Painting Brick

[bluesferg]

Just got back from home depot and was told you cannot paint exterior brick. What is the preparation and what sort of paint is used. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

[mrcaptainbob]

I sure find that hard to believe! Not that you were told that, but WHAT you were told! I'd bet if you went to a Painter's Supply store, they'd help you out. Can you imagine just giving a quick spritz on brick from a spray can just how difficult it would be to get it off? Kinda makes you wonder why Graffiti holds up so well on buildings and x-way overpasses! I think if the brick is powerwashed and let to dry, using a good exterior grade of paint (also primer, by the way) would work out fine. ($0.02)

[Kay]

What are the pros and cons of painting exterior brick?