Brick Finishes

Brick finishes whether inside or outside have always been a desired decorating style. Brick and stucco finishes add tremendous value to a house increasing the re-sale value. Beyond that it adds beauty to the house with numerous decorating opportunities. When is often used outside, because of bring extremely waterproof.

While brick finishes are preferred, it is at times the only possibility is to use faux brick finishes. A faux finish is a word used to explain a false picture or the illusion of something that is not really there. The step on how to faux finish without the roughness of a traditional brick can be applied by using household items and paint. To get an idea of what colors or textures you would like, look at samples of traditional brick. To add a realistic look, it is best to use stencil to create vines or flowers scaling the brick or at the base of the “brick wall.”

Faux brick finishes on a fireplace are a top design, since many fireplaces are from many years ago and need to be updated. For a fireplace, apply a cement back board to the fireplace, and then continue with the faux stone or faux brick finish.

Brick finish painting can add a different dimension and color to enhance an interior design. Before applying a paint or glaze, use a ruler and mark guidelines for “rows” of bricks, being sure to stagger the design, for the look of true brick. Place the desired paint or glaze on a plate, use a brush to dab colors onto a sponge. Remove excess paint or glaze, and then press onto surface. To detail a brick wall finish, begin with an aging wash, then add paint or glaze accents and shadows. To age a stucco brick finish, apply small amounts of accents and dark colored paint or glaze. Once the project is finished, apply a coat of polyurethane to the entire piece.

Broken brick finishes can add the illusion of an old building or fireplace. Adding the illusion of a worn fireplace, or wall can add warmth and old world charm to an otherwise new style home or room. When making the grid for a faux brick design, look at pictures of walls or missing bricks and replicate the design while it may not be a prime design choice for someone with an actual home with broken brick, the faux idea brings style without the cost of repairing a part of a foundation or fire place.