Covering an exterior brick wall can enhance its appearance, add protection, and give your space a unique touch. 

How to cover a brick wall outside?

To cover an exterior brick wall, consider these options:

1. Paint: Provides a fresh look and protection.

2. Siding: Install vinyl or wood siding for a new appearance.

3. Climbing Plants: Use ivy or other climbers for a natural look.

4. Stucco: Apply stucco for a textured finish.

5. Printed Brick Wall Vinyl: Use a printed brick wall vinyl for a customised design. 

6. Trellis with Plants: Add a trellis and plants or decorative panels for aesthetics and functionality.

Let’s explore each of these options, the pros and cons of each, and how to implement them. 

1. Paint: A Fresh Look and Protection for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Painting your brick wall is a simple and cost-effective way to give it a fresh look and additional protection. Choose high-quality exterior paint designed for masonry to ensure durability and resistance to weather conditions.

Steps:

1. Clean the brick thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.

2. Apply a primer to ensure the paint adheres well.

3. Paint the brick with your chosen colour, using a roller for large areas and a brush for edges and details.

4. Apply a second coat if necessary for even coverage.

Benefits:

• Easy and affordable

• Wide range of colours and finishes

• Protects brick from the elements

Considerations:

• Requires maintenance and touch-ups over time

• Can obscure the natural texture of the brick

How-to Guides and Tutorials

• Homebuilding & Renovating: Best Masonry Paint for Brick Walls: Comprehensive guide on choosing the best masonry paint.
• Painters World: How to Paint Exterior Brick: Step-by-step tutorial on painting brick walls.
• The Better Buy: Best Masonry Paint for Brick and Render: Reviews and recommendations for masonry paints.

2. Siding: A Stylish Transformation for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Installing siding over a brick wall can completely transform its appearance. Vinyl and wood are popular choices, each offering different aesthetic and functional benefits.

Steps:

1. Install furring strips to create a level surface if the brick is uneven.

2. Attach a moisture barrier to protect against water damage.

3. Install the siding panels according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring they are securely fastened.

Benefits:

• Provides a new look with various styles and colors

• Adds an extra layer of insulation

• Low maintenance, especially with vinyl

Considerations:

• Higher initial cost compared to painting

• Professional installation may be required

3. Climbing Plants: Natural Beauty for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Using climbing plants like ivy can create a natural, lush appearance on your brick wall. This method is eco-friendly and can improve the microclimate around your home.

Steps:

1. Choose appropriate climbing plants for your climate and wall conditions.

2. Install trellises or supports if necessary to guide plant growth.

3. Plant the climbers at the base of the wall and water them regularly until established.

Benefits:

• Enhances the natural beauty of the space

• Provides additional insulation and cooling

• Environmentally friendly

Considerations:

• Requires regular maintenance and pruning

• Potential damage to brick and mortar over time

4. Stucco: A Textured Finish for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Applying stucco over brick creates a textured and durable finish. This method can be used to achieve various looks, from smooth to rough textures.

Steps:

1. Clean the brick surface thoroughly.

2. Apply a bonding agent to help the stucco adhere to the brick.

3. Apply a base coat of stucco and let it cure.

4. Apply the final coat, smoothing or texturing it as desired.

Benefits:

• Durable and weather-resistant

• Variety of textures and finishes available

• Can hide imperfections in the brick

Considerations:

• Professional application is often recommended

• Can be more expensive than other options

5. Printed Brick Wall Vinyl: Custom Designs for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Our printed brick wall vinyl is a modern solution that offers a customised design for your brick wall. This option allows for a variety of patterns and images, providing a unique and personalised look.

Steps:

1. Clean the brick surface to ensure proper adhesion.

2. Measure and cut the vinyl to fit the wall dimensions.

3. Apply the vinyl carefully, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles.

4. Trim excess vinyl for a neat finish.

Benefits:

• Customisable with various designs and patterns

• Easy to install and remove

• Protects the brick from weather damage

Considerations:

• May not be as durable as other coverings

• Needs proper installation to avoid peeling

For more information, learn more about printed brick wall vinyl.

6. Trellis with Plants: Aesthetic and Functional Cover for Your Brick Wall

Overview: Installing a trellis with plants or decorative panels can add both aesthetic appeal and functionality to your brick wall. This method allows for seasonal changes and a dynamic look.

Steps:

1. Choose a trellis design that complements your space.

2. Secure the trellis to the wall using appropriate fasteners.

3. Plant climbing or trailing plants at the base of the trellis.

4. Train the plants to grow along the trellis, trimming as needed.

Benefits:

• Adds visual interest and variety

• Provides support for plants

• Easy to change and update with new plants or panels

Considerations:

• Requires regular maintenance of plants

• May need occasional repairs to the trellis

By carefully considering each of these options, you can find the best method to cover your exterior brick wall, enhancing both its appearance and functionality.

Inspirational Ideas and Case Studies

• Houzz: Exterior Brick Wall Transformations: Gallery of before-and-after images showing various methods to cover brick walls.
• Pinterest: Brick Wall Covering Ideas: Board filled with creative and inspiring ideas for covering brick walls.