What Is German Smear?
If you’ve ever admired the romantic charm of a European cottage or the character-rich texture of old-world architecture, chances are you’ve seen a technique called German Smear. This distinctive finish has become a popular favorite among homeowners looking to give their brick homes a fresh, timeless look without covering up the beauty of natural brick.
But what exactly is German Smear, and is it the right choice for your home? Let’s dive in to learn more about this popular brick decorative wash.
German Smear Origins
When you see the term ‘German schmear, ‘ you may be lead to believe that it is something that you can enjoy spread on a bagel, but the truth is it’s an old-fashioned technique — this microtrend has deep roots in Germany and England.
Masons would “smear” cement-based mortar to their brick masonry, as it aged and weathered with time, what was left were sections of the original brick peeking through the application.
Today, the method has been modernized and masons are able to replicate the look by applying mortar onto brick surfaces and then artistically swaying the mortar so a part of the brick is visible through the application.
German Smear vs Other Masonry Applications
Before committing to a style-changing application on your masonry, we advise understanding how a German Smear compares to a limewash, a slurry, and painting bricks.
Limewash: This application is a natural, mineral-based finish made from crushed limestone and water. It penetrates the surface of the brick, creating a soft, matte look. Unlike paint, it allows the masonry to breathe and adds an authentic, aged charm to any surface.
Slurry: This is a thick, mortar-based coating applied over brick to create a smooth, uniform finish. Unlike German Smear or Limewash, it completely covers the brick, giving it a stucco-like appearance while still maintaining durability and weather resistance.
Brick Paint: HGTV popularized painting brick homes and masonry accent walls. In Houston and Dallas, it’s recommended that you avoid painting brick. While it offers a clean, solid-color modern look, chipped paint allows for moisture to enter and remain trapped in the brick, leading to structural damage and a need for frequent repainting.
Each method has its own appeal and can be a DIY project in its own right, we always recommend reaching out to a professional masonry contractor. Proper application ensures that your German smear looks good for years to come.
Why Homeowners Love German Smear
German Smear grows in popularity, especially in cities like Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. About 75% of homes in Texas are made with some type of masonry feature or accent, and a German Smear is the perfect solution for homeowners who want to change the look of their home without painting it. This style gives brick and masonry surfaces a timeless, weathered appearance which fits farmhouse and cottage style aesthetics. It also adds a modern touch to a home’s exterior.
The finish is easy to customize. Homeowners decide how much of the brick shows; they can get a bold or a subtle result. Apart from its visual charm, German Smear needs little upkeep – it requires little to no reapplication or frequent repairs. It adds texture and character that can raise a property’s value. Because it has a mortar base, it lasts a long time – it holds up well to the hot, wet Texas climate.
German Smear Before-And-Afters
See the stunning transformation for yourself! These before-and-after photos showcase how German Smear can breathe new life into brick surfaces—adding character, charm, and timeless appeal to any home. Whether you’re going for subtle elegance or a bold new look, the results speak for themselves.
Maintaining A German Smear
One of the biggest advantages of a German Smear finish is its low maintenance. To keep it looking fresh, just rinse it with water or wipe it down occasionally to clear away dust and debris.
One of the benefits of mortar-based finishes is that they preserve the natural breathability of brick. The porous nature of mortar allows moisture to escape, helping the structure stay dry and healthy over time.
That’s all it takes—unlike paint, which can peel or require frequent touch-ups, German Smear offers a long-lasting, durable finish that stands the test of time.
About Brick Restoration, Inc.
We are the highest rated full-service masonry repair and installation contractor serving the Greater Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth areas.
Known for our expert workmanship and outstanding results, our extensively trained masons and patented technology separates us from other masonry contractors. With over 30 years in business, our masonry team and specialists are experts at enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
Schedule your free estimate today to meet with one of our Restoration Specialists.
