External Brick Tinting

Highwater2010

I've been told external painting of bricks is not a good idea. Brick tinting seems to be a better alternative but I don't know much about it and don't know anyone who's had it done. Anyone had it done? Would you recommend it? Is it expensive? There don't appear to be many companies offering the service and I don't want to waste time getting quotes if it's very expensive. Any info/advice would be really appreciated. Cheers

victorias_dad

I have seen this done, I think it was on a Tommy Walsh program where people source free building materials, this chap had built a small extension using bricks of an entirely different colour to the main house and then had them tinted the end results looked excellent as they say you could not see the join they are tinted in situ though so its not a job if you like to rush things.

SailorSam

I forget which programme it was now, but a few weeks ago there was one you know where a couple bought an old warehouse in London and converted it to a home, they had lots of problems getting it done because the Opera house next door didn.t want a joint wall altering, finally when it was completed the Opera house wanted it demolished because some of the bricks didn't match the neighbourhood. The Council had already passed the plans but still their only option was to colour the bricks. I can't remember the figure but it cost thousands.

ormus

using oil based paints is a strict no no on bricks. water based paint such as Sandtex is ok.
far far cheaper than any "tinted brick" specialists!

iamcornholio

Specialist brick tinting is normally done as part of conservation work where new work needs to match in to existing. It does work well as long as the new bricks are suitable for tinting and are already a close match. Pick the wrong brick, and you end up with some artificial plastic-looking mess.

It's a specialist job and so carries a premium. Whether this is "expensive" or not you will have to determine for yourself. It costs more than painting, but it's not painting and the application and outcome is completely different

I am not sure if this is still available, but there used to be a DIY option in the form of a tin of dye which was sold just like normal paint and this was brushed on and it toned the bricks. It was advertised as suitable for blending in bricked up doors and windows. I'm going back 15 years or so when I recall it advertised in the trade press, so can't remember names etc

ormus

you may as well thin out sandtex with water.
you would need to do test pieces first.
start with say a 50/50 mix.

knowloads

Water based acrylic, breathable tint is about £100 for 15ltrs. watered 10% dilution and you will get over 100mtrs from a drum. Hard long work as you don't want the joints coloured. The same product is used to paint the lot. Being micro-porous it works fine. 10-15yrs expected lifespan. They do 2-3 brick colours I think.