Adding a decorative wash over your brick or stone is a great way to completely transform the look of your home. In our guide, we break down the 3 main types of decorative wash. We’ll discuss the differences of each type and how to decide on the best look for your property.
In the design world, these types of washes are often regarded as “Shabby Chic”, “Old World”, or “French Country”, and are considered and upgrade for both existing and new home construction. This lighter and brighter look has become very popular with higher-end new constructions homes.
As a result, the popularity of decorative washes has increased over the last 5 years as people look to update and modernize their existing homes and businesses.
These applications can be applied to exterior brick or stone, and they also can create an interesting focal point on interior masonry, such as fireplaces and accent walls. Another reason property owners opt for a decorative wash is that it’s a cost-effective way to upgrade the look of your property in comparison to the high-cost of changing the masonry and altering the structure.
Whitewash, German Smear, & Slurry
When it comes to decorative wash styles there are differences on how each term is defined, what material are used for each method, and the final look that each achieves. However, when researching online, you’ll find inconsistent information.
This makes it difficult for you to choose the look you desire and clearly communicate that to your contractor. Therefore, let’s go over the three most popular options you’ll want to know about.
Whitewash
Whitewashing is generally the lightest coating of the three decorative wash methods.
The White Wash is achieved with a thinned-out mixture that is “painted” on to the masonry so that the texture of the brick and mortar joints remain fully exposed. This type of coating allows the original colors of the masonry to show through a veil of creamy white giving the home a brightened yet authentic brick look. These thinned mixtures can be made from a variety of materials – some are made with paint, while others are made with lime or mortar mixtures. Furthermore, you can achieve a variety of looks by testing different thicknesses of the coating material.
German Smear
A type of mortar wash, German smear is achieved by tactfully smearing a mixture of masonry cement mortar onto the brick, leaving some of the brick faces exposed. Typically this process is done with white mortar, although for the courageous designer a variety of mortar colors are available, and can create a one-of-a-kind finish. This decorative wash is the most versatile, since you can achieve a variety of looks with the German Smear depending on how it’s applied and the thickness of the coats.
With this decorative wash you can expect a more “textured” look with some thinner and thicker spots. Most noteworthy, you’ll usually only see German Smear on high-end construction and historic properties.
Slurry Wash
Slurry is another type of mortar wash that is done by completely coating the area with a thick layer. Slurry uses the same materials as a German Smear but differs in the application. With a slurry there is full coverage of the masonry producing a full coverage – type look but still allows the brick texture to show through.
Typically, slurries are done with slightly tanner mortar colors. This is an excellent way to achieve the stucco look without the maintenance and cost of traditional stucco.
Each of these mortar wash looks have become increasingly desirable in recent years as a way of giving the home a rustic but modern look.
What decorative wash is right for you?
You may be wondering which decorative wash would best suit you. However, before you dive into choosing what look you like, we recommend a few preliminary steps.
- The first step is to find out if your HOA will allow your home to be altered with this type of style. Many HOAs have strict restrictions on what type of alterations can be done to your property. So before spending the time and energy in researching, have a talk with your HOA to see if it’s allowed. If you are adding a wash to the interior of the home then you don’t have to worry about this step.
- Second, you will want to consider what type of surface you are wanting the wash applied to. The masonry surface, whether it be brick, stone or stucco, needs to be structurally sound and free of any cracks or deterioration. Luckily, any masonry company that would apply the wash should also be able to repair the structure and get it ready for application.
- Lastly, but most importantly, you want to consider your own taste and style. Decorative washes are permanent and are difficult to remove once applied. Make sure you find the style you’ll be happy with for years to come! We recommend looking at a couple of different sites for inspiration. Houzz is a great resource for searching different home improvement projects. Pinterest has a huge database of photos. Just search the different types of washes and save your favorites. Google images can also lead you to some helpful pages or articles.
Decorative Wash FAQs
Our price for applying a decorative wash on the exterior of a home typically ranges from $12,000 to $25,000. This depends greatly on the size of the home and the amount of brick to cover.
For a one-story, 1,800sq ft home with brick on all 4 sides, our roundabout cost would be approximately $12,500.
