How-to-Guide: Exposed Brick
What is it about an exposed brick wall that makes us all ooooh and ahhh? Let’s face it if you want to add warmth and character to any space, an exposed brick wall can do the trick. They look great but there are some things you may want to know before you decide to expose brick in your home or purchase a home that has exposed brick.
What’s not to love?
· It makes a great statement- let’s be honest, exposed brick adds drama to any room.
· It’s timeless - whether your style is urban industrial or down-home country - exposed brick works in your space and never goes out of style!
· The texture from brick reflects less light and instantaneously gives any space a warm feeling.
· In most cases it can stand more abuse than most other wall surfaces.
What’s the problem?
1. It takes a lot of work to make brick look finished. In most cases brick walls were not meant to be exposed, so the brick and mortar work may not have that finished looked. When we exposed a brick wall in our 100+ year-old home it needed a ton of work in order to make it “presentable”. (Check out my blog about my own historic renovation.)
2. Exposed brick is porous, which means it will hold water and has a tendency to crumble and flake. It’s require a bit more maintenance than a sheetrock or plastered wall - a good sealant every six months or so can help.
3. Brick is rough, that means dirt is drawn to it, consequently it is not the easiest surface to clean. While it looks great in kitchens it can be near impossible to clean off grease and grime, especially if close to a cooking area.
So do the “pros” outweigh the “cons”? I think it’s a matter of how willing you are to do the maintenance involved?
The good news is there are many awesome brick veneer tile options that will give you the same effect of exposed brick without a lot of the hassle, especially if you don’t live in an historic property like mine. But one thing is for certain, if you commit to brick you won’t be disappointed by the amazing effect it can have on your interiors!
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