When I first started looking at paint colors for brick, I was surprised by how tricky it was to get it right.
A color that looked perfect in the store suddenly felt too bright or dull once it hit real sunlight. If you’ve ever stood in front of paint swatches wondering which one will make your home look warm and balanced, I get it.
The right exterior brick paint color ideas does more than change appearance; it sets the whole mood of your home.
In the next few minutes, you’ll find ideas that actually work in natural light, including color pairings for red brick and charcoal trim that make your exterior feel balanced and complete.
Trending Exterior Brick Paint Color Ideas for Every Home Style
Find fresh, modern, and classic shades for painted brick exteriors, complete with real paint names and ready-to-use combinations.
Classic Whites and Off-Whites
1. Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW 7008
Undertone: Warm cream
LRV: 82
Pairs With: Black shutters, cedar doors, dark roofs
Alabaster brings soft warmth to brick exteriors, keeping them bright without glare. It reflects light gently, adds balance to shaded areas, and highlights architectural details. Perfect for farmhouse or transitional homes that need a cozy but clean appearance.
2. Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
Undertone: Warm gray
LRV: 85
Pairs With: Green landscaping, stone accents, gray roofs
White Dove’s creamy tone softens sharp edges and brightens without harshness. It works beautifully on older or traditional homes, creating a gentle, timeless contrast. A go-to shade for those wanting light that feels natural and welcoming.
3. Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW 7005
Undertone: Neutral warm
LRV: 84
Pairs With: Charcoal trim, bronze lighting, natural wood doors
Pure White offers crisp brightness while keeping a subtle warmth that flatters brick. It adapts well to sunlight, staying even-toned throughout the day. A dependable choice for modern or transitional homes seeking a clean, polished finish.
4. Behr Whisper White HDC-MD-08
Undertone: Neutral soft white
LRV: 83
Pairs With: Muted greens, stone walkways, light trim
Whisper White gives a balanced brightness that never feels stark. It blends seamlessly with both contemporary and traditional designs, improving texture and warmth on brick walls. Ideal for homeowners who want a calm, neutral backdrop.
5. Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65
Undertone: True neutral
LRV: 90
Pairs With: Black trim, muted greens, or gray shutters
Chantilly Lace is crisp, pure, and light-reflective, perfect for creating visual spaciousness. It adds fresh contrast to darker details and works beautifully in coastal or modern settings. Great for those who prefer a clean, airy finish.
6. Sherwin-Williams Snowbound SW 7004
Undertone: Warm white
LRV: 83
Pairs With: Natural stone, soft gray roofs, muted door tones
Snowbound keeps exteriors soft and cohesive. Its warmth prevents the white from feeling cold, making it ideal for homes surrounded by greenery or neutral landscapes. A steady choice that stays elegant year-round.
Warm Earthy Neutrals (Taupe, Brown, Muted Greens)
7. Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036
Undertone: Warm greige
LRV: 58
Pairs With: Cream trim, stone accents, tan roofing
Accessible Beige gives brick a soft, cohesive warmth that feels natural in sunlight or shade. Its greige balance keeps exteriors relaxed and adaptable to any home style. Ideal for traditional homes needing warmth without heaviness.
8. Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
Undertone: Taupe-gray
LRV: 55
Pairs With: White trim, black gutters, wooden accents
Revere Pewter blends warm and cool tones for a subtle, classic exterior. It softens brick texture while keeping a calm, grounded look. A go-to neutral for classic homes that need balance between warmth and structure.
9. Behr Toasty Gray N320-2
Undertone: Warm brown-gray
LRV: 60
Pairs With: Tan trim, natural stone, wood shutters
Toasty Gray brings a friendly warmth to brick, adding depth without darkness. It complements both modern and traditional designs, blending seamlessly with natural surroundings. Consistent across lighting, it’s dependable and easy to style.
10. Sherwin-Williams Shiitake SW 9173
Undertone: Taupe-brown
LRV: 51
Pairs With: Cream trim, wood accents, green landscaping
Shiitake delivers a grounded, cozy tone that enhances red or brown brick beautifully. Its earthy warmth works well with natural materials and shaded facades. A stable, organic color that stays consistent through every season.
11. Benjamin Moore Grant Beige HC-83
Undertone: Neutral beige
LRV: 56
Pairs With: Off-white trim, wood doors, gray roofs
Grant Beige adds lightness and balance to brick homes without losing warmth. Its neutral base works across all lighting and climates, keeping exteriors soft and unified. Perfect as a main color or trim to tone down darker brick tones naturally.
12. Behr Muted Sage N350-5
Undertone: Green-gray
LRV: 45
Pairs With: Cream trim, stone paths, black doors
Muted Sage brings an earthy calm to brick exteriors, blending easily with gardens and natural surroundings. Its soft green-gray tone feels classic yet fresh, adding subtle color without heaviness. Ideal for homes that connect visually with outdoor landscapes.
Cool Modern Grays and Charcoal
Cool grays and charcoals give brick homes a sleek, contemporary style. These shades contrast well with white trim or wood accents for added depth.
13. Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray SW 7015
Undertone: Soft, warm gray
LRV: 58
Pairs With: White trim, black doors, dark roofs
Repose Gray adds calm structure to brick without feeling flat. Its slight warmth keeps the exterior approachable while offering a clean, modern finish that looks consistent in all lighting.
14. Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray HC-169
Undertone: Cool blue-gray
LRV: 48
Pairs With: Crisp white trim, slate roofs, navy accents
Coventry Gray provides a refined mid-tone balance. It highlights brick texture while staying sophisticated and steady in outdoor light, perfect for a subtle yet defined exterior.
15. Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn SW 7674
Undertone: Deep charcoal
LRV: 10
Pairs With: Light brick, white trim, natural wood doors
Peppercorn delivers bold contrast and modern dimension. It defines architectural details sharply and maintains richness even under strong sunlight, giving brick homes a strong, polished appearance.
16. Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray HC-167
Undertone: Muted neutral gray
LRV: 25
Pairs With: Cream trim, wood shutters, stone bases
Amherst Gray adds depth and balance to brick exteriors. Its cool neutrality grounds the structure, making homes appear solid and cohesive. Works well for both classic and modern styles.
17. Behr Graphic Charcoal N500-6
Undertone: Neutral deep gray
LRV: 14
Pairs With: White trim, metal accents, cedar doors
Graphic Charcoal introduces bold contrast that elevates modern brick designs. It delivers crisp definition without feeling harsh, offering a stable, contemporary base that stands out in any setting.
18. Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
Undertone: Warm black-gray
LRV: 6
Pairs With: Light brick, warm wood, stone accents
Iron Ore provides a striking contrast and architectural definition. Its near-black tone adds drama while staying soft under sunlight. Perfect for homeowners wanting bold sophistication that still feels balanced.
Bold Accent Colors (Burgundy, Navy, Sea Green)
Bold colors make a statement on brick exteriors. Burgundy, navy, and sea green work as whole-house colors or striking accents on trim and doors.
19. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy HC-154
Undertone: Cool blue-gray
LRV: 6
Pairs With: White trim, gray roofs, wood doors
Hale Navy gives brick exteriors a timeless, polished depth. Its cool undertone keeps the color crisp, while rich saturation adds contrast against lighter materials. Perfect for classic or coastal homes wanting bold definition without harshness.
20. Sherwin-Williams Naval SW 6244
Undertone: Deep navy blue
LRV: 4
Pairs With: White trim, stone accents, black gutters
Naval offers a sophisticated navy that stands out cleanly on brick. Its dark base adds structure, while soft undertones keep it versatile. A strong, balanced option for homeowners seeking a bold yet refined exterior.
21. Behr Dark Crimson M140-7
Undertone: Warm red
LRV: 8
Pairs With: Cream trim, white shutters, gray roofing
Dark Crimson brings powerful warmth to brick facades. It adds character without overwhelming, especially when used on doors or shutters. Works beautifully for traditional homes seeking energy and depth in their color palette.
22. Sherwin-Williams Rookwood Red SW 2802
Undertone: Deep brick-red
LRV: 12
Pairs With: Cream trim, muted gray, black accents
Rookwood Red delivers rich color inspired by historic architecture. It adds visual depth and timeless appeal, grounding brick homes naturally. A perfect match for classic designs needing warmth with sophistication.
23. Benjamin Moore Narragansett Green HC-157
Undertone: Blue-green
LRV: 13
Pairs With: Off-white trim, taupe shutters, dark roofs
Narragansett Green blends bold color with a natural tone. The blue-green mix keeps it earthy yet refined, pairing beautifully with neutral trim. Ideal for homeowners wanting contrast with subtle outdoor harmony.
24. Sherwin-Williams Coastal Plain SW 6192
Undertone: Muted sea green
LRV: 37
Pairs With: Warm white trim, tan roofs, natural wood
Coastal Plain offers a soft, nature-inspired green that feels calm and uplifting. Its muted base remains consistent throughout the day, creating a gentle yet distinct brick exterior.
Red Brick House Trim Colors
Choosing the right trim color can completely change how a red brick house feels from the street. Since red brick already has a lot of warmth and texture, your trim shade should create contrast without clashing or dulling its natural tone.
Best Trim Options:
- Crisp White or Off-White: Brightens the brick and gives a timeless, clean finish.
- Greige or Taupe: Softens strong red undertones while keeping the look calm and balanced.
- Muted Green: Connects beautifully with natural surroundings, giving a relaxed, earthy feel.
- Charcoal or Black: Adds modern structure and makes architectural lines stand out sharply.
A Red Brick House with Charcoal Trim is one of the most balanced and modern combinations. The dark gray trim frames windows and doors neatly, toning down the brick’s warmth while adding depth.
It also complements natural materials like wood doors, slate roofs, and olive or navy accents, keeping the overall exterior bold but cohesive.
Sample Palettes:
- Red brick with off-white trim and a black door
- Red brick with greige trim and a wood door
- Red brick with charcoal trim and a sage or navy door
Each combination enhances the natural warmth of red brick while maintaining a polished, well-balanced appearance.
Front Door Colors for Painted Brick
Your front door is the final touch that ties your entire brick color palette together, adding personality and balance to the exterior.
- Black or Charcoal: Clean, timeless choices that add crisp contrast and match most trim or roof colors.
- Olive or Moss Green: Earthy tones that blend beautifully with landscaping and soften red or white brick exteriors.
- Navy Blue: A classic color that feels bold but polished, ideal for both modern and traditional homes.
- Natural Wood: Adds warmth and texture, complementing neutral paint colors while keeping an organic, welcoming appearance.
- Off-White or Beige: Light shades that contrast with darker brick or charcoal trim for a bright, balanced front entry.
Two-Tone Combinations (Brick + Trim Color Palettes)
Two-tone designs give brick exteriors depth. Pair one paint color for the brick with a contrasting trim shade for a polished, balanced, and custom appearance.
1. White Brick + Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black Trim (SW 6258)
A white brick exterior paired with Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258 trim creates a bold, high-contrast look.
The crisp trim outlines windows, doors, and rooflines sharply, making architectural details stand out. This classic pairing works for modern, farmhouse, or transitional homes.
The deep black trim stays rich under different lighting, while the white brick keeps the overall look bright and balanced. It’s a dependable combination for homeowners seeking a clean yet dramatic exterior palette.
2. Warm Gray Brick + Benjamin Moore Simply White Trim (OC-117)
Warm gray brick with Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117 trim offers a soft, timeless contrast.
The light trim highlights edges gently, giving a welcoming appearance without harshness. This combination works well for traditional and contemporary houses alike.
The neutral base keeps the look grounded, while the bright trim adds clarity and freshness. It’s especially appealing for homes with stone or wood accents, since Simply White balances warm gray brick while keeping the overall exterior cohesive.
3. Charcoal Brick + Sherwin-Williams Alabaster Trim (SW 7008)
Charcoal brick with Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW 7008 trim creates a striking but approachable exterior.
The deep brick color anchors the house, while the soft, warm white trim brightens outlines and softens the contrast. This pairing suits modern, industrial, or farmhouse designs.
Alabaster’s gentle undertone prevents the trim from feeling stark, which helps maintain a welcoming atmosphere even with dark brick. It’s a versatile choice that delivers a crisp yet balanced look on any brick home.
4. Red Brick + Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain Trim (2134-30)
Red brick with Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain 2134-30 trim offers a rich, grounded palette.
The deep gray-brown trim frames windows and doors, adding definition without overpowering the red brick. This pairing feels strong yet classic, fitting for historic or traditional houses.
Iron Mountain’s muted undertone holds steady under varying light, ensuring consistent curb appeal. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a deep, sophisticated trim shade that works seamlessly with warm red brick exteriors.
5. Soft Taupe Brick + Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa Trim (SW 7551)
Soft taupe brick paired with Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa SW 7551 trim creates a gentle, inviting look. The warm off-white trim complements the taupe base without stark contrast, making it perfect for cottages or transitional homes.
Greek Villa adds a subtle glow to window frames, eaves, and doors. This combination works beautifully with natural landscaping and muted accent colors, giving a calm and cohesive exterior that feels bright but still warm and approachable throughout the day.
6. Navy Brick + Behr Polar Bear Trim (75)
Navy brick with Behr Polar Bear 75 trim delivers a striking, nautical-inspired palette. The bright white trim outlines the deep blue brick for a fresh, crisp effect. This combination works well for coastal, modern, or statement-making houses.
Polar Bear’s clean tone highlights windows, doors, and rooflines, making the navy brick appear even richer. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want a bold exterior with clear definition and a touch of classic coastal style.
7. Olive Brick + Sherwin-Williams Pure White Trim (SW 7005)
Olive brick with Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW 7005 trim offers a nature-inspired palette that still feels fresh.
The crisp white trim brightens edges and frames openings, balancing the muted green-brown base. This combination suits homes with gardens or wooded surroundings because it blends naturally while keeping a neat finish.
Pure White’s clean undertone makes architectural details stand out without harshness. It’s a reliable choice for creating a subtle yet distinctive exterior on brick houses.
Quick Picks: Best Brick Paint Colors
- Whites & Off-Whites: Benjamin Moore White Dove, Sherwin-Williams Alabaster, Behr Whisper White
- Greiges & Taupes: Sherwin-Williams Fawn Brindle, Behr Even Better Beige, Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Charcoals & Deep Grays: Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore, Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal, Behr Graphic Charcoal
- Sage & Olive Greens: Behr Muted Sage, Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage, Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage
- Blues: Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray, Sherwin-Williams Naval
These shades perform well outdoors and appear balanced under sunlight or shade. Always sample before deciding.
How to Choose the Right Color for Brick
Pick a shade that fits your house style, surroundings, and upkeep needs, ensuring a balanced and lasting exterior look. Here’s how to pick a brick color that fits your home’s style, surroundings, and upkeep level.
Match Home Style
Think about your home’s age, shape, and overall style before choosing a color. A shade that works with your architecture and meets neighborhood or HOA rules will always look more natural.
The goal is to highlight what’s already beautiful about your home, not compete with it or make it stand out for the wrong reasons.
Coordinate With Roof, Trim, & Mortar
Your roof, trim, and landscaping all influence how paint looks outdoors. A color that complements these details creates balance and flow from top to bottom.
Always test samples beside key features in natural light, morning, afternoon, and evening, to see how tones change throughout the day. This simple step helps you find the most cohesive match.
Consider Maintenance of Light & Dark Colors
Light colors make brick homes look brighter and reflect heat, but they can show dirt or stains more quickly. Dark shades hide marks better but may fade sooner in strong sunlight.
Consider your climate and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with before deciding. The right balance keeps your exterior attractive and easy to maintain over time.
Testing Exterior Brick Paint Colors
Testing paint outdoors helps you see how colors behave in natural light before committing.
- Prep a Clean Area: Wash a small section with mild soap and let it dry.
- Apply Swatches on Different Sides: Paint samples on sunny and shaded walls.
- Check at Different Times of Day: View colors morning, noon, and evening to spot shifts.
- Take Photos: Compare pictures later to see which shade feels most consistent.
Testing this way prevents expensive mistakes and helps you see how the color behaves under real light.
Best Paint Type and Finish for Brick
Choosing the right paint and finish protects your brick while ensuring a smooth, lasting look. Always use breathable masonry or mineral paints, as they let trapped moisture escape and prevent cracking or peeling.
Avoid thick latex coatings, which can seal in water and cause long-term damage to your brick surface. For the best appearance, use a flat or matte finish on walls to reduce glare and hide surface texture.
Reserve satin or semi-gloss finishes for trim, doors, and shutters, where easy cleaning and subtle shine matter most.
Apply two even coats using a sprayer followed by a roller to ensure deep coverage and a consistent, durable result that keeps your brick looking clean and well-protected.
Maintenance Tips for Painted Brick
Keeping painted brick looking fresh comes down to simple, consistent care. Regular cleaning and small touch-ups go a long way in preserving its finish.
- Clean Gently: Wash the brick twice a year with mild detergent and a soft brush to remove dirt and mildew.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for cracks, chips, or peeling paint every season and fix them before they spread.
- Repaint Every 7–10 Years: Refresh the paint when fading appears, especially on lighter shades exposed to full sunlight.
- Avoid Pressure Washers: Use a low-pressure hose or gentle rinse to prevent stripping paint or damaging mortar.
- Control Moisture: Keep gutters clear, redirect downspouts, and trim plants away from walls to prevent moisture buildup.
- Touch Up Promptly: Keep leftover paint for quick fixes to maintain even color throughout the year.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when painting brick.
- Skipping Surface Prep: Painting over dirty or damaged brick leads to poor adhesion, peeling, and a shorter lifespan for the new finish.
- Using Non-Breathable Paint: Sealing moisture inside brick can cause bubbling, cracking, and hidden structural damage over time. Always choose breathable masonry coatings.
- Ignoring Climate-Specific Recommendations: Colors and finishes behave differently in the sun, humidity, and cold. Using the wrong type reduces durability and appearance.
- Not Testing Sample Areas First: Skipping swatches can result in unexpected color shifts and expensive repaints. Always test on multiple walls first.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the most practical exterior brick paint color ideas and shown you how real shades and trim pairings look on actual homes.
You now know how to test colors, match them with your roof and landscaping, and plan a palette that feels right from the street.
Try sampling a few swatches this week and photographing them at different times of day; you’ll be surprised how much easier the decision becomes.
If you’d like more fresh palettes and tips on caring for painted brick, take a look at my other posts. They’ll give you even more ideas to make your exterior feel intentional and lasting.
