Reader support keeps this site open, opinionated, and happily independent. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best Brick Paint | Brick Paint That Seals, Whitens & Protects

Bare brick walls and fireplaces bring texture and warmth to a home, but they also bring an annoying side effect that drives homeowners crazy: a fine, gritty dust that settles on floors, shelves, and furniture no matter how often you clean. The wrong paint or sealer leaves your masonry looking plastic, trapping moisture, or failing to stop the crumbling mortar that keeps your brickwork messy.

I’m Rikta — the co-founder and writer behind FitlyFast. I’ve spent over a decade analyzing construction-grade coatings, masonry sealers, and specialty paints to separate the formulations that actually penetrate porous brick from those that just sit on the surface and flake off.

This guide breaks down the best brick paint options for sealing interior brick dust, waterproofing exterior walls, and giving your fireplace a fresh makeover without losing its natural character.

How To Choose The Best Brick Paint

Selecting the right brick paint comes down to understanding your brick’s specific problem. Interior fireplaces shed mortar dust and need a low-odor sealer that penetrates without changing the look. Exterior walls face rain, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV exposure. Your color and finish preference will further narrow the field.

Identify Your Primary Goal: Seal or Transform

A clear penetrating sealer is your go-to formula if you want to stop brick dust or waterproof masonry without changing the color or texture. These silane-siloxane or acrylic-based liquids soak into the pores and bond from within. If you want to update the look of old red brick, you need an opaque paint or whitewash that sits on the surface. The trade-off is that solid paints can peel over time if moisture gets trapped behind them, while penetrating sealers are invisible.

Check the Base and VOC Levels

Water-based acrylic paints and sealers dominate the premium and mid-range tiers for good reason. They dry fast, clean up with soap and water, and emit far fewer fumes than oil-based or solvent-based alternatives. This matters especially for interior applications like fireplaces and basement walls where ventilation is limited. Look for low-VOC or zero-VOC claims on the label if indoor air quality is a priority.

Match the Finish to Your Surface Condition

Satin and semi-gloss finishes add a subtle sheen that highlights brick texture and makes cleaning easier. Matte or flat finishes hide imperfections better but attract dirt more easily. For old, crumbling brick and mortar, a satin or clear sealer is often the safest choice because it adds a protective layer without emphasizing cracks. On well-maintained exterior walls, a semi-gloss paint provides superior dirt resistance and weather protection.

Quick Comparison

On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.

Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
MasonryDefender Brick Sealer Clear Sealer Interior brick dust sealing Water-based acrylic, 128 fl oz Amazon
Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint Fireplace color update Water-based acrylic, 31 fl oz Amazon
MasonryDefender All Purpose Sealer Penetrating Sealer Outdoor waterproofing Silane-siloxane, 128 fl oz Amazon
Glidden Total Exterior (Cinnamon Spice) Exterior Paint Colored outdoor brick 400 sq ft coverage, semi-gloss Amazon
Glidden Total Exterior (Black Magic) Exterior Paint Dark color exterior brick 400 sq ft coverage, satin Amazon
INSL-X WaterBlock Waterproof Paint Wet basement walls Waterproof, 12 psi hydrostatic Amazon
Brick-Anew All-in-One Kit Paint Kit Realistic brick makeover 13-piece set, 60 sq ft Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. MasonryDefender Brick Sealer Satin Sheen

Clear AcrylicDust Sealing

This water-based acrylic sealer is the most effective solution I’ve found for stopping the relentless brick dust that plagues older homes. It penetrates porous brick and mortar without creating a thick plastic layer, which means the natural texture of your masonry stays intact. Multiple customer reports confirm that a single coat eliminates dust fall from walls built in the 1800s and early 1900s, a claim that few competitors can back up with real-world evidence.

The low-odor formula makes it safe for indoor use, and the clear satin sheen adds just enough definition to highlight the brick’s character without looking glossy or artificial. Application is straightforward with a brush, roller, or sprayer, and cleanup requires nothing more than soap and water. The coverage range of 80 to 150 square feet per gallon gives you flexibility depending on how porous your specific brick is.

Several users noted that the finish lands closer to eggshell than satin on particularly dry or old brick, but they still rated the dust-sealing performance as excellent. For homeowners who want to preserve the original look of their brick while solving the dust problem permanently, this is the clear choice.

Why it’s great

  • Low-odor water-based formulation safe for living spaces
  • One coat stops brick dust from century-old walls
  • Does not alter the natural appearance of brick

Good to know

  • Satin sheen may appear as eggshell on very porous brick
  • Coverage varies significantly with brick texture
Whitewash Pick

2. Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint

DilutableLow VOC

Giani’s whitewash kit is designed specifically for indoor brick fireplaces, offering a water-based acrylic formula that delivers that sought-after limewash look without the high pH and complicated mixing of traditional limewash. The paint must be diluted with water according to the included instructions to achieve the full 200 square feet of coverage, and the water-to-paint ratio controls the opacity level. A 2:1 water-to-paint ratio produces a semi-transparent whitewash, while a heavier paint concentration yields a more solid white finish.

DIY users consistently report excellent results on red brick fireplaces, noting that the product spreads easily with a brush and allows for correction with a wet cloth or sponge during application. The low-VOC, low-odor properties make it suitable for interior work without requiring extensive ventilation.

Some users wished for more detailed guidance on mixing ratios for different brick textures. The manufacturer recommends a brush over a roller for better penetration into mortar joints and less wasted paint, which is good advice for first-timers. If you want to update a dated brick fireplace without a full renovation, this kit delivers a fresh look in an afternoon.

Why it’s great

  • Adjustable opacity through water dilution ratio
  • Low odor and safe for indoor fireplace projects
  • Cleanup is simple with soap and water

Good to know

  • Must be diluted to achieve advertised coverage
  • Not recommended for high-moisture exterior brick
Exterior Defender

3. MasonryDefender All Purpose Brick Stone & Concrete Sealer

Silane-SiloxaneClear Penetrating

This penetrating sealer uses silane-siloxane chemistry to create a deep hydrophobic barrier inside the brick rather than on top of it. That distinction is critical for outdoor surfaces like patios, walkways, and retaining walls because the sealer won’t peel, yellow, or trap moisture. The clear finish keeps the brick’s natural color and texture completely unchanged, which matters for homeowners who want water protection without altering the aesthetic.

Application through a pump-up garden sprayer is the most efficient method, and the product soaks in visibly as it is applied. Testimonials confirm that sealed brick surfaces on porches and patios produce strong water beading and prevent freeze-thaw damage during winter months. One gallon covers 90 to 150 square feet, making it suitable for medium-to-large exterior projects. The product also works on concrete, stone, limestone, and granite, adding versatility if you have mixed masonry surfaces.

The main trade-off is that this is not a paint. It will not change the color of your brick or cover stains. If your goal is purely waterproofing and you want the brick to look exactly as it does naturally, this sealer performs exceptionally well. A few users noted uncertainty about longevity beyond a few years, but the majority report effective performance through multiple seasons.

Why it’s great

  • Penetrates deep into brick for invisible protection
  • Prevents freeze-thaw damage on exterior surfaces
  • Easy spray-on application with garden sprayer

Good to know

  • Does not change the color or hide stains
  • Long-term durability beyond 4-5 years is unreported
Semi-Gloss Shield

4. Glidden Total Exterior Paint & Primer (Cinnamon Spice)

Paint + Primer400 sq ft

The Glidden Total Exterior line is a paint-and-primer-in-one system designed for wood, brick, masonry, and concrete, making it a strong contender for homeowners who want to change the color of exterior brick. The Cinnamon Spice shade delivers a warm orange-brown tone that complements landscaping and brick accents, and the semi-gloss finish provides excellent dirt resistance and washability. Coverage is rated at up to 400 square feet per gallon, which is generous for a pigmented exterior coating.

Users consistently rate the paint’s one-coat coverage as outstanding, with particular praise for its smooth application and fast dry time. The product is formulated to resist fading, cracking, and peeling, and it can be applied in temperatures as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit, extending the working season into cooler months. Stirring thoroughly and preparing the surface properly are essential for achieving the advertised durability.

Some customers experienced shipping delays and slow fulfillment, which appears to be a fulfillment issue rather than a product quality issue. Ordering ahead of your project start date is advisable. For a pigmented paint that bonds well to brick and stands up to weather, this Glidden formula gives you professional-grade results at a reasonable investment.

Why it’s great

  • Excellent one-coat coverage on properly prepared brick
  • Durable semi-gloss finish resists dirt and weather
  • Wide temperature application range

Good to know

  • Shipping delays reported by multiple buyers
  • Requires thorough surface prep for best adhesion
Dark Tone Pick

5. Glidden Total Exterior Paint & Primer (Black Magic)

Satin FinishOne-Coat Hide

The Black Magic variant of the Glidden Total Exterior line offers a deep, rich black with a satin finish that provides a more subdued sheen compared to the semi-gloss Cinnamon Spice. This makes it an excellent choice for exterior brick features where you want a dramatic, modern look without a high-shine reflection. The paint goes on gray straight from the can and dries to its true black color, which is a distinctive characteristic that some users find surprising if they are not expecting the color shift.

Coverage and adhesion performance mirror the other Glidden Total Exterior paints, with users noting excellent one-coat coverage on previously painted surfaces and bare shingles. The paint is compatible with brick, masonry, concrete, wood, and weathered aluminum, giving you flexibility for mixed-material projects. The 4-hour dry time is standard for exterior acrylic paints and means you can often apply two coats in a single day if needed.

A small number of customers received paint that had not been tinted correctly, which is a known quality-control risk with online paint orders. Ordering early and checking the color before starting your project minimizes the risk of delays. For homeowners set on a dramatic black brick accent wall or exterior feature, this paint performs reliably when properly prepared.

Why it’s great

  • Deep black color with a subtle satin sheen
  • Excellent one-coat coverage on most surfaces
  • Compatible with multiple substrate types

Good to know

  • Spray tinting errors have been reported
  • Color goes on gray and dries black
Basement Barrier

6. INSL-X WaterBlock Acrylic Masonry Waterproofer Paint

Hydrostatic ShieldWhite Semi-Gloss

The INSL-X WaterBlock is a specialized waterproofing paint designed for vertical masonry surfaces that face hydrostatic pressure from groundwater. It is rated to withstand up to 12 psi of positive water pressure, which translates to a significant barrier against basement seepage through brick, cinder block, concrete, and stucco. The white semi-gloss finish brightens dark basement walls while forming a tough, washable surface that resists alkali attack up to pH 13.

Real-world results from customers are compelling: multiple users report complete resolution of long-standing basement water leaks after two coats of this paint. The included can opener and stir stick are small but appreciated conveniences. Application is straightforward with a brush or roller, and the paint dries fast enough to allow a second coat within a few hours. Coverage is rated at 75 to 125 square feet per gallon, which is lower than standard exterior paints due to the thicker, more viscous formulation needed for waterproofing performance.

The main limitation is that this is a paint, not a penetrating sealer, so it will change the appearance of your brick or block to a white semi-gloss finish. It is also restricted to temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during application. For homeowners dealing with wet basement walls where a color change is acceptable, this product delivers reliable long-term leak protection.

Why it’s great

  • Withstands 12 psi hydrostatic pressure
  • Proven to stop active basement water leaks
  • High alkali resistance for concrete and mortar

Good to know

  • Changes brick appearance to white semi-gloss
  • Narrower temperature application window
Fireplace Makeover

7. Brick-Anew All-in-One Brick Fireplace Paint Kit (Twilight Taupe)

13-Piece SystemMatte Realistic Finish

The Brick-Anew kit is a complete system designed to give painted or bare brick a realistic, multi-dimensional finish that mimics natural stone or tumbled marble rather than flat, opaque paint. The Twilight Taupe color blends taupe, tan, beige, and cream tones that work well with medium-colored decor palettes. The kit includes two base coat sealers, four undertone colors, a paint tray, two rollers, a cleaning sponge, and masking tape, which means you have everything you need in one box except a brush for the mortar joints.

The process is more involved than a simple paint-and-roller project. You apply a base coat sealer, then layer and blend the undertone colors to create depth and variation across the brick faces. Users emphasize “trusting the process” because the finish looks patchy until the final blending step. The matte finish preserves the rough texture of brick, and the result is a natural-looking transformation rather than a flat painted surface. The kit covers approximately 60 square feet, so larger fireplaces may require additional base coat sealers.

DIYers report spending several hours on application, but the reviews are overwhelmingly positive regarding the final appearance. The system is designed for both previously painted and bare brick, which adds flexibility. If you hate the look of painted brick that feels fake or plastic, this kit gives you a convincing stone-like finish that keeps the tactile character of your fireplace intact.

Why it’s great

  • Multi-tonal finish looks like natural stone
  • Complete kit with all tools included
  • Works on previously painted or bare brick

Good to know

  • Labor-intensive process takes several hours
  • Coverage limited to 60 sq ft per kit

FAQ

Will clear brick sealer stop dust from old brick walls?
Yes. A water-based acrylic clear sealer like the MasonryDefender Brick Sealer penetrates the porous surface and binds loose particles together, eliminating the dust that settles on floors. Most users report a single coat stops dust from walls built in the 1800s and early 1900s. The finish remains clear, so the brick looks unchanged.
Can I use exterior brick paint on an indoor fireplace?
You can, but it is not the best choice. Exterior paints are formulated to withstand UV exposure and temperature swings, which an indoor fireplace does not experience. They also tend to have higher VOC levels. A water-based interior acrylic paint or a dedicated fireplace paint kit like the Giani Whitewash is safer for indoor air quality and easier to work with in a living space.
How long does brick paint take to fully cure before furniture can go back?
Water-based acrylic brick paints typically dry to the touch within one hour and allow for a second coat within four hours. Full cure to maximum hardness occurs after 24 hours. For heavy furniture placed against freshly painted brick, waiting at least 24 to 48 hours is recommended to prevent sticking or marking.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most users, the best brick paint winner is the MasonryDefender Brick Sealer because it stops interior brick dust without altering the natural look of your masonry, and its low-odor water-based formula makes it safe for living areas. If you want to whitewash a dated fireplace, grab the Giani Brick Transformations for an adjustable, fresh look. And for exterior waterproofing, nothing beats the MasonryDefender All Purpose Sealer for invisible, deep-penetrating protection against moisture and freeze-thaw damage.