The Only Solution is Brick Staining.

When it comes to older brick buildings—whether they’re historic homes, commercial spaces, or office buildings—many property owners face the question of how to update or refresh the look without damaging the structure. In the past, painting brick was often considered the go-to solution. But today, there are far better alternatives that preserve the integrity of the brick while modernizing its appearance. One of the best alternatives is brick staining, but there are also methods for stripping away paint and restoring brick to its former glory.

Why Brick Staining is a Better Alternative to Painting

Staining brick has become the preferred choice for property owners looking to change the color or refresh the appearance of their building. Unlike paint, which forms a layer on top of the brick, stain penetrates the surface, allowing the brick to retain its natural texture and breathability. This difference is crucial for older buildings, where maintaining the integrity of the original materials is important.

Here are some of the key advantages of brick staining:

1. Preserving the Brick’s Natural Breathability: Brick is a porous material that naturally absorbs and releases moisture. When you paint brick, you seal off its ability to "breathe," which can trap moisture inside and lead to long-term damage like spalling, efflorescence, and even mold. Stain, on the other hand, soaks into the brick, allowing it to retain its natural breathability. This makes staining ideal for older structures, where moisture control is essential to prevent deterioration over time.

2. Longer Lasting Results: Unlike paint, which tends to chip, peel, and fade after just a few years, brick stain offers a much longer-lasting solution. Because it penetrates deep into the brick, it doesn’t sit on the surface and deteriorate as paint does. Stained brick typically lasts decades without the need for constant maintenance, making it a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

3. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Staining allows you to change the color of the brick while maintaining its natural texture and appearance. This is especially important for older buildings, where the original brick may be a key architectural feature. With a range of color options available, you can modernize the look of your building without sacrificing the natural charm of the brick.

4. Lower Maintenance: Stained brick requires far less maintenance than painted brick. You won’t have to worry about repainting every few years or dealing with peeling and flaking paint. Instead, stained brick can be easily cleaned and will maintain its appearance for many years without major upkeep. For commercial and residential buildings alike, this is a huge advantage.

Stripping Paint: A Key Part of Renovation and Restoration

If you’ve already painted your brick building and are now facing the consequences of that decision, there’s still hope. While removing paint from brick can be a challenging process, it’s often a necessary step in restoring a building to its original state. Depending on the condition of the brick and the extent of the paint, professional contractors can employ different methods to strip away the paint and restore the natural beauty of the brick.

1. Chemical Paint Stripping: Chemical strippers designed for masonry can be used to break down layers of paint without damaging the brick itself. This method requires careful application by professionals who understand how to work with older buildings. While chemical stripping can be time-consuming, it’s an effective way to remove paint without causing further harm to the brick.

2. Soda Blasting: Soda blasting is a less abrasive alternative to sandblasting, using baking soda to remove paint without damaging the brick surface. This method is ideal for older, more delicate brick, as it removes the paint while leaving the structure intact. It’s a popular choice for restoring historic buildings that have been painted in the past.

3. Restoration and Sealing: Once the paint has been removed, it's important to restore and protect the brick. Sealing the brick can help prevent future damage, especially if the building is in an area with harsh weather conditions. Sealing allows the brick to continue breathing while protecting it from moisture, mold, and environmental wear. For older buildings, this step is crucial to ensure the longevity of the restoration work.

A General Contractor’s Expertise: The Right Choice for Renovation

Many property owners make the mistake of calling a painter when they want to update the look of their brick building. While painters might agree to paint over brick, they often lack the deeper understanding of the long-term effects on the structure. At Keys Construction and Remodeling, we approach the situation differently. As general contractors, we look beyond the immediate cosmetic results and focus on the health and longevity of the building.

We understand that for older buildings, it’s not just about updating the look—it’s about preserving the integrity of the structure. Our team can recommend solutions like staining, restoration, or paint removal, all while ensuring that the building remains structurally sound. This approach is what sets us apart from typical painting companies, whose focus is on quick, surface-level fixes that may cause bigger problems down the road.

Staining and Restoration, Not Painting

In today’s world, there are far better alternatives to painting brick. Whether you’re revitalizing a historic home, renovating a commercial space, or updating an office building, brick staining offers a longer-lasting, more durable, and aesthetically appealing solution. Additionally, if your building has already been painted, there are professional methods available to strip away the paint and restore the brick to its original beauty.

At Keys Construction and Remodeling, we specialize in renovation and restoration for both commercial and residential buildings. We understand the unique needs of older buildings and can guide you through the best solutions to ensure that your property not only looks great but stands the test of time. Before you make the mistake of painting brick—or if you’re looking to reverse that decision—reach out to us for expert advice and professional service.

With locations in Petoskey (325 E Lake St, Suite 1) and Southfield, Detroit (15565 Northland Drive, Suite 823), we are ready to help you protect and enhance your brick building with solutions that go beyond the paintbrush.