One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that whitewashed bricks are simply white bricks. That’s not quite right. White bricks are white bricks. Whitewashing, on the other hand, is a finish applied over bricks of other colors, creating a translucent effect that lets the original tones show through. Think of it like a white filter over your favorite Instagram photo. It softens the look without erasing what’s underneath.
Whitewashing can be done in two main ways: with mortar or with paint.
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Mortar whitewashing gives a rustic, aged, more traditional feel.
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Paint whitewashing leads to a more modern look.
Let’s walk through a recent project to see how mortar-based whitewashing transformed the floor. In this application, a blend of three separate brick models was used: Whitewashed Flooring Brick, Red Flooring Brick, and Shadow Flooring Brick. That said, what color bricks you use as the background is entirely up to you. The possibilities are wide open.
How to Whitewash Brick (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Brick Layout and Installation
We started by laying the bricks using adhesive mortar. To frame the room, bricks were aligned flat around the edges, creating a clean border. The center was filled with a classic herringbone pattern, a timeless layout that adds visual interest and texture.
Step 2: Full Brick Installation Complete
Once the bricks were set, you can see the rich tones clearly - reds, charcoals, and hints of buff. At this stage, it’s a raw brick surface without grout, giving it a tighter, cleaner line between pieces.
Step 3: Grouting the Floor
We then moved on to grouting with white grout, which fills the joints and secures the bricks in place. This part of the process is crucial. In some whitewashing methods - particularly with mortar based finishes - grouting and whitewashing can be done at the same time, depending on your preferences.
Step 4: Whitewashing Begins
Here, you can clearly see the transition. The right side shows the original tones of the brick, while the left side is partially whitewashed. The whitewashing was done using a mortar-based slurry, creating a weathered, soft look without hiding the brick’s character.
Step 5: Full Whitewashing Completed
With the whitewashing complete, the color tones have mellowed. The reds are softened, and the black bricks blend into the mix with a chalky finish. The end result still highlights the pattern, but now it’s far more subtle and refined.
Step 6: Cleaning and Curing
After the whitewashing dries, the surface is carefully cleaned to remove any loose residue or haze. It's important to let everything cure properly before moving to the final stage.
Step 7: Sealing the Surface
Sealing is the final (and essential) step. It protects the finish, enhances color depth, and makes the floor easier to clean and maintain. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a no-sheen invisible sealant or one with a moderate sheen for a slight reflective finish.
Step 8: The Finished Space
Now the room is fully finished, lived in, and loved. The herringbone floor, softened by whitewashing and sealed for protection, brings warmth and character into this bright, inviting space.
Let's Recap:
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Whitewashed bricks are not white bricks. They are treated bricks with a white overlay.
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Mortar-based whitewashing gives a rustic, antique finish.
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Paint-based whitewashing leans modern and crisp.
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Grouting and whitewashing can be done together or in steps.
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Always seal the surface for durability, stain resistance, and to lock in the look.
If you're planning a whitewashed brick project and need help choosing a method, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to walk you through it!
Photo and Design Credit: Blu Birch Design
Application Credit: CM Tile & Granite
Update - January 8, 2026:
Based on reader requests, we’re adding an example below showing paint-based whitewashing using a diluted paint method. While the earlier example in this article focuses on a mortar-based application with a more rustic, aged character, the paint-based method below results in a cleaner, more uniform, and slightly more modern appearance.
Whitewashed brick using diluted paint