How to Whitewash Interior and Exterior Brick Like a Pro

Key Points

• Clean brick thoroughly and allow it to dry before applying a whitewash mix of equal parts latex paint and water.
• Apply whitewash using a brush, roller, or sprayer, then blot for texture and let dry for 2–4 hours before touch-ups.
• Seal brick in humid or outdoor areas using a breathable masonry sealer to protect the finish and maintain longevity.

Brighten Up Without Covering Up: The Whitewash Brick Revival

Ever feel like your red brick fireplace makes the whole room feel dark and dated?

Wondering if there’s a simple way to freshen up the look of your home’s brick without hiding its charm under layers of thick paint?

This guide will walk you through exactly how to whitewash brick—from gathering supplies to applying the finish—so you can transform any brick surface without losing its natural texture.

You’ll also learn how to keep that fresh, clean look lasting for years with minimal upkeep.

By the end, you’ll be ready to give your Ann Arbor home a brighter, more modern look while keeping that classic brick character intact.

Want a pro to handle the interior painting or exterior painting for you?

Call Tribble Painting Company or fill out the quick contact form—we’ve got you covered.

What Is Whitewashing? (And Why It’s Different from Painting)

Whitewashing brick is a simple technique that gives walls, fireplaces, and even exteriors a lighter, brighter feel—without fully covering up the brick’s texture.

Unlike a traditional paint job that coats the brick surface in solid color, whitewash is made by diluting latex paint with water.

Follow the links if you want to learn how to paint brick instead, or want to understand the pros and cons of painting a brick exterior.

This creates a semi-transparent effect that softens the natural brick color while still allowing it to show through.

Here’s how whitewashing brick compares to painting:

• Whitewash lets the surface breathe. It seeps into the brick instead of forming a solid barrier.
• The final look is more organic, with some variation in coverage—ideal for rustic or farmhouse styles.
• Paint creates a uniform, opaque finish, which can look more modern but hides the brick’s natural texture.
• Whitewashing is easier to change or touch up years down the line if you want a new look.

If you’re looking for a way to refresh red brick walls without losing their charm, whitewashed brick may be the perfect solution—especially for older homes around Ann Arbor that still have original masonry.

Whitewash vs. Limewash: What’s the Difference?

Although often used interchangeably, whitewash and limewash are two distinct finishes.

Both brighten up brick, but they differ in composition, appearance, and how they hold up in Michigan’s seasonal shifts.

Key Differences:

• Whitewash: A blend of latex paint and water. It’s easy to make, affordable, and gives soft, cloudy coverage.
• Limewash: Made from crushed limestone and water. It creates a chalkier finish and naturally seals the surface, making it more breathable for older masonry.

Visual & Performance Comparison:

• Whitewash gives a brighter, more consistent look. It’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects, especially where you want to keep some brick color showing.
• Limewash tends to patina over time, changing slightly as it reacts with the environment—a look some homeowners tend to love for its aged, Old World feel.
• Whitewashing brick is often preferred indoors for its ease of use and controllable coverage, while limewash is better suited to historic exteriors where breathability matters most.

No matter which you choose, both finishes give you that timeless, updated look without fully erasing your brick’s texture.

Up next, we’ll cover whether whitewashing is a good idea for your particular room or exterior surface.

Is Whitewashing Brick a Good Idea?

If you’re looking to update an older house in Ann Arbor without losing its character, whitewashing brick can be a smart move.

It balances modern style with natural charm and is much more forgiving than full paint coverage.

But like any home improvement project, it’s not the right fit for every situation.

Benefits for Indoor Brick

• Brightens dark areas like fireplaces or accent walls without hiding the texture
• Adds a timeless look to living rooms, kitchens, or entryways
• Creates a cozy, lived-in vibe without needing a full remodel
• Ideal for red brick that feels too bold for your current design

Advantages for Exterior Brick

• Boosts curb appeal without losing the natural look of the brick
• Softens the appearance of weathered or mismatched brick color
• Works well on exteriors that were installed decades ago and are ready for a fresh touch

When It Might Not Be Right

• If the brick is crumbling or sealed, whitewash might not absorb evenly
• Painted brick won’t take a traditional whitewashing, since the surface is already coated
• Homes with heavy moisture issues may need a different approach or a breathable sealer

Long-Term Considerations

• White washed brick usually fades gently over time—this is part of its charm, not a mistake
• Touch-ups every few years help keep it looking fresh
• It’s easier to remove or change than standard paint, offering more control over future style updates

So if you’ve been feeling hesitant about slapping a solid coat of paint on your home’s natural masonry, whitewashing brick may be the perfect middle ground.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Getting your supplies ready is the first step in learning how to whitewash brick the right way.

Most items can be found at any hardware store, and you likely already have a few of them in the garage.

Step 1: Prepare the Brick Surface

Getting a clean and dry surface is key before you apply any whitewash.

This step might not be flashy, but skipping it is a common mistake that ruins the final look.

Here’s how to prep your brick the right way:

• Scrub the surface using a stiff-bristle brush and mild soap or diluted TSP (trisodium phosphate)
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely—a damp brick won’t hold the whitewash properly
• Remove any loose mortar, dirt, or peeling material that’s been there since the house was built years ago
• Protect surrounding areas with drop cloths, and don’t forget to tape off nearby walls, trim, and windows

This step takes a bit of effort, but it sets the stage for even coverage and a long-lasting finish.

Step 2: Mix Your Whitewash

Now that your surface is prepped, it’s time to mix your whitewash.

The right ratio will depend on how much of the original brick you want to show through.

The basic mix:

• Combine equal parts flat white latex paint and water (1:1 ratio)
• Stir well until fully blended—this helps avoid uneven coverage
• For a more transparent look, thin it out with more water
• Want more color? Add a tint like gray or beige for a softer tone
• Test your mix on a hidden spot to see how it dries before going all in

This step lets you control how much of the brick’s original texture comes through, giving you flexibility based on your style.

Step 3: Apply the Whitewash

Here’s where the fun begins.

The way you apply your whitewash affects everything from the final texture to how authentic the finish looks.

Pick a method that fits your project size and your vision.

Technique Options:

• Brush-on and rag-off: Great for fireplaces or feature walls where you want more variation
• Roll it on: Speeds up larger areas but may need extra blotting for that rustic look. Follow the link to learn how to choose the best paint roller.
• Spray application: Best for exteriors or very large walls—just mask off anything you don’t want to wash

Application Tips:

• Work in small sections so you can watch the result and wipe off excess before it dries
• Start at the top and work your way down to avoid drips on finished areas
• Use a damp rag to blot or rub down areas for a more weathered, layered feel
• Let the first coat dry before adding more, if needed

Pro tip: Less is more. You can always add another layer, but it’s harder to undo if you’ve applied too much at once.

Step 4: Let It Dry and Evaluate

The drying process doesn’t take long, but patience pays off.

• Most whitewash jobs dry in about 2–4 hours, depending on humidity and ventilation
• Once dry, step back and assess—do you want more coverage, or is it just right?
• Touch up any uneven spots with diluted paint or dry brushing
• If you decide to add a second coat, keep it light to avoid masking the brick’s texture. Follow the link to learn how long to wait between coats.

Dry time is also your chance to see how the color settles—it may lighten a bit as it cures.

Step 5 (Optional): Seal the Brick

Sealing isn’t required for every whitewashed brick surface, but it’s a smart idea if the brick is outside or in a humid area.

When sealing makes sense:

• Exterior walls, especially those exposed to rain or near garden shrubs
• Kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms where moisture levels fluctuate
• High-touch areas like entryways near your front door

Sealant Options:

• Breathable masonry sealers protect without trapping moisture—ideal for older homes
• Non-breathable sealers offer stronger protection but may alter the look slightly with a sheen

Just like with your whitewash coat, always test the sealer on a small area first to make sure you like the finish before doing the whole surface.

Then you’re all set to enjoy your refreshed brick for years to come.

FAQs About Whitewashing Brick

Still have questions about how to whitewash brick in your Ann Arbor home?

Here are some quick answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:

Can You Whitewash Painted Brick?

• No, traditional whitewash won’t absorb into painted brick.
• To get the look of whitewashed brick, you’ll need to scrub off the old paint first.

How Long Does Whitewash Last?

• Indoors, a good whitewash job can last years with very little maintenance.
• Outdoor surfaces may need touch-ups every 3–5 years, depending on weather exposure.
• High-traffic areas (like around a front door) might show wear sooner and may benefit from sealing.

Can You Tint Whitewash?

• Definitely! Adding a touch of beige, gray, or greige helps tone down the white for a softer, custom finish.
• Use a mix of latex paint and water, then blend in a few ounces of colored paint until you like the tone.
• Always test your tinted white wash in a hidden spot first to be sure you love the color once it dries.

Ready to Transform Your Brick? Let Tribble Painting Company Handle the Hard Part

Now that you know exactly how to whitewash brick, you’ve got the tools, knowledge, and tips to take on everything from prepping old red brick to choosing the right technique for your space.

Whether you’re working indoors or out, the right approach can highlight your home’s best features while preserving that classic texture.

Not sure if DIY is the best path for your project?

Let the professional painters at Tribble Painting Company take care of the prep, application, and clean finish—so you can enjoy the results without the hassle.