The Benefits of Using Mineral Paint on Brick

Proven Performance Backed by Science and History

Brick is a building material known for its strength and timeless beauty. But when it comes time to refresh or protect brick surfaces, the choice of paint makes all the difference. Use the wrong coating, and you risk peeling, trapped moisture, and long-term damage.

That’s where mineral paint stands apart. Unlike conventional acrylic or elastomeric paints, mineral paints are vapor-permeable, UV-stable, and proven to last decades. Let’s take a closer look—backed by perm ratings and real-world case studies—at why mineral paint is the best option for brick.

Understanding Breathability: The Science of Perm Ratings

The ability of a coating to let moisture vapor pass through is measured by its perm rating. Higher numbers mean better breathability. This is critical for brick, which naturally absorbs and releases moisture.

• Acrylic/Latex Paint: Typically 1–5 perms → low permeability. Moisture gets trapped behind the paint film, leading to peeling and freeze-thaw damage.

• Elastomeric Paint: Often less than 1 perm → nearly vapor-proof. While waterproof, it suffocates brick, causing spalling and long-term deterioration.

• Mineral Paint: 70–90+ perms → exceptionally breathable. Allows brick to function naturally without trapping water, while still offering superior durability.

With perm ratings many times higher than acrylic and elastomeric paints, mineral paint is scientifically proven to protect brick without sealing in moisture.

Case Studies: Longevity in Action

Mineral paint isn’t new—it’s been protecting masonry for well over a century. Here are a few examples that showcase its unmatched durability:

1. Wrocław Railway Station, Poland

• First Application: Originally painted with silicate mineral paint in the early 1900s.

• Longevity: Surfaces lasted nearly 80 years before requiring significant repainting.

• Maintenance: When recoated, mineral paint bonded seamlessly with the existing surface.

• Takeaway: Demonstrates that mineral paint can withstand decades of harsh weather and pollution while maintaining color stability.

2. City of Basel, Switzerland

• Scope: Entire districts of historic masonry buildings painted with silicate mineral paint.

• Performance: After 100+ years, many facades remain intact, with only spot maintenance performed.

• Why It Matters: Mineral paint preserved the architectural integrity of historic buildings while avoiding the constant repainting cycle of acrylics.

3. U.S. Residential Projects

• Example: Homes in Chicago and Boston painted with mineral paint in the 1990s.

• Current Status: Still holding strong more than 25 years later, with minimal fading or deterioration—even in freeze-thaw climates.

• Contrast: Nearby homes painted with acrylics required full repainting every 7–10 years.

Why Mineral Paint Outperforms Alternatives

• Acrylic & Latex Paint: Traps moisture (1–5 perms) → leads to peeling, flaking, and brick damage.

• Elastomeric Coatings: Ultra-low perms (<1) → causes spalling and irreversible masonry damage.

• Mineral Paint: High perm rating (70–90+), UV-stable, and bonds to masonry.

Final Thoughts

The data is clear: mineral paint isn’t just a “better” paint—it’s a completely different technology. With perm ratings far higher than synthetic coatings and case studies proving 50–100 years of performance, mineral paint offers peace of mind that your brick will stay beautiful and protected for generations.

Whether you’re restoring a historic landmark or giving your home a fresh look, mineral paint is the choice that blends science, sustainability, and timeless durability.