The iconic red brick is a signature feature of many St. Louis homes, adding a timeless charm and character. But over time, even the sturdiest brick can succumb to the elements, losing its vibrancy or becoming stained. If you're looking to refresh your St. Louis home's exterior without sacrificing the classic brick aesthetic, consider painting your brick with Sherwin-Williams Loxon products.
This blog delves into everything you need to know about painting brick with Loxon in St. Louis, from understanding the benefits to the application process. We'll also explore some specifics to the St. Louis area and brick painting.
Malone Painting is your trusted partner for revitalizing your St. Louis home's exterior with Sherwin-Williams Loxon brick paint. With our expertise and attention to detail, we ensure a seamless application process, preserving the integrity of your brick while giving it a fresh, vibrant look.
Why Consider Painting Brick in St. Louis with Malone Painting?
While St. Louis boasts a temperate climate, harsh winters and summer humidity can take a toll on exposed brick. Painting offers several advantages:
Revitalizes Curb Appeal: A fresh coat of paint can dramatically enhance your home's exterior, increasing curb appeal and potentially boosting property value.
Protects Against the Elements: Loxon products are formulated specifically for masonry surfaces, providing excellent protection against UV rays, moisture intrusion, and efflorescence (the white mineral deposits that can appear on brick).
Hides Imperfections: Paint can effectively conceal minor cracks, chips, and stains on your brick, restoring its pristine appearance.
Customizes Your Style: Don't be limited by traditional red brick! Loxon offers a wide range of colors to personalize your St. Louis home's exterior and match your design vision.
Understanding Loxon Products for Brick Painting
Sherwin-Williams Loxon offers two primary options for painting brick:
Loxon XP Concrete & Masonry Coating: This all-in-one product acts as a primer and topcoat, eliminating the need for a separate primer. It's ideal for most brick painting projects in St. Louis due to its weather resistance, mildew prevention, and elastomeric properties that allow for slight movement with temperature changes.
Loxon Concrete & Masonry Primer/Sealer: This product provides a strong foundation for a topcoat paint, especially if your brick is heavily stained or requires additional protection. It can be used with various Sherwin-Williams topcoats designed for masonry surfaces.
Preparing Your St. Louis Brick for Painting
Before diving into painting, proper preparation is key for a successful and long-lasting finish in St. Louis's climate:
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brick surface using a pressure washer or a solution of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and water. Ensure all dirt, dust, cobwebs, and loose mortar are removed. Let the brick dry completely for at least 48 hours.
Repairs: Address any cracks, gaps, or damaged mortar joints with a suitable patching compound designed for masonry. Allow for proper curing time before proceeding.
Masking: Meticulously mask windows, doors, trim, and other areas you don't want painted. Use painter's tape and drop cloths to protect your landscaping and surrounding areas.
Applying Loxon to Your St. Louis Brick
For Loxon XP:
Stir the paint thoroughly before use.
Apply a thin, even coat of Loxon XP using a high-quality masonry roller or a sprayer for larger areas.
Backroll the surface with a brush to ensure proper penetration into the brick texture.
Allow for recommended drying time before applying a second coat, typically 4-6 hours depending on weather conditions.
Apply a second coat for optimal coverage and protection.
For Loxon Primer/Sealer with Topcoat:
Apply a coat of Loxon Primer/Sealer following the manufacturer's instructions.
Allow for complete drying time as specified.
Apply a topcoat paint designed for masonry surfaces, following the manufacturer's recommended number of coats.
Pro Tips for Painting Brick in St. Louis
Choose the Right Weather: Avoid painting in direct sunlight, extreme heat, or high humidity. Opt for mild temperatures with clear skies for optimal drying conditions.
Work in Sections: Don't attempt to paint the entire house at once. Divide the project into manageable sections to ensure even coverage.
Safety Considerations and Additional Tips
Safety First: When using Loxon products, wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator if using a sprayer. Ensure proper ventilation while painting.
Clean Up: Promptly clean up spills and splatters with soap and water. Dispose of paint rags and drop cloths according to local regulations.
Considering a Professional: Painting brick, especially on larger homes or intricate details, can be a time-consuming task. If you lack the experience or confidence, consider hiring a professional painting contractor experienced with Loxon products and St. Louis-specific considerations.
Long-Term Care for Your Painted Brick
Maintenance: Regularly inspect your painted brick for signs of chipping, peeling, or fading. Address minor issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Cleaning: For routine cleaning, use a mild detergent solution and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the paint.
By following these steps and using high-quality Sherwin-Williams Loxon products, you can transform your St. Louis home's exterior with a beautiful and protective coat of paint. With proper preparation, application, and maintenance, your newly painted brick facade will become a source of pride for years to come, adding a touch of timeless charm to the iconic St. Louis streetscape.
For a touch of St. Louis inspiration, consider exploring historic neighborhoods like Lafayette Square or Soulard, where many homes feature painted brick facades. Drawing inspiration from these architectural gems can help you visualize the perfect color scheme for your own St. Louis home.
Remember, a fresh coat of paint on your brick façade is an investment that not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also protects it from the elements. With careful planning and the right products, you can breathe new life into your St. Louis classic.