How To Use German Schmear To Update Brick

When it comes to updating brick, people generally place themselves in one of two camps: Paint it white, or leave it be. But those all-or-nothing approaches tend to ignore the numerous other options for refreshing brick, whether it’s your home’s exterior or an interior fireplace. One such technique is called German smear, also known as German schmear or mortar wash. The method involves applying a coat of mortar over the surface to give the brick a facelift. Here’s everything you need to know before giving your brick this centuries-old treatment.

What Is German Smear?

“German smear is a masonry technique that involves applying a thin coat of mortar onto the surface of brick or stone and then smearing it off, leaving behind a textured and whitewashed appearance,” explains Alonzo Perez of Garland, Texas-based Alexander and Xavier Masonry. “This technique has been around for centuries, and it has become increasingly popular due to its ability to add character and charm to homes and buildings—and the HGTV show Fixer Upper.” 

How Does It Differ From Other Washes?

Charleston, South Carolina–based fine artist Emily Pope Harris, who is frequently hired to give historic-feeling personality to new builds, says her clients often request whitewashed brick—without realizing what the terminology actually means.

While German smear relies on mortar for the brick-brightening effect, whitewash involves paint. “A true whitewash is when you thin out white paint with water and you wash it over the brick,” says Harris. “I typically stay away from this, because depending on the color of the brick, you can easily make it look mauve or purple-y if you’re not careful.” Typically, she says, her clients actually want German smear, not whitewash, as it allows for more intentional variation in the coverage of the bricks—so Harris can be choosier in how much brick to leave exposed versus covered up.

Limewash is another method that uses a form of paint to alter the look of brick. It uses a combination of lime, water, and pigment to create an aged appearance. It doesn’t last as long as a smear, and it can be removed after application, before it's cured, if needed. Old limewash is more difficult to remove.

When Should You Use German Smear?

If the brick is ugly or there’s no variation in its color, the German smear technique is a good way to brighten up the brick and make it more attractive, as well as give it a little more worn-in character. 

Sometimes, the best option for updating brick is less involved than a full-on German smear. Harris will often forgo the smearing technique in favor of replacing the original mortar with a fresher, lighter one. “When you’re working with old brick that’s not pretty, it might be the color of the original mortar that is making it look ugly,” she notes. “In those cases, I leave the original brick totally exposed and just change the mortar. That can make all the difference.”

There are also practical scenarios in which German smear isn’t a great idea. “If the brick is painted solid, a mortar wash likely won’t work. The mortar won’t stick,” says Harris.

Perez agrees: “When selecting a brick, it's important to choose one with a rough texture. The more porous and irregular the surface, the better the mortar will adhere to create the desired effect. Bricks that are too smooth or polished are not the best choice.”

Historic brick can also pose a problem, as it’s soft and may crumble. In those cases, the artist recommends hiring a professional to seal the brick to prevent further erosion. Even when historic brick is in good shape, Harris still sometimes advises a light hand: “If it’s really beautiful old brick, I’ve told people not to do anything to it.”

Where Should You Use German Smear?

This technique is often used to update older homes or to give a rustic look to new construction. Give an existing fireplace a facelift, update a brick accent wall, freshen a stone or brick floor, or refinish the exterior of your home with this look. It can soften an outdated color of exposed brick in the kitchen or family room. Once applied, it doesn’t need to be sealed and upkeep is minimal. Just wipe down the surface to remove dirt and dust. Check for cracks and gaps that may require a professional to repair.

What To Know Before Trying German Smear

Homeowners with a fear of commitment may want to steer clear of the smear, as it’s fairly permanent. “Once it’s hardened and cured, you’re going to have to take a chisel and a hammer and an acid remover to get it off,” warns Harris. If you’re struggling to decide if it’s right for your home, try it in a small, discreet place first. That way, if it’s not for you, your decorating experiment is hidden from plain sight.