How to Cover Exposed Brick in Your House

Exposed brick walls can add a unique charm and rustic appeal to your home, but they may not always align with your desired interior design. If you're looking to cover exposed brick in your house, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll explore various methods to help you transform your brick walls into a cohesive part of your home's decor.

Before we dive into the different ways to cover exposed brick, let's first consider why you might want to do so. Perhaps you're aiming for a more modern or minimalist look, or maybe you're looking to insulate your home better. Whatever your reason, there are several creative and practical solutions to help you achieve your goal.

Drywall Installation

One of the most common methods to cover exposed brick is by installing drywall. This process involves attaching drywall panels to the existing brick wall using screws or nails, followed by taping and mudding the seams, and finally sanding and painting the surface.

Drywall installation offers several benefits. It provides a smooth, seamless surface that's easy to paint and decorate, and it also improves insulation, reducing energy loss through the walls. However, it's a labor-intensive process that requires some DIY skills or professional help.

Preparation and Materials

Before you begin, ensure the brick wall is clean, dry, and free of any loose mortar or debris. You'll need the following materials: drywall panels, drywall screws or nails, drywall tape, drywall joint compound, a drywall sanding screen, sandpaper, and paint.

Measure the wall to determine the size of drywall panels you'll need. Standard panels are 4 feet by 8 feet or 4 feet by 12 feet. Cut the panels to fit the wall using a drywall saw or utility knife, and score the paper backing to make bending easier.

Installation Steps

Start by attaching the drywall panels to the brick wall using drywall screws or nails. Space the screws or nails about 12 inches apart, and drive them in slightly below the surface of the panel. Use a screw gun or hammer for this task.

Once the panels are secured, apply drywall tape over the seams and screw or nail holes. Spread a thin layer of drywall joint compound over the tape using a putty knife. Allow the compound to dry, then apply a second coat. Sand the surface smooth using a drywall sanding screen or sandpaper.

Plywood or Paneling

Another option for covering exposed brick is to install plywood or paneling. This method provides a similar result to drywall but may offer a more rustic or industrial look, depending on the material and finish you choose.

Plywood or paneling can be installed using the same basic process as drywall. However, it's essential to consider the thickness of the material and ensure it doesn't interfere with door frames or other architectural elements. Additionally, you may need to account for the material's expansion and contraction with changes in humidity.

Material Selection

When choosing plywood or paneling, consider the desired look and durability. Plywood offers a smooth, uniform surface, while paneling can provide a more textured or decorative appearance. Popular materials include Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), Hardwood Plywood, and engineered wood products like Oriented Strand Board (OSB).

Select a material with a thickness that works for your application. Thinner materials may be easier to install but may not provide the same level of insulation or durability. Thicker materials can offer better insulation and support for heavy objects but may be more challenging to install.

Installation Steps

Prepare the brick wall by cleaning and drying it, and removing any loose mortar or debris. Measure and cut the plywood or paneling to fit the wall using a circular saw or jigsaw. Attach the material to the wall using screws or nails, spacing them about 12 inches apart.

Fill any screw or nail holes with wood filler, and allow it to dry. Sand the surface smooth, then apply paint or stain to match your desired finish. For a more rustic look, you can leave the material unfinished or apply a clear sealant to protect it from moisture and wear.

Wallpaper or Fabric

For a less permanent and more decorative solution, consider covering exposed brick with wallpaper or fabric. These options allow you to add color, pattern, and texture to your walls while still showcasing the unique character of the brick.

Wallpaper and fabric can be applied directly to the brick surface using adhesive or paste. However, it's essential to ensure the brick is clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could interfere with adhesion. Additionally, you may need to prime the brick surface to improve paint and adhesive performance.

Wallpaper Application

Choose a wallpaper design that complements your home's decor and the desired look for the room. Measure the wall to determine how many rolls of wallpaper you'll need, and cut the paper to fit the wall using a sharp utility knife.

Apply wallpaper adhesive to the back of the paper or the brick surface, following the manufacturer's instructions. Carefully align the paper on the wall, smoothing it out to remove any bubbles or wrinkles. Use a wallpaper brush or roller to press the paper firmly against the wall, ensuring good contact with the adhesive. Trim any excess paper using a sharp utility knife.

Fabric Application

Select a fabric that complements your home's decor and the desired look for the room. Consider using a heavy-duty fabric like canvas or cotton duck, which can withstand the weight and tension of the application process.

Measure and cut the fabric to fit the wall, leaving a few inches of overlap at the edges. Apply a primer or adhesive to the brick surface, following the manufacturer's instructions. Carefully align the fabric on the wall, smoothing it out to remove any wrinkles or bubbles. Use a fabric stretcher or staple gun to secure the fabric to the wall, pulling it taut as you go. Trim any excess fabric using scissors or a sharp utility knife.

When covering exposed brick in your house, it's essential to consider your home's unique character and your personal style. Whether you choose drywall, plywood, wallpaper, or fabric, each option offers a creative and practical solution for transforming your brick walls into a cohesive part of your home's decor. Embrace the process, and enjoy the opportunity to make your house truly your own.