.
Try sandblasting instead…
Older bricks might be softer than newer ones so I recommend avoiding sandblasting. It could result in the outer layer of brick being removed, causing rapid deterioration. There are products available, like peel-away, that can remove paint from brick, but they can be pricey.
Let’s take them down and turn them around.
How about giving high pressure water spray a try instead of an electrical or gas-powered one? Look for one that is 3000psi or more.
Thanks a lot, everyone! I’m feeling quite anxious about potentially causing damage to the brick. Repainting is not something I want to do, and hiring a professional seems too expensive for me at the moment.
Consider sandblasting as an option
It makes me cringe every time a designer decides to paint the brick. It traps in moisture, preventing the bricks from breathing and causing them to peel. I’ve heard of people trying thick paint strippers that you have to leave on for a while with some success, but it’s a long and painstaking process. Get ready for a marathon, not a sprint, with dental picks as your best friends.
Dry ice blasting equipment
You might want to reach out to a brick layer in the area who knows how to work on historic homes. It seems like the old mortar used in those days can complicate things. They can advise you on the most effective way to strip the paint without damaging the brick.
High-pressure water cleaning
When it comes to pressure washing, it’s important to remember that it can cause damage to both the brick and the mortar. The layer of paint might be the only thing keeping the veneer intact. Plus, the old paint could be oil-based and tightly bonded to the masonry. It’s best to choose a color and do a repaint instead.
I understand that it may not have been the solution you originally had in mind, but have you thought about adding siding over the brick instead? Not only will it improve your home’s energy efficiency, but it could also be more cost-effective than dealing with the old paint and mortar. Several century homes in my area have opted for siding and they have turned out beautifully.
I totally agree with you about painted brick. When I was house hunting this summer, I passed on many homes just because the brick was painted. It usually signaled a rushed renovation. Fortunately, yours is on the outside. Although removing it will still be messy, at least it’s outdoors. Interior painted brick, especially fireplaces, is a whole different story…UGH! Good luck with restoring the brick!