Standing on your front steps, staring at that tired red brick façade and wondering whether to paint, update, or leave it classic? You’re not alone. Many homeowners wrestle with how to modernize a red brick home without losing its character. Whether you’re tackling a weekend DIY or planning a full exterior refresh, these ideas for red brick house exteriors will help you pick a direction and take practical steps forward.
Why Red Brick Deserves a Second Look
Red brick is durable, low-maintenance, and full of charm—but it can also look dated if the mortar is crumbling, landscaping is neglected, or color contrast is lacking. The good news: small design changes deliver big impact. From modern black trim to whitewashing and updated landscaping, you can transform curb appeal without expensive reconstruction.
10 Practical Ideas for Red Brick House Makeovers
1. Clean, Repair, and Repoint for Instant Improvement
Before you change the color or add accents, give the brick a fresh start:
- Pressure-wash gently (use a fan tip and moderate pressure) to remove grime and mildew.
- Repoint mortar where it’s deteriorating—this stops water damage and lifts the overall look.
- Seal the brick with a breathable masonry sealer to protect against stains and freeze-thaw cycles.
Tools/tips: masonry brush, mortar mix, tuckpointing tool, garden hose or consumer-grade pressure washer, breathable sealer. If the mortar damage is severe, hire a mason.
2. Paint or Whitewash for a Modern Look
Painting brick is permanent, but whitewashing or limewashing gives a softer, reversible effect:
- Test a small section for adhesion and look.
- Clean and allow to dry completely.
- Apply a diluted paint wash (1 part latex paint to 3 parts water) or limewash following manufacturer instructions.
- Seal if you want longer-lasting color (note: sealing can be harder to reverse).
Long-tail keyword: how to modernize red brick home with paint or whitewash.
3. Add Contrasting Trim and Shutters
One of the simplest ideas for red brick house curb appeal is to add high-contrast trim. Black or deep charcoal trim around windows and doors creates crisp lines and a contemporary vibe. Consider shutters or painted window frames to frame the brick and add depth.
4. Update the Front Door and Hardware
A bold front door color — teal, navy, or classic red — paired with new hardware and house numbers dramatically changes the first impression. Replace old light fixtures with modern sconces for added impact.
5. Create Visual Interest with Accent Siding
Instead of covering the whole house, add vertical or horizontal siding in strategic areas (porch, gable, or dormer). Cedar shingles, board-and-batten, or fiber-cement planks blend well with brick and add texture.
6. Landscape for Contrast and Softening
Soft landscaping breaks up large expanses of brick. Use:
- Low hedges and ornamental grasses along the foundation
- Window boxes with seasonal color
- Pathway lighting and a defined walkway to guide the eye
7. Porch and Railing Upgrades
Refinish or replace porch railings and columns. Painted wood or tapered columns lend a craftsman feel, while metal railings make for a modern update. For small porches, adding a bench or planters instantly creates a welcoming entrance.
8. Add Architectural Lighting
Up-lighting on a brick façade accentuates texture at night. Use energy-efficient LED fixtures to highlight entryways and focal points without overwhelming the brick’s natural character.
9. Partial Masonry Accent Walls
If you like the brick but want variety, consider keeping the lower half brick and using siding or stucco above for a two-tone effect. This approach works well for facades with tall front elevations.
10. Create a Cozy Outdoor Space
Add a small patio or seating area near the brick wall to showcase it as a backdrop. Climbing vines or a trellis can soften the brick and add a cottage feel.
Step-by-Step DIY: Painting or Whitewashing Brick
If you choose paint or whitewash, follow these steps to reduce mistakes:
- Inspect brick and mortar; repair any damage.
- Clean the surface with trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a masonry cleaner; rinse thoroughly.
- Allow 48 hours to dry depending on weather.
- Apply primer made for masonry if painting solid color; for whitewash mix paint with water for wash effect.
- Work in small sections with a masonry brush, then back-brush to get paint into pores.
- Apply a second coat only if needed. Let cure fully before sealing (if sealing).
Pro tip: Do a weather check—avoid painting when rain or freezing temperatures are expected within 48–72 hours.
Budget Considerations and Real-World Advice
Costs vary widely: cleaning and repointing are moderate investments; painting or adding siding is mid-range; full masonry replacement is costly. Always prioritize structural repairs (repointing, flashing, roofline) before cosmetic changes. For historic homes, check local preservation rules before painting original brick and consult professionals for major alterations.
Design Inspiration and Color Ideas
Complementary color schemes for red brick include:
- Charcoal trim, white accents, and warm wood tones
- Deep green door, black gutters, and bronze fixtures for classic curb appeal
- Soft gray siding above brick with black windows for a modern farmhouse look
Use sample boards and photograph them in different light to choose the best palette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I paint red brick without damaging it?
A1: Yes, if you prepare the surface properly and use breathable masonry paint. Painting blocks moisture exchange; using non-breathable coatings can trap moisture and damage mortar. Test a small area first and consult product specs.
Q2: How do I clean mold and efflorescence from brick?
A2: For mold and mildew, use a diluted bleach solution or a masonry cleaner and scrub with a stiff brush. Efflorescence (white mineral deposits) can be removed with a brush and a mild acid cleaner formulated for masonry. After cleaning, let the brick dry and consider sealing problem areas.
Q3: Is it better to repair mortar or replace bricks that are damaged?
A3: Repointing (repairing mortar) addresses most durability issues and is less expensive than replacing bricks. Replace bricks only when they are cracked, spalling, or structurally compromised. Matching new bricks to old can be challenging—save samples and work with a mason for the best match.
Conclusion: Pick One Idea and Start Today
Whether you opt for subtle repairs, bold paint, or fresh landscaping, these ideas for red brick house exteriors show that a dramatic transformation doesn’t require tearing down walls—just thoughtful design and the right DIY steps. Ready to get started? Choose one small project—clean and repoint a section, add contrasting trim, or update the front door—and build momentum from there.
If you want more step-by-step projects, check out our DIY projects and get inspiration from other home design ideas. For kitchen-adjacent exterior updates or entryway makeovers that tie into interior style, visit our kitchen upgrades page.
Have a red brick makeover in mind? Share your plan or ask for advice in the comments—let’s bring your vision to life.
