How To Paint Breeze Blocks

Easy tutorial to beautify your breeze blocks

By Clay Imports

If you're familiar with our products, then you might know about our terracotta breeze blocks. Although the blocks look stunning in their natural clay form, some curious customers have asked how to paint them. In this post, we’ll be going over a quick and easy tutorial on how to paint breeze blocks before installation.

Remember, breeze blocks, like all our clay and terracotta products, are handmade, meaning they can exhibit natural variations which are inherent traits of natural materials like Terracotta. These variations in color, texture and sheen are not defects but rather a natural part of the product. We highly recommend ordering samples before making a final purchase to confirm and appreciate these natural variations in each tile.

REQUIRED MATERIALS

• Dust Brush
• Masonry Paint
• Container big enough to dip the block in 
• Gloves (optional)
  

Breeze blocks can be painted either before or after installation. Be aware that when you paint breeze blocks after installation, you’ll also be painting the cement between the blocks. We will be going over how to paint before installation. This allows for a contrasting tone in your breeze block wall. 

What paint should I use?

The first step is to choose what paint to use. In this tutorial, we use Behr masonry paint. However, there are other options. Just make sure that whatever paint you pick is ready for outdoor use and is suitable for application on brick or other masonry products. 

Although following these steps should result in a durable product, always test a few pieces before painting all of your breeze blocks.

How do I apply the paint?

Before dipping your blocks into paint, make sure that they're completely free of dust and debris. Breeze blocks can either be painted on both sides or a single side. The application method we are using in today’s tutorial is dipping.

We are going to dip the breeze blocks entirely in paint. The advantage of dipping breeze blocks is that it's quicker and easier to fill all the spaces. It is also possible to use a paint brush or paint sprayer. Even if you paint your breeze blocks properly, it’s still possible for them to chip over time.

If your breeze blocks do chip, you will see the contrasting tones in the terracotta red underneath the white paint. Also, keep in mind that you should use construction adhesive to adhere blocks that have been dipped into paint.

How do I paint an already installed terracotta breeze block wall?

First you’ll need to thoroughly clean the wall using a degreaser or detergent such as a concrete driveway cleaner. If your wall is outside, you can spray it down with a water hose. If it’s inside, wipe it with the cleaner and a damp sponge.

Once it’s thoroughly dry, paint it with an airless sprayer. Obviously dip painting won't work and using a brush won’t either due to the block’s crevices. If the paint is “no primer required”, put the paint in the sprayer and spray away. However, make sure to prime your paint before you put it into the sprayer if required.

Finally, we truly understand the importance of taking good care of your breeze blocks, that's why we recommend taking a look at our Clay Care products. These maintenance items have been carefully tested with our products, and they are designed to preserve your tiles' beauty, ensuring their longevity and durability. From sealers to cleaners, purchasing these maintenance items together with your tiles not only simplifies your order but also prepares you to enjoy your tiles for a long time.

Make sure to check out our terracotta breeze block collection online. We recommend viewing samples to best understand the product. We can’t wait to see our terracotta breeze block in your projects!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at contact@clayimports.com.

Disclaimer: since the installation of tile greatly determines the integrity of the project and the tile itself, Clay imports does not warranty this product and is not responsible for dissatisfaction of material following installation. Please inspect all tile upon receipt and notify us immediately if you have any quality concerns. This guide is meant to serve as a general resource. Because each project is unique, consult your tile installer before installing your tile.