Your home’s style evolves, and a feature that once felt perfect can start to feel out of place. An exposed brick wall, with its distinct color and texture, often dictates the entire design of a room. If you’re ready for a brighter, more modern, or completely different aesthetic, that brick might feel like a roadblock. The good news is, you have options. Covering it up is a powerful design move that can completely refresh your space, giving you a blank canvas to work with. Let’s explore the most popular ways to cover an internal brick wall, from simple cosmetic updates to full transformations that will redefine your room.
Key Takeaways
- Decide if covering is right for you: Covering a brick wall can brighten a room and improve insulation, but keeping it exposed offers unique texture and character. Weigh the pros and cons based on your brick’s condition and your personal style.
- Proper prep prevents future problems: Before starting, always clean the surface, repair cracks with the correct mortar, and use a breathable primer. These steps are crucial for preventing moisture damage and ensuring your new finish lasts.
- Know when to DIY versus hiring a pro: Simple cosmetic updates like painting are great DIY projects. For more complex jobs like plastering, stone application, or structural repairs, hiring a professional ensures a flawless finish and protects your home’s integrity.
Should You Cover Your Interior Brick Wall?
That exposed brick wall you’ve been staring at can feel like both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s a feature packed with character, texture, and a sense of history. On the other, it might not fit your design vision, or it could be showing its age with cracks and drafts. Deciding whether to cover it is a big step, but it’s a common dilemma for homeowners looking to refresh their space. The right choice depends entirely on your home’s condition, your personal style, and your long-term goals.
Exposed brick can be a stunning focal point, lending a rustic or industrial vibe that’s hard to replicate. It tells a story and adds a layer of authenticity to a room. However, it’s not always practical. Brick can be porous, making it prone to moisture, and it isn’t the best insulator, which can affect your home’s energy efficiency. If the brick is damaged or simply doesn’t align with the bright, clean aesthetic you’re dreaming of, covering it can be a transformative part of your home remodeling project. Let’s walk through the pros and cons to help you make a confident decision.
Reasons to Cover Your Brick Wall
While exposed brick has its charm, there are plenty of valid reasons to cover it up. You might simply be ready for a new look. Covering a dark or dated brick wall can instantly brighten a room and give you a clean canvas for a different style. It’s also a practical choice if the brick is in poor condition. The interior brick in many homes was never intended to be seen, so it may be lower quality, mismatched, or damaged. Covering it is often easier and more cost-effective than extensive repairs. Finally, covering brick can improve your home’s energy efficiency by adding a layer of insulation and sealing drafts, making your space more comfortable year-round.
Reasons to Keep Your Brick Exposed
If your brick is in good shape, keeping it exposed can be a fantastic design choice. It offers a unique texture and warmth that you just can’t get from drywall. An exposed brick wall can serve as a stunning accent, adding a sense of history and timeless character to any room, from the living room to the kitchen. It works beautifully with various styles, including industrial, rustic, modern, and eclectic. The rich colors and natural variations in the brick can become the centerpiece of your decor, creating an inviting and stylish atmosphere that feels both authentic and chic. It’s a feature that makes a statement all on its own.
Busting Common Myths About Covering Brick
There are a few misconceptions about covering interior brick that might be holding you back. One common myth is that covering brick will always cause moisture problems. The truth is, problems only arise when the wall is covered improperly with the wrong materials. A professional masonry expert will know how to prepare the surface and use breathable materials to prevent trapped moisture. Another myth is that you’ll lose that authentic brick look forever. If you love the texture but not the color or condition of your current wall, you can always install a new surface like thin brick tiles or stone cladding for a fresh, flawless finish.
How to Prepare Your Brick Wall for Covering
Before you jump into the fun part of transforming your brick wall, a little prep work is essential. Think of it as setting the stage for a flawless performance. Properly preparing the surface ensures your new covering will look beautiful and last for years. Skipping these steps can lead to issues down the road, so taking the time to do it right is a smart investment in your home. These four steps will get your wall ready for its makeover.
Step 1: Clean the Brick Surface
First things first, you need a clean slate. Over time, brick collects dust, dirt, and even a bit of grime. You’ll want to get all of that off so your new finish can adhere properly. For most walls, a stiff-bristled brush and a simple cleaning solution will do the trick. Be gentle, especially if your brick is older or showing signs of wear. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains or are worried about damaging the brick, calling in a pro is a great idea. Expert restoration and sealing services can ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
Step 2: Repair Any Cracks or Damage
Next, give your wall a thorough inspection. Look for any cracks, crumbling mortar, or loose bricks. It’s important to fix these spots before you cover them up. Using the wrong type of mortar for repairs can cause more harm than good, leading to more cracking later on. You need a mix that’s compatible with your existing brick and mortar. This is where professional masonry expertise can be a lifesaver, ensuring the structural integrity of your wall is sound before you proceed with any cosmetic changes. A solid, stable surface is key to a lasting finish.
Step 3: Add a Vapor Barrier to Control Moisture
Moisture is the enemy of any successful home project. Brick is a porous material that needs to breathe, meaning it allows moisture to pass through it and evaporate. When you cover it with a non-breathable material, you can trap that moisture inside the wall. This can lead to serious problems like mold, mildew, and deterioration of the brick itself. Installing a vapor barrier is a crucial step to manage moisture and protect your home. This is especially important for exterior-facing interior walls or basement walls where moisture levels can be higher.
Step 4: Apply Primer or a Sealant
The final prep step is to apply a quality primer or sealant. This creates a uniform surface for your chosen covering and helps it adhere better. Most importantly, you need to choose a breathable, or vapor-permeable, product specifically designed for masonry. A non-breathable sealant will trap water vapor just like an improper covering would, which can cause paint to peel and the brick face to flake off. A good primer will also prevent the porous brick from soaking up too much paint or plaster, saving you time and material in the long run.
7 Creative Ways to Cover an Interior Brick Wall
Once you’ve prepped your wall, the fun part begins. Covering an interior brick wall isn’t just about hiding something you don’t like; it’s an opportunity to introduce a new style, texture, and personality into your space. From simple cosmetic updates to more structural changes, there’s a solution for every design goal and budget. Let’s walk through seven creative ways you can transform your brick wall from a feature you’re unsure about into a stunning focal point you’ll love.
1. Paint or Limewash
Painting is one of the most straightforward ways to update an interior brick wall. A few coats of paint can instantly brighten a room and give it a clean, modern look. For a more nuanced and classic finish, consider limewash. This special paint, made from lime and water, soaks into the brick instead of sitting on top of it. The result is a soft, matte texture that gives the brick a beautiful, slightly weathered appearance. You can apply multiple coats to achieve a whiter, more opaque finish while still maintaining the brick’s natural character. This is a fantastic weekend project for a quick room refresh.
2. Whitewashing
If you like the idea of lightening up your brick but find solid paint a bit too flat, whitewashing is an excellent middle ground. More opaque than limewash, this technique involves applying a watered-down paint solution to the brick. It tones down the original color, usually red or brown, while allowing the natural texture and some color variation to peek through. This method is perfect for achieving a rustic, shabby-chic, or coastal aesthetic. Whitewashing can dramatically change the mood of a room, making it feel brighter and more open without completely erasing the charm of the exposed brick.
3. Plaster, Render, or Stucco
For a complete transformation that adds texture and depth, consider covering your brick wall with plaster, render, or stucco. This method involves applying a plaster-like material directly over the brick to create a new, seamless surface. The finish can be anything from a smooth, polished look to a more rustic, textured effect. This is a durable, long-lasting solution that completely hides the brick and provides a fresh canvas for your interior design. Because it requires skill to get a professional finish, this is often a job for an experienced masonry designer, but the results are truly transformative and can suit any style from Mediterranean to minimalist.
4. Drywall (Stud Wall or Direct Bond)
If you want a perfectly smooth, traditional wall, installing drywall is the best solution. This method completely conceals the brick, giving you a standard wall surface that you can paint or wallpaper. You have two main options: building a new stud wall in front of the brick or attaching furring strips directly to the brick to anchor the drywall sheets. While it’s a more involved project, it’s the most effective way to deal with uneven brick or moisture issues, since you can add insulation and a vapor barrier behind the drywall. This is a core part of many home remodeling projects and offers a truly blank slate.
5. Wood Paneling
Adding wood paneling is a fantastic way to introduce warmth, texture, and character to a room. You can cover the brick with anything from classic beadboard for a traditional look to sleek wood slats for a modern feel or rustic shiplap for a farmhouse vibe. The paneling can be installed over furring strips attached to the brick wall, which also creates a small air gap that helps with insulation and moisture control. Wood paneling not only covers the brick but also becomes a stunning architectural feature in its own right, adding a cozy and inviting atmosphere to your space.
6. Tile or Stone Cladding
To make a bold statement, consider covering your brick wall with tile or a thin stone veneer. This method adds incredible texture, color, and a high-end feel to any room. You can choose from a wide variety of materials, including sleek porcelain tiles for a contemporary look or rugged, earthy natural stone pavers for a rustic, organic feel. This is an especially popular choice for fireplace surrounds or feature walls in living rooms and kitchens. While it requires careful preparation and installation, the result is a durable, artful surface that adds significant visual interest and value to your home.
7. Wallpaper or Fabric Wall Coverings
For a decorative touch that offers endless possibilities in pattern and color, wallpaper or fabric is a great choice. Before you can apply them, the brick wall needs to be smoothed over, typically by installing drywall or applying a skim coat of plaster. Once you have a smooth surface, you can choose from thousands of designs to match your decor. Wallpaper can create a dramatic accent wall, while upholstered fabric panels can add softness and improve acoustics. This method allows you to easily change the look of your room down the line without a major renovation.
Your Shopping List: Materials and Tools for Each Method
A successful project starts long before you pick up a tool. It begins with a clear plan and a well-stocked toolkit. To make things easier, I’ve put together a shopping list for each of the most popular methods for covering brick. Think of these as your pre-project checklists. Gathering everything you need ahead of time means you can focus on the creative part without making extra trips to the hardware store. Before you begin any of these projects, remember that proper wall preparation, including cleaning and repairs, is the key to a lasting finish. If you find any significant damage, our experts in restoration and sealing can ensure your wall is in perfect condition before you start.
Paint, Limewash, and Whitewash
This is one of the most approachable DIY methods, and your shopping list is pretty straightforward. For a classic painted look, you’ll want a good quality masonry primer and paint. For limewash or whitewash, you can buy a pre-mixed product or create your own.
Your list will include:
- Materials: Masonry primer, latex or masonry paint, limewash, or a 1:1 mixture of white latex paint and water for a whitewash effect. Don’t forget painter’s tape and drop cloths.
- Tools: A wire brush for cleaning, natural bristle brushes for limewash, rollers for paint, a paint tray, rags, and a spray bottle with water to dampen the brick before applying limewash.
Plaster, Render, and Stucco
Applying a plaster or stucco finish is a skill that takes practice, but it creates a beautiful, seamless surface. This method completely hides the brick for a modern and clean aesthetic. The key is mixing the material to the right consistency and applying it in thin, even layers.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Materials: A bonding agent to help the plaster stick, your chosen plaster or stucco mix, and clean water for mixing.
- Tools: A powerful drill with a paddle mixer attachment will save your arms. You’ll also need buckets, a hawk to hold the plaster, and a trowel to apply it. Safety glasses and gloves are a must. For a project this involved, many homeowners trust our masonry design team to get a flawless result.
Drywall and Furring Strips
Putting up drywall is the best way to get a perfectly smooth, traditional wall. The process involves building a thin frame over the brick using furring strips, which gives you a flat surface to attach the drywall.
Your shopping list should contain:
- Materials: Wood or metal furring strips, concrete screws to attach them to the brick, drywall sheets, drywall screws, joint compound (mud), and drywall tape.
- Tools: A drill with a masonry bit is essential. You’ll also need a level to get the frame straight, a tape measure, a utility knife for scoring the drywall, and taping knives for the joint compound. This is a foundational step in many home remodeling projects.
Wood Paneling
Wood paneling adds warmth, texture, and character to a room. From rustic shiplap to classic beadboard, the options are nearly endless. Like drywall, this method typically requires attaching wood battens (similar to furring strips) to the brick first.
Here’s what to grab at the store:
- Materials: Your choice of wood paneling, wood battens for the frame, construction adhesive, and finishing nails. You may also need wood filler and your preferred paint or stain.
- Tools: A saw (miter or circular) for cutting panels to size, a nail gun or hammer, a level, a tape measure, and a drill. Seeing how wood can transform a space is part of what makes our custom pavilions and pergolas so special.
Tile and Stone Cladding
For a truly high-end and durable finish, consider cladding your brick wall with tile or a thin stone veneer. This method adds incredible texture and a sense of permanence, turning your wall into a stunning focal point. It’s perfect for fireplace surrounds or creating a dramatic accent wall.
Here is your list of supplies:
- Materials: Your selected tile or stone veneer, a high-quality mortar or thin-set adhesive, and grout if your material requires it.
- Tools: A notched trowel for applying adhesive, a wet saw or tile cutter for precise cuts, a level, a rubber mallet to set the pieces, a grout float, and sponges. You can explore a wide variety of beautiful options at the Gappsi Store, which features an extensive collection of porcelain and natural stone.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Deciding whether to cover your brick wall yourself or bring in a professional comes down to the complexity of the project, your budget, and your comfort level with home improvement tasks. While some methods are straightforward enough for a weekend warrior, others require a skilled hand to get right. Weighing the pros and cons can help you make a choice that protects your home’s value and gives you a result you’ll love for years to come.
Projects You Can Tackle Yourself
If you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, you can likely handle covering a brick wall with drywall. The most common method involves attaching wood furring strips directly to the brick, creating a frame for the drywall panels. This approach is a great way to get a smooth, modern finish without needing specialized masonry skills. Another manageable project is installing timber battens on the wall, which gives you a solid base to anchor your new wall covering. These projects are great if you’re looking for a significant change and aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty.
When It’s Time to Call in the Experts
If your project involves plastering, rendering, or any structural changes, it’s best to call for professional help. A professional masonry expert can test and match existing mortar, ensuring any repairs support the wall’s integrity instead of accidentally damaging it. Achieving a flawless, high-end finish with materials like plaster or limewash also requires specific knowledge. For example, a pro will know to use mineral-based masonry paint designed for brick, not standard house paint, for a clean look that lasts. For a truly seamless transformation, our home remodeling team can handle the project from start to finish.
Mistakes to Avoid No Matter What
Whether you DIY or hire a pro, there are a few critical mistakes to avoid. Never cover your brick wall with impermeable materials like dense stucco, vinyl siding, or certain faux stone panels. These materials can trap moisture inside the brick, preventing it from breathing and leading to serious long-term damage. Using the wrong mortar mix for repairs is another common error that can cause the surrounding bricks to crack or crumble over time. If you suspect a previous owner made these mistakes, our restoration and sealing services can help assess and correct the damage.
Design Ideas for Your New Wall
Once your brick wall is covered, you have a beautiful blank canvas to work with. This is your chance to turn a once-problematic wall into a stunning focal point that complements your home’s style. Instead of just letting it blend into the background, think about how you can use design elements to make your new wall a feature you truly love. With the right approach to color, lighting, and decor, you can completely transform the feel of the room and create a space that feels intentional and thoughtfully designed.
Experiment with Texture and Color
Just as exposed brick can lend a feeling of rustic charm or city style to a room, your new wall covering offers a fresh opportunity to define your space. The material you choose sets the stage. A smooth, plastered wall painted in a soft, neutral hue creates a calm and modern backdrop, while wood paneling can introduce warmth and organic texture. If you opted for stone or porcelain cladding, you can play with a rich variety of tones and patterns to create a chic and inviting interior. Don’t be afraid to go bold with color or choose a material with a unique finish. This wall is your chance to add character and depth to your home.
Highlight Your Wall with Smart Lighting
The right lighting can make all the difference. Instead of relying solely on overhead fixtures, consider how you can use light to accentuate your new wall. Installing track lighting or wall sconces can cast a warm glow, creating shadows and highlighting any texture in the material, whether it’s the subtle lines of shiplap or the unique surface of stone veneer. This technique draws the eye and adds a layer of sophistication to the room. Smart lighting, as part of a larger home remodeling project, can help you create different moods, turning your wall into a dynamic feature that adapts to any occasion.
Add Shelves, Art, and Other Decor
Your new wall is the perfect backdrop for showcasing your personality. Adding shelves or art can enhance its visual appeal, creating a focal point that anchors the room. Consider installing a set of minimalist floating shelves to display curated objects, books, or small plants. Alternatively, a single, large-scale piece of art can make a dramatic statement and tie the room’s color palette together. The clean surface of your new wall, whether it’s drywall or plaster, ensures that your chosen decor will stand out. This is your opportunity to tell a story and make the space uniquely yours.
Related Articles
- Brick Refinishing: Step-by-Step Guide for Interior Walls
- How to Refinish an Interior Brick Wall: A DIY Guide
- Masonry Solutions & Brick Refinishing Guide for NY Homes
- Masonry Solutions & Inspiration for Homes in NY
- Masonry Archives – Gappsi Group
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ever go back to exposed brick if I cover it? This really depends on the method you choose. If you install drywall or wood paneling over the brick, the process is generally reversible, although it will require some work to dismantle the frame and patch any screw holes. However, methods like painting, plastering, or applying a stucco finish are much more permanent. Removing these coatings is an intensive process that can damage the brick surface, so it’s best to consider those options a long-term commitment.
My brick wall feels damp. Is it still okay to cover it? You should never cover a damp brick wall. Doing so will trap the moisture, which can lead to serious problems like mold, mildew, and the eventual breakdown of the brick and mortar. Your first step should be to identify and fix the source of the dampness. This might involve exterior repairs or improving ventilation. It’s wise to consult a professional to diagnose the issue correctly before you proceed with any cosmetic project.
What’s the easiest and most affordable way to update my brick wall? Painting, whitewashing, or applying a limewash finish are by far the most approachable and budget-friendly options. These projects require relatively few materials and can completely change the look and feel of a room in just a weekend. They offer a significant visual impact by brightening the space, all without the cost and complexity of more structural solutions like installing drywall or plaster.
Why can’t I just use regular house paint on my brick wall? Brick is a porous material that needs to breathe, which means it allows small amounts of water vapor to pass through it. Standard interior latex or acrylic paints create a non-breathable film that traps this moisture inside the brick. Over time, this trapped moisture can cause the paint to bubble and peel, and it can even damage the face of the brick itself. Using a breathable masonry paint or limewash ensures the wall stays healthy and your finish lasts.
How do I decide between keeping the brick and covering it? The decision comes down to the brick’s condition and your personal style. If the brick is in good shape and you enjoy its texture and character, keeping it exposed is a great choice. You can always clean it or apply a clear sealant to protect it. However, if the brick is damaged, of poor quality, or simply doesn’t fit the bright, clean aesthetic you want for your home, then covering it is a fantastic way to transform your space and achieve your design goals.
