Changing the colour of the bricks on your home is an appealing way to give your property a new look without the expense and hassle of a full renovation. Whether you’re trying to update the exterior of a period home or simply tired of the old look, painting or staining your brick can breathe new life into your house. However, before taking on this project, it’s important to understand the costs associated with changing the colour of brick.
In this article, we will discuss the average costs involved in changing the colour of brick on a house, including factors that can influence the price, the different methods of changing brick colour, and the overall considerations for homeowners planning this type of home improvement.
Understanding the Process of Changing the Colour of Brick
Changing the colour of brick involves several steps. Typically, the process involves either painting, staining, or applying a specialised coating to the brick surface. Each method has its own set of advantages, costs, and labour requirements. Below is a breakdown of the most common methods used to change the colour of brick.
1. Painting Brick
Painting brick is one of the most common ways to change its colour. It involves applying a thick coat of specialised paint designed for brick and masonry. This method can completely transform the look of your house, and it’s relatively straightforward to apply, especially if you’re hiring a professional to do the job.
- Pros: Provides an extensive range of colour options, quick transformation.
- Cons: Requires maintenance as paint can peel or fade over time, may need to be reapplied every few years.
2. Staining Brick
Staining brick involves applying a translucent or semi-transparent stain that penetrates the surface of the brick. This method changes the colour of the brick while still allowing the texture and natural pattern to show through.
- Pros: Lasts longer than paint, preserves the natural look of the brick.
- Cons: Fewer colour options, may require professional application.
3. Limewash
Limewash is a natural paint product made from lime and pigment, designed to penetrate the surface of the brick. It has an ancient tradition in brick restoration and is often used for more rustic looks. The coverage can be lighter, giving the brick a weathered appearance.
- Pros: Environmentally friendly, creates a natural, aged look.
- Cons: May not provide the same level of vibrant colour as paint, can wear off over time.
4. Brick Dye
Brick dyeing is a newer method where dye is applied to the brick. It is typically used for achieving a more uniform colour change, especially if you are trying to match a particular hue or tone.
- Pros: More permanent than paint, doesn’t peel or chip.
- Cons: Less widely available, requires professional application.
Factors Affecting the Cost to Change Brick Colour
The total cost of changing the colour of brick will depend on several factors, including the size of the house, the method you choose, and whether you hire professionals. Below, we explore the key factors that can impact the overall cost.
1. Size of the Area
The size of the area that needs to be painted, stained, or coated will have a direct impact on the cost. Larger homes or homes with extensive brick facades will naturally require more materials and more labour. For instance, a two-storey home will cost more to cover than a smaller bungalow.
2. Method of Colour Change
As mentioned, the method you choose to change the colour of your bricks will significantly affect the cost. While painting is typically the most affordable option, other methods like staining or limewashing can cost more due to the specialised materials and application processes involved. Below is a comparison of the estimated costs for each method.
3. Labour Costs
The cost of labour can vary depending on where you live, the complexity of the job, and whether you are hiring a professional company or attempting to do it yourself. Hiring a professional is usually the best option to ensure that the work is done safely and efficiently, especially if you’re using a technique like staining or limewashing.
4. Condition of the Bricks
If the bricks on your property are old or damaged, the cost of changing their colour could increase. Brick surfaces that are dirty, cracked, or have not been properly maintained may need to be cleaned or repaired before any colour treatment can be applied.
5. Accessibility
If your house is multi-storey or has hard-to-reach areas, such as high walls or a steep roof, the cost of applying the new colour will be higher. The need for scaffolding or ladders will add to the cost of the project.
Average Cost Breakdown for Changing Brick Colour
Now that we’ve discussed the factors that influence the cost, let’s take a closer look at the average prices for each method of changing the colour of brick.
| Method | Average Cost per Square Metre | Total Estimated Cost for a 100m² House |
|---|---|---|
| Painting | £20 – £40 | £2,000 – £4,000 |
| Staining | £25 – £50 | £2,500 – £5,000 |
| Limewashing | £30 – £60 | £3,000 – £6,000 |
| Brick Dye | £40 – £70 | £4,000 – £7,000 |
1. Painting
- Average Cost per Square Metre: £20 – £40
- Total Estimated Cost for a 100m² House: £2,000 – £4,000
Painting is the most affordable option for changing the colour of your bricks. The cost will vary depending on the quality of the paint and the number of coats required. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a quick transformation, but you will need to factor in long-term maintenance costs, as paint can fade or peel over time.
2. Staining
- Average Cost per Square Metre: £25 – £50
- Total Estimated Cost for a 100m² House: £2,500 – £5,000
Staining is a slightly more expensive option than painting but provides a more durable finish. The cost is higher because staining involves applying a professional-grade product that requires more preparation. However, it’s worth the extra cost for the long-lasting benefits.
3. Limewashing
- Average Cost per Square Metre: £30 – £60
- Total Estimated Cost for a 100m² House: £3,000 – £6,000
Limewashing is the most expensive method for changing brick colour due to the higher cost of materials and the more intricate application process. The rustic, aged look it produces is highly desirable for many homeowners, especially those with period properties, but it may not be suitable for all tastes or homes.
4. Brick Dye
- Average Cost per Square Metre: £40 – £70
- Total Estimated Cost for a 100m² House: £4,000 – £7,000
Brick dyeing is the most specialised and expensive method of changing the colour of bricks. It offers the most long-lasting and vibrant results, and the cost reflects the expertise required for the process. If you’re looking for a permanent solution that doesn’t peel, brick dyeing is the best option but comes at a premium price.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the basic costs of applying paint, stain, or dye, there are other factors that can influence the overall cost of changing the colour of your brick. Below are some additional expenses that may arise during the project:
1. Surface Preparation
Before applying any paint or stain, the surface of the brick will need to be prepared. This may include pressure washing, scraping off old paint, repairing any cracks, or sealing the surface. Surface preparation can cost an additional £300 to £800 depending on the size of the house and the condition of the bricks.
2. Scaffolding or Ladders
If your house is multi-storey or difficult to access, scaffolding or ladders may be required for the job. The cost for scaffolding can range from £300 to £1,000, depending on the height and complexity of the structure.
3. Maintenance and Touch-ups
As mentioned earlier, painting and staining can wear over time. Be prepared for maintenance costs, which may include touch-ups every few years. Maintenance costs can range from £200 to £500 per year, depending on the method used.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Home
When deciding how to change the colour of your brick, it’s important to consider the long-term costs, the look you’re aiming for, and how much maintenance you’re willing to undertake. Painting is the cheapest and fastest method but may need frequent touch-ups. Staining provides a durable, natural finish with less upkeep. Limewashing creates a rustic look with an eco-friendly touch but at a higher price. Brick dyeing offers the most permanent results but is also the most expensive.
For homeowners who want a high-quality, long-lasting finish and are prepared to invest in professional services, staining or brick dyeing might be the best option. However, if you’re working with a tighter budget or need a quick transformation, painting could be a cost-effective solution.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, the condition of your bricks, and how much you’re willing to invest in the upkeep of the new colour. Whether you’re after a contemporary look or a traditional feel, there’s a method to suit your needs.
If you’re looking to change the colour of your brick home, check out Brick Makeover for more information on options available to you.