What Kind Of Sealer To Use On German Schmear Brick Exteriors?

German schmear is a brick treatment that can be used to update the exterior or interior of a home. It blurs grid lines between bricks, giving them a European or stone-cottage look. This technique is most common on fireplaces, exterior walls, and floors, but can be applied to kitchen backsplashes and masonry mailboxes. To achieve the desired look, bricks should be prepared before using the mortar mix. Using a garden hose can dampen the bricks to enhance their appearance. Masonry contractors and DIYers use German smear to revitalize old brick home exteriors or create a distressed appearance for new faux brick or real bricks.

German smear uses cement-based mortar, which can be mixed with regular exterior masonry paint or a limewash paint. Lime wash penetrates bricks to provide an aged look without adding much texture, allowing the brick to breathe. Paint provides a similar effect.

There are two common materials used for German smear: thin set mortar and tile grout. Mortar is slightly more expensive and requires a correct ratio of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. Quikrete’s Veneer Stone Mortar is recommended for its warm gray color.

Premixed mortar is easier to use than creating your own mortar and ensures consistency. This DIY tutorial covers options for updating bricks, including lime wash, paint, and German smear.