How To Paint Fletton Brick

Paint Fletton brick to transform the appearance of a property and add a layer of protection, but what’s the best way to get started? 

Fletton bricks, with their unique composition and widespread use in the UK, can benefit immensely from being painted. However, they are difficult for most masonry paints to adhere to. Achieving a professional, lasting finish requires careful preparation and product selection. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage to paint Fletton brick, from understanding its properties to final touches that are both durability and appealing. Let’s get to it!

What Are Fletton Bricks?

Fletton bricks, widely recognised as London bricks, are iconic in the UK for their unique manufacturing process and robust qualities. These bricks take their name from Fletton, a village near Peterborough, where abundant clay deposits rich in carbonaceous material were discovered. This natural carbon content, combined with specific production methods, gives Fletton bricks a distinctive edge. During firing, the carbon in the clay combusts, allowing the bricks to undergo a “self-firing” process. This process is resource-efficient, significantly reducing the amount of additional fuel required during production.

The durability and affordability of Fletton bricks have made them a preferred choice in the construction industry, particularly for large-scale projects. Since their inception, they have become integral to British architecture, especially during the reconstruction era following World War II. The wide usage of Fletton bricks in everything from modest residential homes to sprawling commercial complexes speaks to their cost-effectiveness and reliability. This affordability, combined with ease of manufacturing, helped meet the urgent demand for durable building materials during Britain’s post-war construction boom, ensuring their legacy as a mainstay in the country’s built landscape. Today, Fletton bricks are celebrated for their adaptability in both modern and historic buildings, contributing to their ongoing popularity in new developments and restorations alike.

Key Properties of Fletton Bricks

Fletton bricks offer an exceptional combination of affordability, practicality, and aesthetics that make them a valuable choice for a wide variety of building projects. These properties include:

Durability

One of the defining features of Fletton bricks is their resilience. Designed to withstand the challenges of British weather, these bricks endure rain, frost, and intense sunlight without deteriorating quickly. Their natural density also provides excellent load-bearing qualities, making them ideal for walls and structural elements that require extra strength.

Affordability

The production efficiency of Fletton bricks, thanks to their self-firing nature, has kept manufacturing costs lower than many other brick types. Because the clay’s carbon content fuels much of the firing process, less external fuel is required, which translates to savings for both manufacturers and consumers. This cost-effectiveness has made Fletton bricks a go-to option for projects that require high quantities without compromising quality.

Versatile Appearance

Fletton bricks come in various shades, including soft reds, warm pinks, and rustic browns, that adapt well to different architectural styles. Whether enhancing a period property or adding texture to a contemporary design, Fletton bricks can be incorporated into diverse aesthetic schemes. Their subtle textural variations and earthy tones provide an understated charm that makes them suitable for a range of applications.

In addition to these properties, Fletton bricks’ consistent dimensions and structural integrity make them easy to work with, supporting a variety of masonry techniques. This versatility ensures they can be integrated into projects that prioritise both function and design.

Why Choose to Paint Fletton Brick?

While Fletton bricks are inherently durable and appealing, they have a porous structure that can lead to issues over time if left unsealed. For example, the brick’s open pores allow moisture to enter, which could accumulate and eventually cause cracking or flaking as temperatures fluctuate. Painting Fletton brick helps to seal this porous surface, offering a barrier that prevents water penetration and protects the structure against weathering.

Beyond protection, painting Fletton brick allows homeowners to elevate the look of their brickwork, adding a modern touch to older properties. As design trends evolve, painting offers a quick way to refresh a property’s look. For instance, a traditional red-brick facade can be transformed with an anthracite grey or cream colour without compromising the structural integrity of the brick. This flexibility makes painting an excellent choice for those looking to personalise their space.

Additionally, painted bricks are easier to clean and maintain. Unpainted brick can absorb stains, but a painted surface resists dirt and grime, making it easy to keep exterior walls looking polished. Whether for aesthetics, protection, or ease of maintenance, painting Fletton brick offers substantial benefits, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners and property developers alike.

How to Paint Fletton Brick: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Surface Preparation

Preparation is essential for achieving a long-lasting, professional finish on Fletton brick. Thorough surface cleaning and inspection ensure the paint will adhere well and perform as expected.

Cleaning the Brick

Begin by cleaning the brickwork, using a stiff-bristled brush to remove dust, dirt, and loose material. Ensure the surface is completely dry, as moisture can prevent paint from adhering properly. For best results, the brick’s moisture content should not exceed 18%. If there’s visible mould or mildew, treat it with a specialised cleaner such as Zinsser Mould Killer & Remover. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines here will ensure thorough treatment, which helps the paint last longer and prevents future organic growth.

Repairing and Repointing

Inspect the brickwork for any cracks, damaged areas, or loose mortar. These should be repaired before painting. Unstable pointing should be removed and replaced with a suitable cement mix, which should be left to cure fully. Proper repair prevents moisture penetration and ensures that the paint will adhere smoothly and last longer.

Step 2: Patch Priming

With the brick surface prepared, the next step is to apply a patch primer to areas where there are bare bricks or repaired sections. Use Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer for this purpose, applying it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow at least an hour of drying time before proceeding with additional priming.

Why Patch Priming Matters

Patch priming ensures that repaired or patched areas won’t absorb more paint than surrounding surfaces. This step prevents blotchiness and helps the final paint layer go on evenly, giving a smoother, more uniform appearance.

Step 3: Full Priming

Once patch priming is complete, it’s time to apply a full coat of primer to the entire surface. For Fletton brick, Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is an excellent choice due to its high adhesion and durability. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply a coat of primer and allow at least one hour of drying time under normal conditions. Priming the full surface helps the paint adhere better and creates a consistent base, crucial for an even finish.

Step 4: Painting and Decoration

After priming, your Fletton brick is ready for painting. Opt for Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Satin or Gloss as a topcoat, available in over 4,100 colours across the RAL, NCS, and BS systems. This allows you to select a shade that perfectly matches your design vision.

 

Maintaining Painted Fletton Brick

Once painted, your Fletton brick will require minimal maintenance. Painted surfaces are easier to clean than unpainted brick, needing only occasional washing to remove dirt or debris. A mild soap solution and a soft brush should suffice for most cleaning needs. To keep your painted brickwork looking fresh, check periodically for peeling or chipping paint, especially on edges and corners where wear occurs faster.

Final Thoughts on How to Paint Fletton Brick

Painting Fletton brick can revitalise the look of your property while offering protection against the elements. By following the steps outlined here – from careful preparation and priming to choosing the right paint and finish – you can achieve a polished, professional result that enhances your home’s appeal, as well as its durability.

If you require more advice on painting over fletton brick surfaces, give our technical team a call on 0113 2455450 (option 2) or send a message to [email protected].

Originally published on 15th November 2019; updated on 31st October 2024